To mark World Mental Health Day, several of our services organised community events to engage with the individuals we support.

Our Easington Employment Service held a 'Halloween themed' arts and crafts session, led by an individual who accesses the service. The items that were made by attendees will be sold at local community centres, with proceeds being donated to the Seaham Elderly and Isolated Luncheon Club to help pay for a singer at their Christmas party. The club was started by one of the women who attended the event, after our team supported her to secure a voluntary placement at Seaham Youth and Community Centre.

Additionally, our Brighter Futures Employment Team volunteered at St Cuthbert's Hospice in County Durham. They helped clear leaves and tidy the entrance and patient garden area. The service has developed a good relationship with the Hospice over many years, supporting several individuals to volunteer there in various roles including gardening, retail, and in the kitchen.

Finally, our Gateshead Floating Support service attended the Gateshead Clubhouse on World Mental Health Day, bringing tea, cakes and MHM pens. They took the opportunity to chat to people about their mental health and how the MHM services in the area could support them.