I've not personally been to one of Your Voice's meet-ups yet but it's definitely on my list to do so. The Cornwall based Community Interest Company host fortnightly women's support groups in locations across the county.
They say: 'Our groups offer a safe, relaxed & confidential space for women to meet and support one another. The atmosphere is informal & whilst we gently encourage members to talk – there is no pressure. Some people find it comforting to just be amongst others who are on a Mental Health journey."
You can view current groups on their website.
The organisation was founded by Natasha, who shares a little of her own mental health journey on the website. She combines her charity sector and retail experience to create the CIC that is helping women across Cornwall. Like many peer-support and community-run groups, Your Voice doesn't offer formal mental health interventions, but facilitators could signpost people in the right direction if needed. The power of groups like this is sharing a supportive space before crisis stage. They list these important helplines, which are always worth sharing:
MIND: 0300 123 3393 (24hrs) www.mind.org.uk
The Samaritans: 116123 (24hrs)- www.samaritans.org
The Silver Line ( helpline for older people): 0800 470 8090 (24hrs) www.thesilverline.org.uk
This year, Your Voice also has a pop-up shop in Helston to raise money for the work they do:
As well as buying from the shop, there are a number of ways that you can help, including donations, sharing on social media, wearing merchandise and sharing your expertise. More detail of how to get involved can be found at: www.yourvoicecornwall.org.uk/how-you-can-help-us