The decline in the nation’s mental health is now a constant headline topic – not to mention political hot potato – in the aftermath of the Pandemic.
Problems are spiralling, yet government funding has gone from falling to plummeting.
Good news then, that thanks to a very welcome £5,000 grant from the Dorset Community Foundation, the Water Lily Project in Christchurch can now offer more mental health support to local women in crisis.
The Christian charity, which helps vulnerable women return to independent living, reports a huge increase in demand for its services. Liz Carter, pictured, project manager, explains: “The impact of the Pandemic on well-being has been immense for so many in the community.
“Cut-backs to mental health services for many years have heightened the situation and we’re now really beginning to see the effects of this.
She added: “We’re finding so many more local women seeking help for mental health issues.
“It’s vital that we can offer the right support to help our beneficiaries and this grant will make all the difference.”
The charity is planning a nine-month programme that will target the reduction of stress, anxiety and the symptoms of depression.
It will also be implementing ‘Happiness’ programmes to improve interpersonal skills, increase resilience, self-care, self-esteem and confidence and will be looking at the benefits of creative hobbies with a special art therapy course.

by Lorraine Gibson