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The Diocese is launching a Mental Health Awareness training initiative in response to the growing mental health crisis taking place across the UK. Led by qualified counsellor, Lauren Carvalho, the Level 1 MHFA England accredited course is aimed at anyone and everyone involved in ministry within their parish.
The Covid-19 pandemic and cost of living crisis are having a significant impact on the mental health of people across the UK, with NHS Mental Health Services reporting that 1.61 million people were in contact with them at the end of June this year. People of all ages are being impacted, with an estimated 400,000 of those seeking help under the age of 18.
The launch of the Diocese’s Mental Health Awareness initiative is a direct response to the difficulties people of all ages are experiencing across our community of faith. Speaking about the launch of the initiative our Youth Adviser Lizzie said:
“The diocesan Formation Team have become increasingly aware of the struggles young people and adults are facing over the last two years - many of which have been heightened and magnified as a result of the pandemic. Our school chaplains have reported teenagers experiencing anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, with similar problems amongst the young adults of the Diocese.”
“After speaking to colleagues across the Diocese we decided to act. Working in partnership with a trained counsellor with significant experience in suicide prevention, we are offering Mental Health Awareness Training to volunteers across our parish communities working with young people and adults.”
The one-day course will be delivered in person by Lauren Carvelho. Speaking about the importance of Mental Health Awareness Training Lauren said:
“I feel very passionate, about the work that I do, believing every person should be able to feel the best that they can about themselves. I enjoy working with organisations and the education sector to support them in the advancement of mental health and wellbeing.”
There are two MHFA England accredited Mental Health Awareness courses being offered this year at a cost of £35 pp (10am to 3pm). The first takes place at the St Philip Howard Centre in Crawley on Saturday 29 October, the second - which is identical - takes place on Saturday 5 November at St Martha’s Church Hall in Bexhill on Sea. Both courses are open to anyone and everyone working with parishioners within their parish - including those involved in the Ministry of Welcome, Sacramental Preparation, Ministers of Consolation, and parishioners who visit the sick and housebound. Participants will learn:
· What mental health is, and how to challenge stigma
· Basic knowledge of some common mental health issues
· An introduction to looking after your own mental health
· Confidence to support someone in distress
To find out more please contact our Youth Adviser Lizzie Wakeling.
