Welcome to the Winter / Spring 2025 edition of the Sunderland Talking Therapies Newsletter, a newsletter shaped by people who have used our service. We aim to encourage people to share their stories, experiences, and pass on advice to support others.
Someone submitted these lovely photos they have taken for our newsletter. Winter can be a great time to take pictures to really capture colour.
“Trying new recipes is a breath of fresh air”
Elizabeth informed us of how she is keeping herself well whilst awaiting treatment from our service.
“Baking is a very therapeutic and mindful. It’s one of my favourite hobbies, and trying new recipes is like a breath of fresh air. One of my favourite recipes is school cake, it’s very simple and delicious.”
School Cake – Ingredients
- 180g softened butter
- 180g castor sugar
- 3 eggs
- 180g self raising flour
- 40ml milk
- 2 tsps vanilla extract
For icing:
- 400g icing sugar
- 50ml milk
- Sprinkles
School Cake – Method
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.
- Line and grease a baking tin.
- Beat together the butter and sugar until it is creamy.
- Add in the eggs and self-raising flour.
- Add 2 tsps vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add a splash of milk (40 ml).
- Pour the mixture into lined baking tin.
- Bake 20 mins at 180 degrees.
- Leave to cool for roughly 10 mins.
- Once the sponge has cooled, you can then make the icing. Mix 400g of icing sugar with 50ml of milk until a smooth consistency. Spread out the mixture evenly on top of the sponge. Place the sprinkles on top.
“When it’s been a busy week I like to unwind with a good podcast”
There are some brilliant podcasts to look out for – here are some suggestions from people who have been supported by Sunderland Talking Therapies, and our staff:
- ‘Stompcast’ with Dr Alex George
- ‘On purpose’ with Jay Shetty
- ‘Happy place’ with Fearne Cotton
- ‘How did we get here?’ with Tanya Byron
- ‘How to Fail’ with Elizabeth Day
- ‘Griefcast’ with Cariad Lloyd
Some local groups to try
Creative Seed do everything from yoga and fitness classes to children’s groups.
The Old Rectory have weekly groups and classes. Some are free, others you have to pay for.
Active Sunderland’s Walking Programme has planned, free walks in the local area, lasting around 60-90 minutes.
Lucy Locket Land on Facebook runs a regular knitting group. Usually on a Friday and Saturday, but keep an eye on the Facebook page for details.