Posted on 15th Nov
A specialist service has expanded into Newark to support people with mental health difficulties.
Portland Pathways is designed to help people rebuild their mental health and work towards positive goals.
The free service is aimed at anyone with mental health issues — whether they are worried, stressed or lacking in confidence, but don’t know who to speak to.
There are two Pathways to choose from, with many clients accessing both.
The Rebuild Mental Health courses are delivered in partnership with Inspire Adult Learning, in a confidential, friendly small group setting, one day a week over five weeks. They teach strategies and techniques for people to take away and use in daily life, and offer free ongoing support to help improve people’s mental health and wellbeing, including one-to-one counselling if it is needed.
The Preparing for Work pathway supports people interested in getting back into work. The team helps to improve employability skills, professional CVs and cover letters, and preparation for interviews.
Portland Pathways also works with employers to help them become more accessible to people with disabilities and mental health difficulties.
Pathways is part of the Portland Charity group, an Ofsted Outstanding organisation based in Mansfield.
The award-winning service has hubs in Sutton, Mansfield, and Worksop, and has recently opened a Newark hub in the Northgate Business Centre at 38 North Gate.
Portland Pathways advisor Rachel Birch said: “We are a very friendly team and we’re extremely proud of our customers, who push themselves out of their comfort zone to reach out and see how we can help them.
“It is wonderful seeing the huge difference our service makes to the lives of so many people every day. I’m really excited to be bringing this service to Newark and I’m looking forward to welcoming and supporting people to rebuild their mental health and help them improve their lives.”
One Pathways client, Glyn, added: “I had two breakdowns and was diagnosed with anxiety, stress, and depression. I heard about Pathways, but I was frightened and it took three attempts to pluck up the courage to knock on their door.
“The staff instantly made me feel reassured and cared for. After seeing their one-to-one counsellor, I joined the Rebuilding Mental Health programme. It really helped me to understand my condition and devise ways to live a more fulfilling life.
“I’m braver, happier, driving again and back at work, and ultimately, my life is better thanks to Portland Pathways.”
For details contact the Pathways team on 01623 499193 or visit www.portland.ac.uk
