Publish date: 30 November 2021
Well done to staff at Auden Unit, Hollins Park hospital who have set up the Auden Anglers Association, a fishing club which allows patients to partake in a new hobby.
The club has been set up using donations of secondhand equipment, and with the help of two local fishing venues - Stanners pool in Warrington and Woodhouse farm, who are kindly allowing the group to fish their waters.
Patients are given the opportunity to learn the skills required to catch fish and also how to interact with the public, as well as planning and preparing for the activity by purchasing bait and preparing flasks and sandwiches. The club runs most Fridays, including winter, reflecting the enthusiasm of the members.
The small clubhouse which was initially an old shed full of waste and junk is now used to store the clubs fishing equipment. It also provides a space for meetings and is decorated to reflect this.
A fishing diary is kept by the club secretary who is a patient at Hollins Park.
Pat Donoghue, Step Down Recovery Worker at Auden unit says "The smiles on the faces of patients when they catch is worth all of the effort put in."