Growforward Wellbeing Project

The Growforward Wellbeing Project CIC is a not-for-profit community interest company, founded by a group of dedicated individuals passionate about transforming the derelict site into a thriving hub for the community. Our founders and team bring a wealth of experience, including:

• A former pupil of Chelfham Mill School, now a wellbeing coach, helping those impacted by the school’s past to heal.
• A descendant of long-time staff members who lived and worked at the school.
• A former pupil of another similar boarding school, with a passion for providing wellbeing services to neurodivergent adults, particularly young adults with ADHD, dyslexia, or autism, who often lack support after leaving school.
• A local NHS psychological wellbeing practitioner, studying for a doctorate.
• An experienced construction foreman.
• A former Pizza Express-trained manager and chef overseeing the café.
• A psychotherapist supervisor, a mindfulness facilitator, and a range of tradespeople contributing to the redevelopment.

What We’re Creating

The project will revitalise the old boarding school and watermill, turning them into a multi-functional space with three core elements:

• Wellbeing Retreat & Learning Centre: This residential facility will offer a space for personal growth and development, while also providing opportunities to gain career-enhancing qualifications. We will offer training, up to degree level, in areas such as counselling and psychotherapy, equipping participants to deliver these services themselves. Through a combination of theory, practice, and diverse modalities, the centre will address today’s pressing need for personal wellness, happiness, and peace of mind.
• Riverside Retreat Bistro: In tribute to the site’s history, we’ll open ‘The Old Apple Press’ bistro, named after the cider press once used in the mill house. The bistro will provide catering for course participants and will also be open to the public, meeting the community’s need for a local hospitality venue in an area with limited options.
• Heritage Centre: The centre will celebrate the history of the Chelfham Mill School site and the Grade II listed Chelfham Viaduct which runs over part of the site. It will also showcase the heritage of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway, whose Chelfham station is located just across the road.

Why This Project Matters

Our mission is to turn a site long associated with sadness and neglect into a positive, vibrant destination. We aim to make it a centrepiece for wellbeing, community connection, and personal growth, whilst preserving its heritage. By involving the local community, we will transform this once-abandoned site into a place of healing and opportunity.