Okehampton Community Recreation Association (OCRA) is offering regular space in its Pavilion Lounge to peer led groups in Okehampton.
The space is available each Thursday at 10:30am for one hour and they currently host two monthly groups, with two more launching in the new year!
The peer support groups OCRA currently support are for those living with Parkinson’s and for Stroke survivors, plus their carers, family and friends. This work is being supported by West Devon CVS.
West Devon CVS are a West Devon based charity which supports the set-up of local Peer support groups. These groups connect people in the community who come together to share experiences, creating space for honest conversation, practical help and mutual understanding. Built on friendships and fun, they are a safe and supportive space to try things again, to learn more about the condition, self-care and to build your confidence. The aim is to provide a welcoming space for a coffee and a chat with someone who truly gets it.
January 8th sees the launch of a peer support group for those affected by and those living with cancer is being launched with the help of West Devon CVS Community Builder Lisa Smith from West Devon CVS. Lisa said; “I’m so excited about the OCRA’s Pavilion in the Park being used as a Peer Support Hub on Thursdays, it is great to work with a charity as community minded as OCRA and builds on the success of the Okey Memory Café”.
Completing the peer support hub is a group for those living with Diabetes, starting on 5th February 2026
OCRA General Manager Ian Blythe said “The sessions are about providing each other with mutual support and understanding, this extends to partners, carers, friends and family. Shared experiences are vital as it is often easier to cope when you know others who are in a similar situation, this makes peer support invaluable. Regular sessions mean that a routine can be formed and hopefully looked forward to!”
The sessions will follow the patten each Thursday in the month:
1st Thursday Diabetes
2nd Thursday Cancer
3rd Thursday Stroke
4th Thursday Parkinson’s
For more information visit www.ocrasport.org.uk