A space to create, collaborate and share

Launched in 2022, The Hobby Hub promotes traditional hobbies that range from painting and scale modelling, to sculpting and wargames, textile work and state-of-the-art 3D printing.

Having a hobby can be beneficial for your mental health in several ways. First, engaging in a hobby that you enjoy can provide a sense of enjoyment and fulfillment, which can improve your overall mood and reduce stress. Hobbies can also serve as a distraction from daily worries and help you relax and unwind, which can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

In addition, hobbies can provide a sense of accomplishment and mastery, which can boost self-esteem and confidence. They can also provide a sense of purpose and meaning, which can give your life direction and help you feel more fulfilled.

Furthermore, hobbies can provide social benefits by giving you the opportunity to connect with others who share similar interests. This can help you develop new friendships and support networks, which can provide a sense of belonging and social support.

Overall, having a hobby can be a valuable addition to your mental health routine and can help you lead a happier and more fulfilling life.

Traditionally hobbies are practised in isolation, often the stereotypical label of ‘Men in Sheds’ or ‘Ladies in their craft rooms.’ The hobby hub plans to smash through these stereotypes by offering a space for all, no matter difference, to come together to collaborate, create and be part of a community of like-minded individuals. We are also here to help those who are yet to find ‘Their Hobby’ and discover the endless possibilities and benefits that hobbies have to offer.

Hobby Hub Sessions

Hobby Hub sessions are currently scheduled for Thursday evenings between 3pm and 8pm at the Social Echo premises in Eagle Park, Yaxley. The evening sessions are free to attend and include refreshments, a warm welcoming environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared safely. Additional sessions will be announced soon. 

The Hobby Hub is a project run by a not-for-profit social enterprise and relies entirely upon grant funding and donations to operate. In return we provide free sessions and training for our users.

Although we have fantastic support from our partners from the private, voluntary and public sectors, we welcome monetary donations and donations of supplies and equipment. If you are able to help us, please do get in touch.

Huntingdonshire District Council

From the age of 13 I have faced significant lived experience of mental health challenges, being formally diagnosed with a serious mental illness. I have tried many therapies, medications and techniques, all to varying levels of success, but one thing that has been a driving force in my mental health recovery and a catalyst in said journey has been my passion for my hobbies. I am a keen railway modeller and all round creative and this has given me head space to express myself, practise mindfulness and seek the scientifically proven benefits that hobbies have to offer.

Ollie Ayres

Manager, The Hobby Hub