THREE charities are joining forces to provide mental health and wellbeing services across Hampshire. 

Andover Mind is partnering with Havant and East Hants Mind and Solent Mind, and GP surgeries, to give more people access to specialist services and wellbeing centres to continue support in their communities. 

With 50 per cent of people in Hampshire experiencing psychological, emotional or mental health difficulties that significantly affect their day-to-day life. Hampshire County Council and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board awarded the three charities this contract.

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Through one-on-one support and wellbeing related workshops, the three charities can help identify their needs and move towards their goals. 

Daniel, a service user said “Mind has been a massive support through troubling times for me. Emotionally, practically and on many other levels. They have a fantastic range of resources to offer. I feel heard and they have given me the tools to get through each day and have hope for the future. The service is lifesaving and vital. So many doors have been closed to me in the past through lack of understanding of my mental health condition, but at Mind I am supported, and I know I have somewhere and someone to turn to, which has benefitted mine and my family’s lives.”

Within the three charities, there are valuable specialist skills and support services that have previously only been available to those within the charities operating areas. By working together, this specialist expertise can be shared, and support made available across the region. 

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Anne Phillips, Richard Watts and John Wilderspin, directors of Hampshire Mind CIC, added: "We are delighted to be a part of the partnership of Hampshire Minds that has been awarded the contract for mental health and well-being services for the communities of Hampshire. This will mean that all people, be they in the north, south, east, or west of the county will have even better access to the caring and compassionate support we, alongside Havant and East Hants and Solent Minds, have been privileged to provide over more than 30 years."

People can access these services through self-referrals or referrals from professionals. 

As part of the collaborative partnership, new roles will be created including Primary Care Wellbeing Adviser vacancies. These new roles will be advertised throughout September and October. 

For more information visit andovermind.org.uk, easthantsmind.org or solentmind.org.uk.

If you are outside of Hampshire, visit mind.org.uk/information-support/local-minds.