1 minute read
New mental health support sessions
Coffee events help with wellbeing
ADULTS struggling with their mental health, addictions and daily wellbeing can now talk through their issues and find solutions over a fortnightly cup of coffee in Poole.
Coffee Connection – a drop-in support hub at Serenitea Café on Ashley Road – is run jointly by Dorset HealthCare’s Poole Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) and Dorset’s Essential Drug and Alcohol Services (EDAS).
The Thursday evening sessions take the form of a ‘talk and share’ supper group, hosted by a qualified therapist who provides expert input, with discussions and a range of activities designed to support self-care. There are also opportunities to hear from speakers and undertake training which can lead to qualifications.
The project is the brainchild of CMHT leader Lulu Dajani and Michele Lyall, deputy chief executive at EDAS.
And it became a reality after earning funding support through Dorset HealthCare’s annual staff innovation competition,
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Lulu said: “Since we started Coffee Connection in the spring, it has already benefited and motivated many adults in Poole who are experiencing problems with mental health.
“Daily wellbeing has improved for those who struggle to prioritise things and can end up feeling overwhelmed.
“Some have signed up to other courses about health and wellbeing and mixing with other members of the community, while others completed training to develop their sense of purpose and self-confidence. There is something for everyone.”
Participants have not only gained confidence, made new friends and reduced their social isolation, but some have gained accredited qualifications.
Adults under the care of Poole CMHT can attend. Anyone interested who is not under mental health care can book a place on 01202 733322 or by emailing michele.lyall@ edasuk.org.
