A Batley church is hosting a support group that meets weekly to offer people a new way to look after their mental wellbeing in a non-clinical, confidential and friendly setting.
The national charity PeerTalk is behind the initiative and aims to set up a national network of peer support groups to offer support to those living with depression and related mental health conditions.
And it has just set up a meeting place in All Saints Church, Batley every Wednesday afternoon from 1.30 -3pm. The vicar, the Revd Martin Naylor has welcomed the initiative.
He said: “At this time of raised awareness of mental health issues nationally, it is great news that a new peer support group to boost mental health has been launched in Batley.
“I have witnessed first hand the strength and healing power of peer support groups, where those living with depression and related mental health issues offer help from their own experience.
“Here at All Saints, we are proud to be part of this, he added.
Research shows that one in four people experience mental health difficulties at some time in their lives regardless of age, gender or background. And depression is a very common condition.
Rosa Trelfa, director of the national charity PeerTalk, said: “The strength of these peer support groups lies in the fact that the support offered comes from others who have a lived experience of depression, who understand, who will not judge, and who can offer help from their own experience.
“At PeerTalk we recognise the need to share, to create the space where people will be heard and accepted and know that it’s okay not to be okay."
PeerTalk is every Wednesday afternoon at The Community Room, All Saints Church on Stocks Lane, from 1.30pm and 3pm. Just turn up. No need to register or make an appointment to attend the support group. All welcome.
See www.peertalk.org.uk/index.php/support-groups for more details.