Celebrations took place yesterday (28 June) to mark the official launch of Solihull’s new mental health drop-in service for residents aged 18 and over.
Run by Mental Health Matters on behalf of Solihull Council, the service offers one-to-one support and group sessions, seven days a week, from community locations in north, central and south Solihull.
Since opening in April this year, the drop in service has already welcomed around 80 people and provided support on issues ranging from self-care to budgeting and laptop lessons.
Cllr Tony Dicicco, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, joined the launch at Chelmsley Wood Town Council, one of the three drop-in venues. He said:
“It’s great to see so many people already coming along. And I’ve heard first-hand the difference that this friendly and welcoming service is making. It’s somewhere people can come to get support, share their stories and feel less isolated.
“Having drop in sessions at different locations around the borough means support is closer to home and is helping people feel part of their local community.
“You don’t need to be referred by your GP or another professional and there’s no commitment to come along every week. This service is about helping people with their personal recovery and getting back on their feet.”
Brian, a long standing community volunteer, joined the drop-in service in April. His role includes welcoming people and making them feel comfortable.
“I enjoy helping people,” Brian explains. “It makes me happy and keeps me busy. I have made good friends through volunteering and it’s good to see them each week.”
Jane Hughes, CEO of Mental Health Matters, added:
“I’m delighted to see how impactful the community drop-in has been in its first few weeks.
It is fantastic to be able to hold face-to-face events again and connect with our volunteers and service users. Events like this are vital to ensure our service continues to meet local needs”.
Sessions take place at three community locations: Solihull Methodist Church, LAYCA Community Centre in Shirley and Chelmsley Wood Town Council.
The full drop-in timetable is available directly from the service or online at www.mhm.org.uk/solihull-drop-in-timetable