Edenbridge residents offered peace of mind

Edenbridge residents will have access to a range of information on mental and emotional health issues from next month thanks to an innovative new drop-in information centre in the town.

The drop-in sessions will take place at the Bridges Centre on Edenbridge High Street from 10.30am to 12noon on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. The first session is on Tuesday 28 February.

Trained staff from Sevenoaks Area Mind will be on hand to offer free information and advice to anyone who may be experiencing emotional problems or recovering from mental health issues.

Linda Leonard, Chief Executive of Sevenoaks area Mind, says: “We are very pleased to offer this service in Edenbridge as anyone can experience some sort of mental distress. The way we feel about ourselves, how we are treated by others and our environment can all affect our mental well-being and it’s important to talk about our concerns."

Cllr Felicity Broomby, Cabinet member with responsibility for Healthy Living, adds: “Looking after your mental health is very important and it is good news that Mind are providing support for Edenbridge residents. These sessions will provide an opportunity for local people to call in to discuss and understand the mental and emotional issues from which some people may suffer."

Providing ‘drop in’ facilities for mental health problems was identified as important by residents during the Primary Care Trust’s Edenbridge Health Needs Assessment and was also flagged up at the World Mental Health Day event held in Edenbridge Leisure Centre last October.

Mind have been working for more than 30 years to offer help and support throughout the Sevenoaks District and this drop-in is one of a number of new activities being offered in local communities.

For further information please contact: Steve Mandaluff on 01732 227162 or e-mail steven.mandaluff@sevenoaks.gov.uk