Our History
Where We Began
The Quiet Mind Centre was originally founded in 1984 by Bobby Neil (pictured) with the aim of supporting the work of local doctors through the use of complementary therapies. Trained as a nurse, Bobby, at the age of 23, became one of the youngest ward sisters at The Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, managing the largest ward of 40 beds. By the early 1980's, Bobby had become increasingly aware that there was little or no support for patients diagnosed with cancer. In 1984, Bobby set up the CanCope charity to give advice and offer support to people with cancer, persuading local therapists to spare at least half a day of their time to helping those on low incomes.
What Happened Next
By 1991, the charity, now known as The Quiet Mind Centre, extended its scope to treat all conditions which could benefit from the therapies. At that time, The Centre was based in a building which had no disabled access. Reaching full capacity in the Autumn of 2003, the Centre moved to new premises at 14 Hartley Road which were more suitable for the needs of all clients and had disabled access.
Where we are now
Bobby Neil passed away in 2016, following illness from cancer. She dedicated her whole life to caring for others and her legacy will be the community spirit and family feel which still exists at the Quiet Mind Centre. Bobby, and her late husband Stuart, are survived by their daughter, Kate, who forms an integral part of the Quiet Mind team, their son Toby and their five grandchildren. Chloe, the eldest grandchild, has since stepped into the role of Centre Lead.
So far, the organisation has provided over 125,000 hours of treatment to members of the local community.