The MD Support Centre is thrilled to announce the launch of a new craft and social group, Knitter Natter! Beginning on 30 January 2025, the group will meet on the last Thursday of each month from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at the Centre.
This exciting initiative will be led by lifelong crafter and MD Support Centre service user Clair McHale, who brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm. Clair, who learned to crochet in 2013 and has been knitting since childhood, is passionate about the therapeutic and social benefits of crafting.
More than just crafting
For Clair, crafting is as much about friendship as it is about creating. She says, “Any craft is more fun to do together. It becomes less about the craft and more about the social aspect. It’s nice to get to that comfort level.”
This spirit will shape the Knitter Natter club, which is open not just to MD Support Centre service users but also to carers and family members. It will offer a welcoming space to learn new skills, share ideas, and connect with others.
Clair finds particular joy in making clothing and emphasises how crafting promotes a sense of achievement. She says, “You can take pride in it. Just because you’re in a wheelchair, you can still achieve something. It gives you a sense of purpose.”
Inspired beginnings
The idea for the group emerged after Clair donated a crafted item to the MD Support Centre shop. Vicki, the Head of Reception, suggested starting a crafting social group. Despite being initially hesitant, Clair soon embraced the opportunity to inspire and support others.
Clair’s own journey back to crafting required adaptation. Using innovative solutions like crochet hooks modified with skipping rope handles and makeup sponges – custom-made by her husband – she was able to reignite her passion.
“Twelve months ago, after four years of no creative crafting, I decided I wanted to try to crochet again. But I knew I would need to adapt the hook. One skipping rope handle and a handy husband later, I had an adapted hook,” she explains.
“I also plucked up the courage to join a knitting club, which has a great place for social interaction and knowledge sharing. Twelve months later, and after completing many projects, crochet has enriched my life, giving me a sense of achievement, a friendship group, and a sense of purpose. It is this that I would like to bring to our new knitting and crochet group at MD Support Centre – a group that will offer ideas of how to adapt equipment, learn and share knowledge, and build friendships.”
Join the Knitter Natter club
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or an absolute beginner, Knitter Natter is a welcoming space for everyone. Yarn and hooks will be provided, and adapted tools will be available for those who need them. Participants can also bring their own materials if preferred. The group is free to attend, but we will make a small charge for any materials used.
Come along to learn, create, or simply enjoy the company of fellow crafters. Join us on the last Thursday of every month from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at our Coventry HQ. Let’s knit, crochet, and natter our way to new friendships and creative fulfilment!

Find details about other events happening at MD Support Centre on our Events page.