Community Minds Matter drop-in group to chat over a cuppa about mental health issues restarts in Ayscoughfee Hall in Spalding

A group to chat about mental health and wellbeing has restarted at a town’s venue.

Community Mind Matters is founded and led by Vanessa Browning to help combat loneliness and discuss mental health issues.

The sessions will restart at Ayscoughfee Hall in Spalding that had been running for six years but stopped when the pandemic hit.

Vanessa said: “I am launching a new group at Ayscoughfee every Thursday from 12pm-3pm.

“It is inside the museum and anybody can come and pop in and see us.

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“Just drop in if you are feeling lonely or suffering with mental health and we can find a quiet space and have a chat.”

Community Mind Matters was started for residents of South Holland and The Deepings suffering with depression and anxiety to interact and share advice.

Vanessa has led many community initiatives such as hosting meals on Christmas and Boxing Day for those who are on their own during the festive period.

She also hosted a mental health awareness event on Time To Talk Day at Spalding Library at the beginning of the month.

This year’s first session at Ayscoughfee Hall took place on Thursday, February 8 and a group of 12 attended.

Vanessa said: “It was a really good start.

“I just want people to reach out- pop in and have a bit of cake and a cuppa – we always have refreshment there.

“The venue is perfect and Thursdays are great as the museum is now opening for five days a week,

“Now that they are back to the normal opening times it's lovely – it is all private and it is a safe space for people.”

Drop in on a Thursday at the reception in Ayscoughfee Hall between 12pm and 3pm or contact Vanessa in advance on 07376 157004.

Visit Community Mind Matters on Facebook for further information.

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