A Community Project set up to support parents and carers of children with mental health difficulties has received vital funding that will enable them to purchase a number of self-help booklets and group resources.
Lancashire Positive Minds is currently the only group in the South Ribble area that shares strategies, advice and guidance for parents and carers whose children struggle with mental health difficulties.
Children may be suffering from things such as depression, anxiety, autism, suicidal thoughts or eating disorders and our donation of £500 will allow the group to purchase resources such as leaflets, action plans and journals that parents can use with their children at home.
Susie Marsden, founder of the group that started on social media says parents and carers come together to talk and gather tips to deal with various situations at home: “Within a five-week period of starting the group, we ended up with over 70 members and we are currently supporting over 180 local families. In March 2020, we commenced with face to face meetings and South Ribble Borough Council have very kindly paid rent and bills on a venue to support the meetings. The venue can hold up to 150 people.”
The group usually hold monthly face to face meetings, and during the various lockdowns they have also offered regular virtual sessions; scheduling Zoom sessions and guest speakers. Susie is aiming to continue to offer virtual sessions until lockdown eases but virtual support will continue.
“We are also working alongside Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services so the groups are parent- led but professionally supported,” Susie adds.
“Parents often feel alone and isolated when guiding their children through difficult times and through facilitating parents with strategies and tips to use at home, this will also ease pressure on the professional services but give that early intervention.”
Lancashire Positive Minds is one of twelve groups and good causes that have shared £5000 from our Leyland community fund. These funds are set up to provide support to communities close to where they build.
Sian Pitt, sales director for Lancashire adds: “This group is vital in providing support to those who need it most so they can help members of their family through challenging circumstances.”
For more details about Worden Gardens, see www.redrow.co.uk/wordengardens, call 01772 340818 or visit the sales centre, open daily.
