Tok Pod Shelter raises awareness of mental health issues

Two sisters have succeeded in their ambition to install a shelter at Aboyne Academy to help raise awareness of mental health issues.  

Leanne Duncan and Teresa Broere, who own a corner shop in Aboyne called The Paper Girls, started raising funds for the project in 2023.

They are pictured below with pupils at the grand opening.

An incredible £11,000 was collected through fundraising events including strawberry teas, quiz nights, film nights, a postbox topper and singalongs helping them reach their target. 

The four-person orb, known as a Tok Pod, was provided by The Meeting Pod Company based in the Isle of Wight, and provides a comfortable and safe place for pupils to chat, relax and connect with each other. 

The area around the pod has been landscaped and is safeguarded by CCTV.

Leanne Duncan said: “As our own teenagers were struggling with the pressures and stress of their workloads and friendships the decline of their mental health was becoming very apparent.  

“We decided to help create an area within the school grounds for all pupils where there was space to breathe away from the stresses of the classroom.” 

Teresa Broere added: “We would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all our customers, donators and committee for their generosity and for believing in this project.” 

Head Teacher at Aboyne Academy Michael Foy said: “We have been delighted to see this project come to fruition. We are very grateful for all the hard work from Leanne and Teresa and everyone who has supported this project. 

“At Aboyne Academy we are committed to supporting the wellbeing of everyone in our school community. This development provides a unique and innovative safe space for pupils to spend quality time together.”