Subscribe to trusted local news
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
- Subscription costs less than £1 a week with an annual plan.
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
05
Dec 2021
Charity Corner: at the forefront of mental health support during covid
The mental health charity Mind in Harrogate district has had two years like no other, with lockdown causing more people to reach out for additional support.
The charity is affiliated with the larger national charity Mind and was founded in 1973.
It offers counselling, a telephone befriending service and numerous group workshops for people suffering with their mental health.
The main aim of the charity is to be the place people come to if they are struggling. Its befriending and counselling services will continue throughout December although during the week between Christmas and New Year, it will only be available for telephone support.
Helen Greensit, centre development manager, said:
This week alone the charity has received five referrals for support, which included telephone support, registration requests to join group activities and referrals to the counselling service.
Read more:
- Chocolate donations wanted for Harrogate district people in need this Christmas
- Local Fund for the Harrogate District awards £85,000 to 29 community groups
Ms Greensit also said lockdown had increased the number of people struggling with social anxiety. She said people coming to the charity were still struggling to go out because they lacked the motivation to do so.
She said:
The charity has nine members of staff and numerous volunteers who help with the befriending service, which works to reach some of the most isolated in the district. Ms Greensit said:
0