One in four of us will experience mental ill health during the course of lives. Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement or Stress can affect the way we think, feel or behave. For some, mental health problems come and go throughout their lives. For others problems can be more severe and enduring. For increasing numbers, getting older means the onset of illnesses that affect mental health.

Such difficulties can have a profound effect on relationships or work. The onset of mental ill health can be difficult not just for the individual but for their family, friends and work colleagues as well.

However mental ill health is affecting you, Independence Trust can help.

Our aim is to provide social and emotional support to encourage people to maintain independence and be an active member of the community. We believe that for most there are real possibilities for recovery or improvements in quality of life.

Wellbeing Centres

Our Wellbeing Centres are a place where people can meet, socialise and interact. More than that though, they are a way back into the community.

Each client has their own key worker and their support is tailored to their own needs.

This might include:-

• Support to use local leisure facilities and an allotment.
• Opportunities for creativity and self expression in conjunction with Art-Shape
• Support around budgeting, cooking, healthy living, shopping or form filling.
• Links with local or community colleges and courses delivered on site.
• Support to re-enter employment
• Trips and days out to enjoy.
• One-to-one support.
• Goal setting
• Relaxation classes and anxiety management.
• Links to specialist NHS services
• Links to the National Star College

If you are caring for someone who is experiencing mental ill health then encouraging them to use our wellbeing centres can offer you the chance to rediscover time for yourself.

For information about how to access our services simply click on this link.

The Next Step Project

You may feel excluded because of your problems, and Next Step helps you take part in local activities and make the most of what is available in your local community. This may be the leisure centre or a social club, a community college or sports team, parenting classes or the library. Our staff will help you to build your confidence and to make contact and even go with you the first time. Then we will help you to make the most of the opportunity and to learn about yourself along the way.

For information about how to access our services simply click on this link.

Older Persons Group

This project helps you to keep your independence and to live at home. The group provides friendship and social contact to help improve your quality of life. It also helps your family and friends to find some time for themselves.

We can introduce carers to other services that can be of help including advocacy services.

Our client group includes those suffering from a range of mental health conditions including dementia, depression & anxiety

Members come together to enjoy a two-course lunch and a range of activities and outings. These can include:

• Flower arranging
• Art and craft – silk painting, papier mache, mosaic, collages
• Reminiscence
• Gentle exercise
• Relaxation
• Quizzes
• Word games
• Bingo
• Singing
• Men’s Group

We have links with the local colleges were you can develop new skills and interests

For information about how to access our services simply click on this link.

Community outreach project - GL11

This project operates out of Cam community centre and is for women experiencing mental health issues. We use art as a way of building self-esteem and confidence and reducing anxiety, but the project is mainly an opportunity for socialising with others.

At the same time, we offer a safe place where you can share your concerns and feel supported and encouraged to look forward and set achievable goals. Many return to education, training or employment.

There are free crèche facilities available with experienced and qualified staff.

For information about how to access our services simply click on this link.