A new wellbeing centre has been opened through a partnership between Changes Health & Wellbeing and North Staffs Mind.
Based in the heart of the Stoke-on-Trent at The Dudson Centre, on Hope Street, the centre will provide an easily accessible, safe space for community members to access a range of activities, all under one roof.
Designed to foster a sense of community and belonging, the Wellbeing Centre will offer a range of spaces including designated quiet areas, group and 1-2-1 spaces.
It will also provide opportunities for service users to connect with others who, through their lived experience of mental health recovery, can offer empathy, understanding, and encouragement.
Wellbeing Centres not only promote recovery and social inclusion but also remove the barriers that many face in accessing traditional health, care and support systems.
It will also offer a range of activities, which are co-produced with service users, including art therapy, organised outings and music and drama groups, which are designed to promote recovery and wellbeing.
Lisa Healings, CEO and Finance Director of VAST, said: “We are excited that the Wellbeing Centre will be based within The Dudson Centre, in the heart of the local community. It will provide an easily accessible, welcoming space for service users who will be able to access a range of activities and support, all under one roof.
“We are pleased to have worked with Changes and North Staffs Mind to be able to facilitate The Wellbeing Centre, which will bridge the gap in service provision and support for those experiencing mental distress.”
Kate Boundy, of North Staffs Mind, said: “We were concerned about the gap in provision that the closure of the clubhouse network would result in and have been delighted to be able to demonstrate just how versatile and collaborative local charities can be by working with Changes and the Coalfields Regeneration Trust to create a new offer in a really short timescale.
“We are particularly excited to be able to offer the services within The Dudson Centre right in the heart of the local community – easily accessible by public transport.
“We will continue to listen carefully to service users to ensure that the activities and support offered meets their needs both now and in the future.”
The Wellbeing Centre is open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.00pm.
