A Sheffield knitting group is asking for materials to make ‘twiddle mats’ to ease sensory issues and stress.
The knitted creations are designed to help those who also suffer from dementia and anxiety by distracting them with something to fiddle with.
Knit and Natter community coordinator Emily Hearne, 30, said: “Given the cost of living crisis, there are lots of people struggling with their mental health so its really good to take part in something that can make people feel a bit calmer.”
The group was formed as part of Zest, a warm community space in Upperthorpe which runs knit and natter for free on Thursdays between 1:30-3pm.
There are currently more than 25 people working on the project across the Knit and Natter group and the Monday arts and crafts session.
Isobel Beckitt, 53, who came up with the idea, said: “The social aspect of the group has really helped me. I wouldn’t see anyone before and felt very isolated since I had to quit my job due to illness.
It allows us to all pass on our skills and stay active.”
She originally found the idea on Pinterest, with the hope that it would improve other people’s confidence.
Ms Hearne said: “People use arts and crafts for their own mental health as well, so the actual process of making the mat to help someone else’s mental health might also help your own.”
The group are hoping to make as many twiddle mats and fiddle mitts as they can, but their main obstacle is a lack of funding.
Anyone in need will be able to pick up a fiddle mitt from Zest for free.
If anyone has any enquiries they can contact Emily via email: emily.hearne@zestcommunity.co.uk
