New mental health project is launched in town

An initiative to offer free mental health training to community groups and small businesses is being launched in Aylsham.
Broadland District Council’s Mindful Towns and Villages (MTV) project wants to create a network of trained Wellbeing Champions throughout the district.
The council, alongside the Norfolk and Suffolk Foundation Trust’s Wellbeing Service and Thriving Workplaces, will run a series of four training sessions for the communities involved.
The project, which is being launched in Aylsham this month before it is rolled out across the district, is being funded by the Health and Wellbeing Board at the Department of Health.
Cllr Fran Whymark, Broadland District Council’s cabinet member for Wellbeing, said: “Since the outbreak of the Covid 19 pandemic, the NHS has experienced record demand for mental health services.
“This project not only raises awareness of mental health issues and challenges the associated stigma, but will also help to ensure that immediate support is available in the community and in the workplace.
“With one in four adults and one in ten children experiencing mental illness, there has never been a greater need for such a service.
“By creating these Wellbeing Champions, we are throwing a lifeline to those suffering from mental illness and also to their families and friends who may need support too.”
The council’s help hub will be on hand to support all the newly-created Wellbeing Champions. It will work with Evolve to provide a dedicated mental health support worker to talk through people’s concerns and provide advice on the next steps and the different services available.
Cllr Whymark added: “It’s been reported that one in six workers will experience depression, anxiety or problems relating to stress at any one time, so if you are an employer, this training could really benefit you, your staff and your customers.”
All organisations that take part in the initiative will receive branding to recognise their commitment and training.

For more information, see www.southnorfolkandbroadland/gov.uk/MindfulTowns