‘Exciting’ Growforward Project in North Devon
Phil Harris, our Community Development Lead for North Devon, has been working across Northern Devon to connect community members with their local mental health supports. As part of his role, Phil has continued his community development work helping the DMHA identify projects and partners in the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector that support wellbeing.
Phil has told us about one of his latest connections with the Growforward Project, a “wellbeing haven & not-for-profit community hub” located in the historic Chelfham Mill, near Barnstaple. As the DMHA’s Community Development Lead, Phil has connected as a sounding board for the wellbeing projects, offering support and advice. This December, Phil helped to decorate the conference room for Christmas events, including a sponsored Christmas tree from the DMHA (see below).
Phil spoke to us about his connectio with the Growforward Project and the excitedment he feels leading into the new year. Phil said “In 2025, we began to liaise with the very exciting Growforward Project at Chelfham Mill in North Devon. Situated just 4 miles outside of Barnstaple in the beautiful Chelfham Valley, the Mill and Viaduct are iconic and have a storied history. The Growforward Project takes this historic location and aims to lovingly restore it with a truly modern approach”.
Working as a Valley co-operative, "The Growforward Wellbeing Project CIC is a not-for-profit community interest company driven by a shared vision: transforming a neglected space into a vibrant community hub". This includes teaming with existing wellbeing and community projects - Hakeford Woods and Root Cause Project - and building a 'Wellbeing Retreat' that will support the local community.
Phil continued, “The vision is truly immense, with Heritage regeneration plans and environmental opportunities also under consideration, alongside the construction of a community Cafe (opening Jan 2026) and a Bistro supporting the burgeoning community”.
“I urge the wellbeing community to continue to support the Growforward team in any way that you can - visit the Cafe as it opens, and find out about the wellbeing walking trails through the woodland. 2026 is going to be an incredible year for the Growforward team and for the wellbeing community in North Devon as this inspiring collective effort comes to fruition.”
For more information, please visit the website: https://www.thegrowforwardproject.co.uk/project-purpose/