Torquay support meet-ups to continue after success

A support group has decided to hold more regular meetings in Torquay after a successful turnout to its first get together.

The Working Minds event was held to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week at the Bank in the town. 

The group, in conjunction with the Bank, ran an open coffee morning where everyone was invited to come along and be part of a community to learn about the different support and communities available in the Bay area.

Set in the stunning newly refurbished Bank bar, with friendly and engaging staff, the group had the maisonette level upstairs where they promoted community and spoke about how it can have such a positive effect on mental health. 

It was a chance to meet some amazing people, chat, combat loneliness and listen to some fantastic inspirational speakers. 

Simon, founder and director of Working Minds, kicked off the talks by  thanking everyone who attended for coming to support the event. 

He spoke about some exciting  community interest groups that are being designed and created for the South West and spoke passionately about the importance of collaboration and communities.  

Next to speak was Karen, who is a domestic violence survivor and the organiser of Rising Moments – a community providing essentials and well-being for women and families in Torbay. It is run solely by volunteers. 

Last, but by no means least was the fabulous Samantha Garner, who is the founder and director of Balanced People and Balanced Schools. She was her usual straight talking and incredibly funny self and expressed the importance of learning to like yourself for who you are and not what society expects.

The morning also involved  delightful coffee and delicious pastries to be enjoyed whilst chatting and getting an opportunity to feel part of a new community.

Because of the feedback from individuals, Working Minds has decided that this will now be the first of many and has agreed alongside the Bank to have an open coffee morning bi-monthly to continue promoting the different communities and support that is available. 

Everyone is invited to go along and support the next one. Dates will be released soon.