SCF_Annual Report_2016/17

16 Annual Report 2016/17
Focus on: Advancing people’s
mental and physical health
£113,482
Value of grants awarded
In Somerset, more than two in every 100 people are in
contact with a mental health service, which is higher than
the average for England. Loneliness and isolation have
a significant effect on our mental health. Many of the
grants we award are designed to reduce these challenges,
particularly in rural areas. A recent study by one of our
grantees, 2BU, also highlighted the impact of homophobia
and investigated the potential impact this has among young
people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender
and questioning (LGBTQ). 85% of the respondents had
either been bullied or had witnessed bullying; 75% reported
deliberate self-harm; and almost 50% had attempted
suicide.
Peer support groups are one way that people with mental
health issues support each other, and a network of peer
support groups exists across Somerset, facilitated by a range
of local community groups and charities.
Case Study: Mind TWS Art
Group in Minehead
Mind in Taunton & West Somerset run
a wide range of groups for people with
mental health issues, and Mind TWS Art
Group in Minehead is one of their support
groups which has been running for the
last six years. Referrals are made to the
group from their local mental health
outpatient unit, with many new members
isolated and in need of contacts in the
community.
At weekly sessions, the group members
develop their art skills and share their
experiences with each other and have now
begun exhibiting their art at local venues.
A grant of £1,025 in March 2016 helped
the group to run throughout the year.