HISTORY & IMPACT
The foundations, purpose and effectiveness of Restore
HISTORY - SINCE 1977
ONE OF THE MOST LONG ESTABLISHED AND HIGHLY-REGARDED SERVICES OF ITS KIND
Vision
Working towards a time when people experiencing mental ill health are fully empowered and supported to live fulfilling lives.
Mission
To provide recovery and coaching support to people with mental health problems whilst working in the community to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.
1977
Founded when occupational therapy in a clinical setting was not having desired impact. Revolutionary approach began with gardening group at Littlemore Hospital.
1985
Restore had four groups in Oxford, with three at Cowley Road (printing, woodwork and retail). Most of the individuals were hospital inpatients moving back into the community.
1989
Horticultural activities were transferred to a new site at Elder Stubbs Allotment, marking the beginning of the end for reliance on the institutional environment of the hospital.
2005
Restore's services expanded into Oxfordshire with the Didcot recovery group on a two-acre allotment site. Activities include horticulture, arts and crafts and woodwork.
2008
Restore's Garden Café opened with members serving the public homemade food and developing skills in hospitality and catering.
2010
A new project in Banbury, North Oxfordshire. The Orchard group offers support to individuals across the north of the county.
2015
Restore is a key partner in Oxfordshire Mental Health Partnership (OMHP) bringing mental health expertise together and improving access to services.
Now
Restore has transformed the lives of thousands of vulnerable adults, providing services free of charge across Oxfordshire.
VALUES
Recovery
Enabling people to recover from illness and manage their own mental
health and wellbeing.
Support
Providing the opportunities to help ourselves and each other.
Hope
Offering a positive future where everyone can fulfil their potential.
Empowerment
Helping people to believe in themselves and what they can achieve.
Respect
Accepting without judging as each person is unique.
"To a very large extent, Restore has given me purpose, helping me to see there is a reason for going on, for continuing the struggle. Forcing me to face and overcome fears... it is a safe space where I am valued and wanted."
IMPACT
Individuals in recovery groups
Sessions attended last year
Mental Health first aiders trained
Coachees supported into employment
feel better able to develop a routine
Annual Review 2024
Annual Review 2023
Annual Review 2022
Restore benefits thousands of people each year, directly and indirectly, with around 2,000 course attendees each year at the Oxfordshire Recovery College and 1,000 people attending professional mental health courses a year, with several hundred becoming Mental Health First Aiders.
There are 5,600 attendances at Recovery Group sessions per year with over 500 individuals benefiting from membership. Restore’s members develop positive habits with 86% reporting that they feel well supported and empowered through Restore's services.
Members are equipped with skills and tools to progress with their own goals. Around a third of members receive coaching from specialists who support them towards their goals in practical ways, such as CV preparation. 41% of coachees progressed into a vocation last year.
EXPLORE
LATEST
Discover Restore's news, blogs, upcoming events, activities and courses, across Oxfordshire.
BACKGROUND
Founded in 1977, Restore supports hundreds directly each year with excellent outcomes.
PEOPLE
Meet the executive team and trustees. Learn about Oxfordshire Mental Health Partnership.
CONTACT
Either use a short forms dotted around the website or make contact with Restore here.