Mirfield support group boosts wellbeing during October

A local support group for people who have experienced mental health issues is doing its bit to boost the wellbeing of those who attend during October.

Pathways day service based in Mirfield gives adults with mental health issues the opportunity to participate in activities to improve their confidence and self esteem. This service is jointly run by South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Kirklees council.

One of the activities taking place is a kitchen garden. Service users planted fruit and vegetables back in spring and are now reaping the rewards of their labour as they harvest courgettes, runner beans, onions and tomatoes. The produce is then cooked by the service users for everyone who has attended.

John Butler, the day service co-ordinator at Pathways said, "The kitchen garden is a great project. It increases the energy levels of those involved and encourages them to work with others to achieve something within a supportive environment."

The kitchen garden is just one of the events that Pathways are running during October as part of South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust’s wellbeing month. Others include an archery session, a digital photography group and a footpaths group.

Over 200 events have been organised across Wakefield, Calderdale and Kirklees by local communities, charities and NHS staff in support of wellbeing month.

The Trust’s deputy chief executive, Alex Farrell said, "The Trust’s wellbeing month is an opportunity for us to raise awareness, reduce stigma and promote wellbeing. The events taking place at Pathways are a great example of activities that can boost people’s mental and physical wellbeing and we hope everyone involved enjoys taking part."

For information on the events taking place during wellbeing month, including dates and times, visit the Trust’s website at www.southwestyorkshire.nhs.uk