A series of drop-in sessions focusing on mental health are underway at Whitehaven's Senhouse Centre, part of an innovative initiative to boost wellbeing across the Copeland area. The sessions, scheduled for this month and next, precede the launch of the Hope Haven hub on King Street, which will serve as a central point for wellbeing support.
The initiative is spearheaded by Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, with the involvement of David Storm, associate director for access and community services. The project aims to reach not only those in Whitehaven but extend its support throughout the Copeland area.
"This is just the very start of the wellbeing support we'll be starting to offer, not only in Whitehaven but around the whole Copeland area." – David Storm
To address the needs of hard-to-reach areas, some activities have hit the road, with mobile sessions operating daily. Recent weeks have seen these sessions held in Gosforth, with further plans to reach other parts of Copeland, including Seascale, Calder Bridge, and Lamplugh.
"It's all about getting out into the community and speaking to people, especially in hard-to-reach places." – Phil Stout
This comprehensive approach involves various groups offering mental health services, assistance with housing, financial concerns, and addiction recovery. Notably, many participants in these sessions are women aged between 60 and 80, highlighting the program's reach and effectiveness.
The iCan organisation plays a pivotal role in this initiative by providing help with fitness and wellbeing issues. They are set to join partner groups at the future Hope Haven location, a former bank in Whitehaven town centre. This new hub aims to become a beacon of support in the community.
"Look out for our distinctive green and purple Hope Haven birds, based on the wonderful guillemots at St Bees Head." – David Storm
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