Ripple Project Complete! A new detox room for Change, Grow, Live in Norwich.

Our first 'Ripple' Work Experience Project of 2025 is complete and what a way to start the year!

Over the past eight weeks, our group of participants have been busy redesigning the detox room at the Change, Grow, Live offices in Norwich, working to create a relaxing and comfortable space for those taking part in alcohol detox retreats.

Led by Andrew Self from Red Hammer Maintenance, the group did everything in the room from the initial design and budget to painting, decorating, sourcing accessories and even carpentry, building a new wooden table for the room.

The group did a fantastic job, adding lots of personal touches and calming features such as a textured ivy wall, homemade artwork, motivational quotes and a water feature. Every detail was carefully planned even the books in the reading area, which were carefully sourced by one of the team to make sure there was something on the shelf for everyone!

These projects are a vital part of the work of Rippleacts as they help to develop teamworking skills and foster wellbeing amongst our participants. We had an incredible 100% attendance rate over the eight weeks which is a testament to the leadership given by Andrew and the value of these groups in motivating and developing consistent working patterns. Feedback from the group showed that all of the participants had gained confidence throughout the project which is a fantastic result. The group have gone from strangers to friends, with many choosing to stay in touch and there were even talks of setting up their own renovation businesses!

One of our participants said:

"I enjoyed doing the course, I met some great people and learnt some new skills. It was a positive experience for me. I feel proud of the work we have done."

Our Ripple Projects are very special in that they teach our participants vital skills whilst also helping local causes. If you are a local non-profit organisation that has a project we can help with please get in touch!

A huge thank you to the Norfolk Community Foundation for supporting our Rippleacts projects through the Love Norfolk Fund.