.png)
WHAT WE OFFER
PEER SUPPORT
Connection, creativity and belonging is at the heart of what we offer...
In all our groups we provide a warm, welcoming and safe space to meet and share with others. As human beings, we each have an inbuilt desire for connection and belonging. Social connection can help us to regulate our emotions, lower anxiety and depression, and boost our self-esteem, and it can also provide the hope and encouragement needed to help get us through difficult times.
Each of our volunteers have a deep understanding of mental health either through their own lived experiences, or through caring for others. It's important to note that our volunteers are not health professionals and are unable to offer any therapeutic advice, however we are here to sit with you when things are difficult, and walk with you as you find new tools and skills, to support your wellbeing moving forward.
You can meet the team here
CREATIVITY
We use creativity in our drop-in groups mainly to promote and support positive wellbeing. Creativity opens up a world of opportunities for mindfulness and as a way of expressing emotions.
Research: how arts can help | Mental Health Foundation
We have a wide selection of activities to chose from, and we will also encourage and support you to try new crafts and build skills by holding workshops and providing the right materials for any creative interests you might have.
SUPPORT NETWORKS AND SIGNPOSTING
We understand its not always easy asking for help and support, but we can help you to connect with other local services or voluntary organisations who may be able to provide further support to help you.
Building a support network of friends, family and local services can have such a benefit on our mental health, especially in reducing isolation. For more information on this, we have included a useful link:
The Importance of Having a Support System - Mental Health First Aid
WHAT TO EXPECT
We welcome people from all different backgrounds, and whatever your circumstance, we are here as a non-judgemental, warm and friendly welcoming group.
When you first attend, we will explain to you a little about us, and what you might be hoping to get from the group.
We operate on a drop-in basis and you do not need to attend every week... Some people come along just to craft, others may just want a chat and emotional support.
We appreciate it can take a while to form relationships, and we will support you as much as we can to make it easier, and also encourage you to get to know other members.
MOVING FORWARD
There is no time limit on how long you can use the service, however we will review this with you on a regular basis to ensure the group is working for you and how we could make it better.
Our aim is to empower you to live a meaningful and purposeful life and build our a strong support network around you, and we understand we may be a part of that for a little while.
You may have found that by attending our groups, you would like to volunteer with us, or possibly run some craft activities or to support others in the group. We welcome, encourage and will support you with this.
CONFIDENTIALITY
We do not share any personal information about yourselves, unless we have a genuine concern for the safety and wellbeing of yourself or someone else. In these instances, we will always talk to you first.
