RICHARD Kelly from Mind in Herefordshire gave a presentation on the progress and developments in mental health services and support in the Herefordshire region to members of the Ledbury Rotary club who had held fundraising activities in favour of MIND.

Richard said that although funding has been found to address many of the issues, in fact the number of referrals and committals has increased. A greater emphasis has been placed on after care services and in Hereford money was spent on upgrading the Shire Hall, for post referral care.

More good news for patients when Richard said that MIND is delighted to report Miller Court is almost complete and this new purpose built 14-bedroom en suite facility will benefit by introducing psychological and psychiatric input for those end users. He said commented, "At Herefordshire Mind we want a better life for people with experience of mental ill-health. We believe that no one in Herefordshire should have to face this and yet the statistics show that one in four people will experience mental health issues. We advocate recovery and well being through education and training, remedial sports which form a large part of recovery. We offer a range of short course training, workshops and physical activity groups, in addition to skills development and leisure activities, designed and delivered by experts, which help to increase a person's confidence and self-esteem. Recent courses have included: creative writing; craft; working with textiles; basic and advanced art; mixed media art, linograph printing, a range of IT courses from beginners to advanced, photography, literacy and numeracy. Our programmes of physical activities are delivered by skilled and accredited trainers and group leaders, and include keep fit, walking, Tai Chi, swimming, football, jogging and badminton".

Rotarian Martin Perry thanked Richard for his talk and the vitally important role played by MIND, saying that "The Rotary Club of Ledbury is delighted to support the services offered by MIND which aim to simplify access to housing, widening housing options in Hereford and improving move on and recovery for individuals with mental health issues".

Getting in touch, 01432 271643 or 278569, info@herefordshire-mind.org.uk, 130-132 Widemarsh Street, Heffernan House, Hereford.