Motivated by supporting mental wellbeing in their local community, The Friendship Club in Peterborough hosted a Bank Holiday Craft Day on Monday 30th August at the Focus Centre. The event, their first of 2021, was made possible by the commitment of volunteers and a grant of £500 from our Good Life Fund.
As part of our Good Life Service at CPSL Mind, the Good Life Fund encourages people in our local community to apply for grants of up to £500 to help set up groups that connect people or share new skills. The Friendship Club was a recipient of funding to support their goals of preventing loneliness and to promote positive wellbeing.
Led by Kerry Cooper, who formed The Friendship Club, this Craft Day was developed in memory of a friend who died from suicide. In addition forming new friendships whilst enjoying crafts, music and cake, the event also focused on opening up conversations about mental health and suicide awareness.
Kerry commented “After the misery of the Covid lockdowns, so many people in our community had really slipped into isolation and feeling incredibly lonely. After seeing a funding opportunity, I contacted CPSL Mind and within 24 hours I received an email from Allan Hughes who immediately loved what I had planned and has been super supportive throughout the funding process. I was thrilled that we could gain the £500 funding to put on a fantastic day for so many people who really needed to mix again.”
Allan Hughes, who manages our Good Life Fund at CPSL Mind, commented, “We thought this would be a great opportunity to raise awareness on mental health and wellbeing and, in particular, suicide. After a tough year it was a great way for people to reconnect with others in the community while enjoying some crafting activities, music and refreshments together.
The event has led to more people knowing about the Good Life Fund in the area and also the services we offer at CPSL Mind. We hope it becomes an annual event!”
Find out how you can apply for the Good Life Fund.
