Practical Intelligence
Everyone should have the chance to learn and belong
Learning new skills, helping others, and being part of a group can make us feel happier and like we belong. That’s why Practical Intelligence runs the Nailsworth Community Workshop.
The workshops teach crafts, like woodwork, and help people learn practical skills. They are for people with mental health conditions, disabled people, people looking for work and people recovering from using drugs or alcohol. The workshops aim to build confidence, give people a sense of purpose and help to improve mental wellbeing.
What our funding has been used for
In 2021, Practical Intelligence started a project called Pi Guitars, where volunteers help build guitars. These guitars are made from recycled and locally sourced wood. Finished guitars are sponsored and donated to music charities that promote mental health.
The funding from Barnwood Trust has allowed Pi Guitars to continue running for another year and buy new machines and tools. With these, they were able to make 6 new guitars.
They have welcomed 20 regular volunteers to the project, and they hope to inspire more people to join. To say thank you to the helpers, they have used some of the funding to host a live recording session, inviting local musicians to come together for an evening to record music.
This is what a volunteer had to say about their time on the project:
“Thank you for the last 15 weeks of workshops. I have been reflecting on my recovery. The welcome, support, chance to try new things, and the sense of community with Pi has had a huge impact on my wellbeing. You have helped boost my confidence and shown me another world outside of corporate life. You are wonderful, compassionate people who make a real difference. A heartfelt thank you.“
In early 2025, Barnwood suggested some charities that could benefit from receiving one of the guitars. One of them was Heart Heroes. In March, Practical Intelligence visited Heart Heroes and gave them a newly finished guitar and a small speaker. We’ll be catching up with them later in the year to find out what they have been using it for.
Looking forward
Practical Intelligence are starting to build a new set of Pi guitars, including a semi-acoustic guitar, which is a little harder to build. It’s a great project for volunteers who have been volunteering with PI for a while and want to try something more challenging.
They are continuing to look for ways to thank their volunteers and help them feel part of a team. Practical Intelligence are planning a local music festival at the end of the Summer to showcase the guitars and play music with local bands and singers.
Organisations like Practical Intelligence don’t just help the people who receive the guitars – they help the wider community, through providing a sense of belonging and purpose. We look forward to seeing what Practical Intelligence builds next and watching their community grow.
