Email_Speakup CIC winter newsletter6.12.15.pub

SpeakUpCIC Winter
Newsletter 2015
Registered CIC no. 7530955
Inside this issue:
A Wa rm wel come
Page 3
LGBT BBQ Da y ...Trip to Bri ghton Rememberi ng Clai re
Page 4-5
Your Stories and other a r"cles sent in
Page 6-7
Coping wi th Christmas—Sa ndwich LGBT Group –La unch if Cli &onville Project
Page 8-9
Wha t we a re funded to do ..New Volunteer .—Upda te Dover and Deal
Page 10-11
Folk Week 2014
Page 11-12
Da y tri p to Has"ngs
Page 12 13
Purs uit to Sta ying Content
Page 14 –15
Upda te on Ashford Forum—Crea "ve wri"ng
Page 16-17
Views from members— Folk Week—Lets Talk conference
Page 18-19
Servi ce User Conference
Page 20-21
Tips when feeling low— LGBT Group—World Mental Heal th Da y
Page 22-23
SNEAK PEAK—GAY PRIDE—BIPOLAR GROUP
Page 24-25
Poetry from our members
Page –26-27
Remembering Claire –Fledgling websi te—Grea ter Pa "ent Power –Poem
Page 28 –29
Musi c Group—Poem
Page 30 –31
Milestones—Poem
Page 32=33
Wha t's on in Thanet, Dover, Deal and Ashford
Page 34 –35
2
A warm welcome!
Welcomeoneandalltoyour
Winter2015
newsletter!
Hello and welcome to this bumper Christmas edition of the
SpeakUpCIC newsletter put together by all of our members
who have taken part in our forums and activities this year.
While Christmas can be a challenging time for some of us we
hope you find something to uplift you and smile about in this
edition with articles, stories, reports and poetry written by
many of you. In the last 6 months we have had moments of
both joy and sadness with the passing of one of our valued
and treasured volunteers, Claire Hughes, and the unfortunate
hospitalisation of much loved member Delyth Andrews who
remains in a critical condition at a London hospital at time of
writing. On a more joyful note we have had a number of
outings and trips to events and conferences including the
Let’s Talk Conference held by Kent and Medway NHS and
social care Partnership Trust (KMPT), local LGBT barbeque in
Cliftonville in partnership with the Garden Gate, Brighton
Pride, Margate Pride, forum events at Folk Week in
Broadstairs and a forum trip to Hastings. See inside for more
details.
We always welcome your comments and involvement with
our newsletter as with all aspects of our work so if you have
any feedback for us good or bad please feel free to email
[email protected]. As ever you are welcome to join in
any of the activities and forums you see advertised and if you
would like any more information about these and how you
can get involved then please contact
[email protected]. So we wish you a very Merry
Christmas and Happy New Year 2016 and we look forward to
seeing you in the New Year
The User Forum Team
Would like to thank everyone that has supported the
forum this year and we would like to wish everyone a very
Happy and Peaceful Christmas and we look forward to
seeing you in the New Year.
Maggie Gallant
3
LBGT
BBQ
DAY
SpeakUpCIC organised a LGBTIQ BBQ held at the Garden Gate
Project, Cliftonville at the beginning of September
Members from Ashford and Dover/Deal joined us for the day and, I
think it’s fair to say, that a great day was had by all.
The Garden Gate Project put on a fantastic spread for us, beautiful pizzas from
their pizza oven and salads from their garden. Everyone at SpeakUpCIC would
like to extend a special word of ‘thanks’ to Paul and the entire team at the Garden
Gate Project for having us and making us feel welcome for this. We hope to have
another event next year Great day with a lovely bunch of people - thanks Speak
Up CIC for all you do to bring people together and what a beautiful setting,
Fiona
4
SpeakUpCICLGBTIQ threeLGBTpeoplewillexperiencementalhealthisForum’sTripto
suesandhalfthegaypopulationhasconsideredsuicide.
Brighton'sLGBTmentalhealthproject,MindOut,had
avintagegreenbusintheparadeanditwaslovelyto
seetheirdirector,Helen,again.Butforme,themost
touchingsitesintheCommunityParadewereawombyIanCarter-Chapman anwearingatee-shirtemblazonedwith"MydaughterisalesbianandI'mproudofher"andthe92-year
-oldGeorgeMontague,theself-proclaimed"oldest
Becomingawarethatyou'redifferent,thatyou're
gayinthevillage"withhis husband-togetherfor20
attractedtoothersofthesamegender,acceptingthat
yearsandjustmarried.
factyourselfletalonetellingotherscanamounttoa
dauntingexperience.Addtothatbeingsurrounded Post-parade,someofusstrolledalongBrightonPier,
everydaybyheterosexualimages-tv,posters,maga- othersattendedthefabulousfestivitiesinPreston
Parkormetupwithrelativeswhilesometooktothe
zines,#ilm,internet-anditcanalsobeanisolating
skiesaboardtheBrightonWheel.Whereveryou
experience.
wentinthecity,rainbow#lagsaboundedandahapSoitwaswhenIattendedmy#irstLesbian,Gay,Bi
py,acceptingandcelebratingatmosphereprevailed,
andTrans(LGBT)Prideadec adeago thatIwasal"gay"ineverysenseoftheword.
mostoverwhelmedbyasenseoftogetherness,hapAhugethank -youtoMaggieandAmandaformaking
pinessandwellbeing.IwasremindedofthesefeelingswhenIclimbedofftheminibusthathadbrought thetrippossibleandtoDavidforallhispatient assistancewiththeschedule.Thelastwordmustgo,how14ofusfromtheSpeakUpCICThanet andAshford
LGBTForumstoBrightonandHove's25thPrideon ever,tooneofthepeopleonourtripwhotextedme
thankingusandsayingthatit hadmadehimforget
Saturday,1stAugust.
howdownhe'dbeenfeeling-thatsaysitallabout
WejoinedthousandsofotherLGBTpeople,their
ourtriptoBrighton&HovePride
friendsandfamilies,arecord-breakingnumberin
fact,aswewaitedfortheCommunityParadetocommenceits'routefromHoveseafronttoPrestonPark-
andwaitedandwaited!Wewereunawarethata
bombhoaxhadbeenperpetrated,asuspiciouspackagediscoveredbyastewardbythebandstandand
theParadehadbeendelayedby90minutesthendiverted.Awarningifevertherewasonethathomophobia,bi-phobiaandtrans-phobiaisstillpresentin
ourlives,someonewantedtodisrupttheParadeand
almostsucceeded.
Brighton&Hove
Pride2015
Itwaswellworththewait.Thisyear'sthemewas
CarnivalofDiversityanditwasallthatand
more.Butalongsidethecolourful#lamboyanceofthe
#loats,thetoe-tappingrhythmsofthemusicand
bands,thedazzlingdragandcelebrationofallthings
LGBTweresomeimportantmessages-thereisstill
thedeathpenaltyforhomosexualityincountrieslike
SomaliaandNigeria,andclosertohomeinNorthern
Ireland,thereremainslegalinequality.Aquiltbearingthenamesofthosewhohadn'tmadethejourney,
thoselosttosuicide,wasastarkreminderthatonein
5
SHOUT,SCREAM,LETITOUT. Whattodowhenthesunisnot
shininginyourworldbutisbeautifullybrightoutside?
Don’tstayin!
Nomatterhowhardtheeffortfeels,goout.
Standyourground.SHOUT/SCREAMleaveyourtroublesandget
yourselfOUT.
Watchthesungodown,buryyourtroublesforawhile.TheNewSun
tomorrowcouldbeshiningJUSTFORYOU.
I si t and think of mental heal th,
DepressionI
And wonder what to wri te.
Ihavefounddepressionmore
seriousthanaphysicaloperation.
Thelatterisusually‘doneand
dusted’butdepressionre-occurssometimes
outoftheblue,butmoreoftenasareaction
toaneventoraperson.Usuallyitpasses
afteraperiodoftime,althoughsometimes
onewondersifitwillevergo.AttheendIsay
tomyselfitwillneverreturnnowbutitdoes;
itissodebilitatingandonebecomespassive
andthefutureis‘black’.Lifeceases,and
everydaylifebecomesaburdenand
impossibility.Professionalhelpandtablets
canbeoneexitroute.Ifanexpertcancure
depressionthenthatpersonisagenius.Can
anyonesuggestlesseningitsseverity?
Imaginethesufferingthatcouldbeavoided. For content of the brain is wealth,
Wi thout the need to fight.
My thoughts begin to flow a t last,
But subject ma=er’s thin,
I, Jus t got them down – they move so
fas t,
But all wi thin my skin.
Emo"ons a re connected too,
Tha t’s something more to tra ck,
A feeling of success will do,
A hunch is coming back.
It’s good to be inside a room,
Jus t come inside, forget the doom,
If you have anything to say, poems to share, or
some other contribution for future newsletters we
would love to hear from you!
Beca use – all ’s in the mind.
You could be featuring in our spring newsletter!
By
Please send anything you want to share to
[email protected] or send it in to the Media
Centre, 11-13 Kings Street, Media Centre, Margate,
Kent, CT9 1AD 01843 609359 Where everybody’s so kind,
Keith
6
AmandaandSpeakUpCICfundraiseforMacMilllan
ThisyearAmandatookupthechallengefromMacMillanCancerCareCharitytogosoberforthemonthofOctobertoraisefundstohelppeople#ightingCancer.Boasting
thatshewasaSOBERHERO,membersoftheSpeakUpCICforumschallengedherto
dress-upasasuperheroif£100wasraised.Truetoformtheforumscontributedand
Amandaquicklyraisedthisamountandwentontosurpassitwithatotalof£233goingtothisworthwhilecause.SoaBIGthankyougoestoallwhocontributedtomaking
adifferencetothosesufferingwithCancer.Welldone!!!
Mental Health Support for Women i) CASS (Conf idential Anon ymous Self In jury Sup port)
is a helpline offering emotional support, listening and signposting for women of any age affected by self injury, their carers, friends and families. The service is free from all UK landlines and
mobiles. Call 0808 800 8088 Monday to Friday EVENINGS from 7-10pm and Thursday AFTERNOONS from 3-6pm. For more information visit http://www,selfinjurysupport.org.uk
7
M ental health is just as important as physical health over this festive season.
"For many, this is a time of joy and celebration with friends and family but for others it may be a
time of sadness or anxiety caused by the loss or illness of a loved one, financial hardship or pressure. Looking after our mental health is one seasonal gift we can all give both to others and ourselves.
"We know that one in four people in will be affected by mental ill health at some time in their lives,
and that many know of a loved one, colleague or friend who experiences mental health problems.
"The festive period makes no exception and for some their difficulties may be heightened. Stress,
worry, financial pressures and depression can have an impact at this time of year and it is important
to remember to look after your own mental well-being and that of others.
"One of the simplest messages is to be aware. Some may be feeling sadness, stress, tension or loneliness. M any may feel alone and lonely themselves or at a loss as to how to help others. You might
be able to make things a little easier by just being there to listen and talk and maybe visit people you
know who may be vulnerable.
"There are many local and national health professionals, help lines and other support services which
can help. Friends, family members, neighbours and colleagues are often the people we turn to most
often to talk bout our concerns. Please be aware of your mental health around Christmas and New
Year and be aware of the mental health of those around you."
Some basic advice for mental health at this time of year is:
• Ask for help - don't be afraid to ask for help or accept it
• Be active - physical activity can help your mental well-being
• Be with people - keep communicating and interacting, and perhaps tell those you trust
as to how you are feeling
• Try to relax - balance responsibilities and work with recreation and leisure activities
• Be sensible around alcohol - alcohol can act as a depressant
When trying to help others: respond to requests for help, listen without judgement, encourage contacting skilled professionals and be aware of behaviour or attitude change and
those who may need support
"We appreciate that many people find Christmas a difficult time to cope with. Although most surgeries will be closed on the public holidays over Christmas and New Year, there is always someone
on call to help. If you foresee problems for yourself or a loved one, don't be afraid to ask your practice for advice."
Please see useful telephone help lines include
Samaritans:...Tel;08457909090
Email;[email protected]
Web;www.samaritans.org
MentalHealthMatters;Tel;08001070160
KMPTSinglePointofAccess;Tel;0300222
0123
ParentLine;Tel;08088002222
ChildLine;Tel;08001111
VictimSupport;Tel;08081689111
DomesticAbuseHelpline;Tel;08082000247
8
A
SANDWICH LGBTIQ FORUM
Afteranunfortunatepostponementlastmonth,owingtothecessationoftrainservicesfollowinganaccident,SpeakUpCIC'sSandwichLGBTIQForumwas#inallylaunchedon9thNovember.
Thanet'sLGBTIQForum#irstmetin1993anditwasgreattobeabletoexpandthissuccessful
grouptoanotherareaofEastKent.Ourinitialvenue,theBeachHutCafé inStrandStreet,could
nothavebeenmorewelcominganditwasgreattomeetnewmembersStuartandJenny,aswell
ascatchingupwithMathew,MaggieandDavid.Hopefully,thismonthlygroupwillprovetobea
popularrendezvousforLGBTIQpeoplefacing
mentalhealthchallengesandwhoareunable
totraveltoThanet,helpingtoreducefeelings
ofisolationandpromotingfriendshipand
wellbeing.
NewLGBTIQmembersarealwaysverywelcome,pleasecontacttheSpeakUpCICof#icefor
furtherdetails.Thisgroupmeetsoncea
month
ByIanCarterChapman.
Launch of the
Cliftonville Project
OnJuly29ththisyearwelaunchedournew
serviceinCliftonvillewiththehelpoffundingfromthePeople’sHealthTrust.The
LaunchwasheldatStPaul’sCommunity
Centreandinvolvedthelocalcommunityin
advertisingournewservice.Localpeoplecame
alongandfoundouthowtheycouldbeinvolvedin
thenewserviceandasaresultofthisanewMusic
GroupandaTeaandChatDrop-inwereformedin
thearea.Ournewdevelopmentworkerinthis
areaisKayandwewouldliketoextendawarm
welcometohertoSpeakUpCIC.
9
Whatwe’refundedtodo
WhatSpeakUpCICDo
SpeakUpCICServiceUsers’ForumService
SpeakUpCICarefundedbythelocalauthority,KentCountyCouncil,toruntheServiceUsers’ForuminAshford,Dover,DealandThanet.Todothis,weholdregularmeetingsinallareastomeet
withlocalserviceusers,listentoanyissuesthattheymayhave,andtakethemforwardtotheappropriateperson.Wealsoregularlyattendmeetings,beitstatutorymeetings,meetingswiththe
KentandMedwayPartnershipTrust(TheNHSMentalHealthTrustforKentandMedway)or
meetingsthatwehavesetupwithkeypersonssuchasyourlocalMemberofParliament.Atthese
meetingswetakeyourissuesforwardand#ightforaresolution.
Weareasmallteam,withonlythreestaffmembers,and,unfortunately,wearenotalwaysableto
helpyouwithyourcomplaintorissues.Wewillendeavourtodoeverythingthatweareabletodo
tohelpyou,butthisissometimesnotenough.Wehavebuiltupaverystrongnetworkwithother
localservicesthatmaybeabletohelpyouand,ifwecannothelpyou,wewillbehappytotalkto
youabouttheotheroptionsthatareavailable,andifyouwouldlike,wewouldbehappytorefer
youtotheseservices.
IfyouwouldliketogetinvolvedwiththeServiceUsers’Foruminyourarea,pleasedogetin
touchwithusatourof#iceon01843609359oremailAmanda–[email protected]–[email protected]–[email protected]’llbehappytohelpin
anywaythatwecan.Informationaboutwherewemeetinyourlocalarea,andwhen,canbe
foundatthebackofthisnewsletter.Butifyouwouldliketotalktousaboutit,pleasedon’thesitatetocontactus,we’dlovetohearfromyou.
Hello,mynameisNickLaw.HavinglivedinThanetmywholelifeI’malltooawareofthe
problemsthatexistwithinthearea;namelytheseverepoverty,lackofmentalhealthservicesandlimitedchanc esforpeopletobetterthems elves.
I#irstcametoSpeakUpCICbackin2013immediatelyaft erbeingdiagnosedwithanxiety
anddepression.Whilsteveryonewaswarmandfriendly,Iwasalittlebitoverwhelmed
andsowasreluctanttoembracetheopportunity.IregretthatIdidn’t.Sinc ecomingback
inOctobertovolunteerI’vereallyenjoyedmyself,gottoknowsomefantasticpeopleand
foundanewsenseofpurposeinmylife.
AsyoumaybeawareIknowoneparticularmemberofSpeakUpCICverywellindeed.I
wenttoschoolwithDavidatChathamHouseinRamsgateandwe’vebeenclosefriends
eversince.Hishelpduringdif#iculttimeshas beeninvaluableandI’msurehe’sbeenas
supportivetoyouashehasbeentome.
I’dliketothank everyoneforbeingsokindandwelcomingand
I’malreadylookingforwardtowhat2016hasinstore!
10
UpdateforDoverandDeal
Overthelastquarterwehavebeenbusyin
DoverandDeal.Wehaveanewvolunteer
Sarah,whohasbecomeinvolvedinthe
LGBTIQgroupinSandwichandislookingto
growthegroupfurthera#ield.Sarahhas
beeninvolvedwithmanyofourLGBTIQ
activitiesinthearea,includingtheLGBTIQ
barbequeattheGardenGateinCliftonville,
MargatePrideandBrightonPride.Sarahis
alsokeentostartanartgroupinDoversoifyouareinterestedingettinginvolvedintheart
grouporLGBTIQactivitiespleasedocontactmeAmanda@speakupcic.co.uk.Wehavebeen
feedingbackyourviewsintheareatothelocalMentalHealthActionGroupwhereouradmin
DavidRowdenhasbeenchairingthemeetingandworkingwithServiceUsersandManagersto
ironoutanyproblemsyouhavehad.
TracyCarrfromtheindependentTalkitOutgroupinDeal,whereSpeakUpCICholdan
independentforumintheevening,hastakenupthepostofMayoressofDealandhasbeen
workingwithlocalMPCharlieElphiketoimprovethechoiceofservicesavailablelocally.Tracy
spentadayinLondonvisitingParliamentwithMPCharlieElphikeandtalkingtoAlistairBurt
MP,MinisterofStateforCommunityandSocialCarewhoseresponsibilitiesincludeMental
Health,alongsidePaulFarmerCEOofMind.Tracyreportsthataverystimulatingandproductive
meetingtookplacewherebyshewasablethespotlighttheneedformorelocalservicesinDeal.
ThiswasahugepersonalachievementforTracyandwasalsoawonderfulcampaigning
opportunityandwewouldliketocongratulateTracyonherachievements.
TheforumsattheMCCHdaycentresandTalkitOutgroupmeetingcontinuetocampaignfor
morefundingformentalhealthsoifyoufeelpassionatelyaboutserviceslocallyandwouldliketo
getinvolvedwewouldwelcomeyourinput.PleasecontactAmanda@speakupcic.co.uk.
WewillberestructuringservicesinDoverandDealandlookingatmoreeveningforums,
differentdaysoftheweekanddifferentvenues.Soifyouwouldliketogetinvolvedpleasedon’t
hesitatetocontactus.
11
Day trip to Hastings
Expert Pa*ents
Programme
WeallsetoffforHastingsonalovelysunny
dayinthemini-bus.WecalledinatDover
ResourceHousetopickupmembersonthe
way,wehadafullcomplimentofpeople.
Throughbeautifulcountrysidewearrivedin
Hastingsaboutmiddayandwentindifferent
groups.Wesawthepierwhichwasnearing
completionandtheseafrontwasuplifting
withcolourfulfaçades.Anothergroupwent
totheaquariumandreportedthattheyhada
wonderfultime.TherewasplentyofHastingsRock,IceCreamandtrinketsbought.
WedivedintotheFishandChipshopand
munchedaway.Weleft(reluctantly)and
wenttotheoldtown.
Mazza,PavandIwenttoaquaintcaféwith
ef#icientservicebyahandsomeyoung
man.Webumpedintoothermemberswalkingthroughtheoldtownhavingtea.
Timeup!Wereturnedvia“OperationStack”
toMargate..Afundaywashadbyoneand
all. TheExpertPatient’s
Programmeisasix
weekcourse;runbytheNHS,designedtohelpsuffers
oflong-termhealthconditionstoself-managetheir
symptoms.Thecourseprovidesanopportunityfor
peopletodiscusstheirownhealthissues,whether
theybephysicalorpsychological,inacalmandnonjudgementalenvironment.Eachsessionlastsaround
twoandahalfhoursandinvolvescarryingavarietyof
groupactivities.Everyparticipantisalsogivenabook
#illedwithusefulinformationonarangeoftipsand
ideastoimprovetheiroverallhealth.Thetutorswho
runthecourseencourageeachparticipanttovoice
theirownviewsandtoworktogetherinorderto#ind
solutionstotheirhealthissues.
FromapersonalpointofviewIfoundthecoursevery
bene#icial.Thetechniquestheytaught,suchasbody
scanmeditation,wereveryusefulinreducingmy
overallanxietyfromwhichIsometime ssuffer.I’drecommendthecoursetoanyonewhohastodealwitha
long-termhealthcondition.ByNicknLaw
12
What’sbeenhappeninginAshfordthisyear
PeggyValentine-CarrfromSOBS(Survivorsof
BereavementbySuicide)cametotalktothegroupin
Ashford.PeggyJoinedusattheAshfordpeersupport
groupandexplainedtousthat SOBS (Survi vors Of
Berea vement by Suici de) is a sel f-help, volunta ry
organisa"on helping those who ha ve been berea ved or
a ffected by sui cide. If you ha ve been berea ved or
a ffected by sui cide a t any point, there is help a vailable
and you do not ha ve to be alone.
SOBS servi ces can be
a ccessed as o&en and for as long as you need them. It doesn’t ma =er
how long it has been since your berea vement happened or what your
rela"onship was wi th the person who died. If you feel you ha ve been
a ffected by a sui cide and you would like to talk about i t, SOBS (Survi vors
Of Berea vement by Sui cide) a re there.
Please conta ct thei r Na"onal Helpline on 0300 111 5065 9am to 9pm
every da y.
SummerGardenPartyatLiveitWell
WinterWonderlandattheLiveitWell
SpeakupCIC user forum joined in thefunattheliveitwell
centreinAshfordKent.Therewerereallivereindeersatthe
event,lotsofthingstodoforallthefamilyincludingSanta's
grotto,Christmastreesale,tombola,raf#leandmuchmore.
BigThankyoutoourvolunteerswhosupportedusonthe
dayandabigthankyoutoLukefordecoratingournoticeboard,itlookedgreat.,withtinsel,reindeersandlotsoflights.Wehadlots
ofcommentsonthedayathowlovelyit
looked.Daisymadeapresencedressedin
herSantaout#it.
Who’sthebestdressedsanta?
13
WinterupdatefromtheAshfordForum
Well,Well,Well!It’sbusytimesafootandit’s
nodifferentattheForumandPeerSupport
ServiceinAshfordwherewehavebeen
meetingupregularlyeveryTuesdayfor
activitiesandforumevents.Duringthelast
quarterwehavebeenholdingforumsatthe
LiveitWellcentrewherewehavehad
speakersfromEKHUFTandAdultEducation
aswellastakingforwardissuestotheMental
HealthActionGroupandPatients
ParticipationGroupwithKMPT.AstheCochairoftheMentalHealthActionGroupI
havebeenorganisingandfacilitatingthe
WorkingGroupwherewecampaignedforthe
openingofaCrisisCafélocally.Manyofyou
locallyinAshfordhavebeeninvolvedinthisprocessandI’mpleasedtoreportthatwehavebeen
successfulindrivingforwardthisprojectandthattheCrisisCafé openedattheHouseattheStour
CentreinOctober.ItopenseveryweekendonaFridayandSaturdayeveningbetween6.30pmand
9.45pmandisrunbyMaidstoneandMid-KentMind.
Itisalwaysveryhearteningwhenyouseethatyourvoicemakesadifferencetopeopleandtheir
livessoaveryBigwelldonetoallofyouwhowereinvolvedinmakingithappen.Alreadyinthe
onemonthithasopenedover43peoplehavebeenhelped,somethroughacrisisandsomewith
supportandinformation.Wearecurrentlylookingforyourideasandthoughtsastowhatwe
shoulddonextintheworkinggroupatthemhagsoifyouhaveanyideaspleasedogetincontact
withmeAmanda@speakupcic.co.ukorcomealongtoyournextlocalMHAGonthe14thJanuaryto
beheldatStStephen’sPrimaryHealthCareCentre,StStephen’sWalk,Ashford,Kent.TN235AQ.
So,tothinkaboutthePeerSupportGroupswehavebeenholdinginAshfordwehavemovedout
oftheGatewayandnowhaveourweeklydrop-inattheByTheTankCaféwhereavarietyoftopics
havebeendiscussedfromcomplaintsaboutthecounciltoServiceUserIssueswithservices
additionallysomeofyouhavefoundsupportwithpersonalissueswhilehavingsomethingtoeat
anddrink.WehavealsobeenmeetingmonthlyintheCreativeCollectiveartgallerywherewe
havebeenworkinginpartnershipwithAdultEducationservicestoprovideanintroductionto
MindfulnessandacourseinCon#idenceandAssertivenesstraining.AttheJoeFaggCentrein
AshfordwehavealsobeenmeetingweeklyinthemorningwhereIhavebeenfacilitatingtheart
Therapygroupandthepositivewaysoflookingatdepressiongroup.Davidhasalsobeencoming
toAshfordtofacilitatethecreativewritinggroup.Allthesegroupsyouhavereportedtohave
foundveryusefulandifyouorsomeoneyouknowcouldbene#itthenpleasedocontactme
[email protected].
IwouldliketotakethisopportunityalsotothankHeatherConnollywhohasbeenvolunteering
andco-facilitatingthegroupswithmeinAshfordandhasdoneaverygoodjob.Heatheris
currentlystudyingpsychologyatUniversityandspent
somemonthsgainingexperiencealongsidemeherein
Ashford.SowelldoneandgoodluckHeather.
WehavehadanumberofoutingswiththeAshford
forumincludingatriptoBrightonPride,theLGBT
barbequeheldattheGardenGateinCliftonville,
Hastings,MargatePrideandatriptoMaidstonetohear
fromKMPTattheirLet’sTalkConference.
14
Thanet Creative Writing Group
TheTh anetandAshfordCreativeWritingGroupshavebeenworkingtowardscreatingananthologyofstories
andpoemstoeventuallyb epublishedandd istributed.TheTh anetGroupcreatedashortstoryaboutt he
magicofChristmasforyoutoenjoy!
The Christmas Locket
By Jessica Rolan, Hazel Malik, David
Dixon and David Chitty.
gloved hands, and Bert expected the child to
leave. To his surprise, the boy lingered.
Thank you, Santa,” he squeaked. “But I have
a present for you, too.” With wide eyes and a
It had been three years since the passing of
grin on his face, the boy handed a small
his wife, and Bert was as miserable as sin. It
wrapped box to Bert. Before he could refuse,
was Christmas, and this was always the hard- the boy was gone.
est time; she loved Christmas. After losing his
Christmas morning came; no stocking hangjob, Bert was desperate for cash, so the proming on the mantelpiece, no joy in his heart. All
ise of cash-in-hand work was too good to
bitterness had turned to sorrow. Bert rolled
pass. Bert would have to be Santa. Every
over in his bed and sighed, when he noticed
bone in his body rebelled, the thought of
the small wrapped box on his wife’s pillow. He
screaming children, a heavy suit, an itchy
was certain he had left it in his Santa suit!
beard@ but the situation was dire, and Bert
Bert’s curiosity got the better of him and, with
needed money.
shaking hands, he opened the gift. He sat up
His mind was drawn back to Christmas five
as he ripped the paper, and as he lifted the lid
years ago, seeing the gold locket glint in the
shop window. His wife was ecstatic at the gift.
It had been lost since her death, but the
memory of her joy at the locket only brought
him sorrow.
So Bert put on his heavy suit and itchy beard
and braced himself for the screaming children.
of the box, his heart skipped a beat.
inside lay his wife’s locket. Bert flicked open
the clasp, and saw, through misty eyes, the
picture of them both on their wedding day. On
the other side, an etching simply saying ‘I
miss you.’
He felt a shift in the bed behind him and a soft
The queue never seemed to relent. A hundred hand upon his shoulder.
children later and Bert was running out of the
Bert tenderly took the hand in his, “I miss you
cheap plastic Slinkys, when a young boy aptoo.”
peared and waited to sit on his knee. Bert
couldn’t recall if he’d been in the queue at all.
But the boy smiled and held out his hand for a
present. The last Slinky was placed in his
15
Update from Thanet Forums
We have been working a great deal in the
Thanet area since our last update. We are continuing to work with the local MHAG to help
bring your views forward and try and gain a
resolution, not just for you, but to try and affect
the system that has caused the issue. David,
SpeakUpCIC’s admin, and one of our volunteers, Brian, are the chairs for this local meeting and take the issues that are raised forward
to the County Mental Health Action Group.
Through the Thanet MHAG, a Working Group has formed to work towards setting up a Crisis Café
or Crisis House in the Thanet area. This will hope to alleviate some of the pressures on secondary
services and A&E by supporting people at their time of need, speci#ically after hours (Friday
nights and weekends) where the majority of services are no longer accessible. We’ll keep you updated about this as it develops, if you would like to be involved or have your say, please contact us
on [email protected]
Our service users’ Forum continues to be a great platform for local people to raise their issues
with us and receive feedback on these issues. It is also a platform for us to keep you informed
about local news or developments, other meetings, such as the MHAG or PCC, that give you another opportunity to raise your issues. We are also looking at developing and growing the Forum to
include evening Forums and perhaps adding more Forums to our roster to ensure that we are
capturing as many service user issues as we can.
Our groups continue to grow and develop in the Thanet area. We have restarted our relaxation
group due to popular demand and will be starting this in the January time. We have also started
up a photography group and restarted our computer workshop group for people struggling with
the technology or for those who would like to improve their skills.
Walk and Talk, by Les
Many a mountaineer will tell you that they started just going for a walk. Then the
feeling of wellbeing made them want to do more. And, as the walks got longer and
the hills got steeper, the immense sense of achievement eventually propelled them to
the foot of a mountain.
Mental illness can be overcome in the same way; simply by
going for a walk, gradually increasing he distance until the
feeling of wellbeing leads you into other activities and the
snowball effect continues. o if you want to give it a try,
come and join the walk and talk group at 1.00 pm on
Tuesdays, meet at the Margate Clock Tower
16
VolunteeringwithSpeakUpCICbyHeather
norm. I think it’s heartening that people can
#ind that space with SpeakUpCIC, especially
when they might not have found it elsewhere.
I have been blessed to get to volunteer with all
of you at SpeakUpCIC. I hoped maybe I’d be able
to help you out but you’ve all helped me out so
much too, by being so welcoming and kind. I’ve
studied two years worth of psychology at university, which I love, but I’m aware the mental
health system is far from perfect and a stigma
de#initely still remains around mental health.
I’ve been so inspired to see the way you work to
challenge these problems and make sure everyone gets the respect and care they deserve. If I
work in mental health in the future I’ll be sure
to remember all of you and all the stories I’ve
heard and use these to do the best job I can.
SpeakUpCIC has given me so many opportunities from the trip to Brighton Pride, to mindfulness, to art group and creative writing. The ongoing feeling I got through all of these, was that
a safe and kind space can be created anywhere
when people have their voice heard and their
personality, dif#iculties and quirks accepted.
Such simple values but they’re not always the
I am incredibly grateful for the way you have let
me join you. I know how hard it is to let a
stranger into your space, especially when
you’re talking about your personal experiences
and journeys and I feel honoured that some of
you have told me how you enjoyed having me
and even that I inspired you. You have all inspired me with the way you support each other
and never give up. When I’m struggling for motivation to study at university I will remember
the determination I have seen in all of you and
keep going. I hope to see you all soon and I
thank you for how much you’ve taught me, especially how to believe in myself the way I’ve
come to believe in all of you. I hope you all keep
doing what you’re doing, you’re doing a great
job.
Makenewfriends,shareexperience,helpyourselfandothers! OuractivitiesandservicesruninThanet,
Dover&Deal,Ashfordandtherearemany
waysthatservicesusersandex-services
userscanbecomeinvolvedwithus,you
couldbeattendingaforummeeting,contributingnewsviewsandpersonalarticles
toournewsletter,Facebookpagewebsite
tobecomingauserforumrepresentative
andattending(withsupport)localstatutoryandnon-statutorymeetings.Ourvolunteersevenbecomeinvolvedinlocalandnationalcampaignsforissuessurrounding
mentalillhealth.
Ifyouwouldliketobecomeinvolvedasa
forummember,joinagrouporworkasa
volunteerwithaspeci#icroleandfunction
downloadourApplicationformonline
at www.speakupcic.co.uk orgiveus
aringon:01843
609359. We'dlove
01843448384
tohearfromyou!
17
Views from our Members!
I was going through a bad time with my depression and I did not
feel like I want to do anything .
My flat was in a mess, washing up was left, bags all over the floor of
the living room and kitchen and I didn’t wash the basin in the bathroom.
The bedroom is full of bags and other rubbish.
I have managed to tidy 3 rooms but I am going to tackle the bedroom soon.
SpeakUpCIC are giving me a lot of support and encouragement so I am able to get on with it.
Today I was going through a bad depression, but I came to the forum to cheer myself up.
I am supposed to go on the computer at the library but I cannot concentrate today, I hope to go
SpeakUpCIC are always there for all their members.
WHATSPEAKUPCICGIVESME.
For the first time in my life I am ACCEPTED. I have friends who care who I can
speak to, they understand me. They don’t make me feel judged, I feel helped and
supported. I wonder, how did I cope beforehand? I now have access to a wide variety of activities all of which are life enhancing.
I can’t envisage my life without SpeakUpCIC.
SpeakUpCIC is like a happy family – a
group of people with different mental
problems but coming together under one
roof trying to help each other.
THANK YOU
getting new ideas and sharing interests.
You might feel ‘down’ but activity can lift
your spirits – ‘Creative writing’ Music
Appreciation’ and the weekly Monday
Don’t “bottle it up” instead “SpeakUpCIC” Forum for example. I don’t know what I
would do without SpeakUpCIC. Many
a problem shared is a problem halved.
thanks go to theSpeakUpCICteam.
We are all in it together – never alone.
There are many clubs to suit all tastes,
MondayGroupbySusan
Sometimes, after I have had a bad weekend, I go to SpeakUp on a Monday. After a chat with all my friends,
my mood changes and I feel a different person. This Group sets me up for the week.
18
FOLK WEEK 2015
The second week in August is my favourite time
of the year. It is Broadstairs Folk Week. Music,
dancing and happy people
make the town “come
alive”. And so my special
week came together with
my favourite group –
“SpeakUpCIC”.
To sit among friends and
absorb the terri#ic atmosphere of this beautiful,
sunny day seems special. The walk along the pier,
a hot dog, a look round stalls with things to buy. A
Happy time, happy friends, sunshine and music –
a wonderful day. There were also stalls selling
C.D’s and Joss sticks, and fragrance crystals for oil
burners. Just along from the Charles Dickens Pub,
some Morris men Dancers put on an exhibition.
able to sit outside again. Folk singers were to
be found in others pubs.
It was lovely just sitting and soaking up the atmosphere. There were lots of people doing the
same and the local businesses must have done a
roaring trade. In the afternoon everyone went
home all saying they had a good day, and are
looking forward to next year .
Let’s Talk Conference in Maidstone to speak to KMPT
We were also able to arrange a coach to the KMPT Let’s Talk Conference in Maidstone to
speak to KMPT about how they can better engage with Service Users and how they can reach
more people. The day was well attended by service users and
professionals alike and was a great chance for KMPT to hear
from the people who access their services and work together
to make a more harmonious experience. The conference was
a fantastic way for service users and carers to help shape the
way that future services are delivered.
19
Service User Conference “Supporting your
Journey”
This w as held on Monday 7th September at St Martin’s. A total of about 40 people attended and the
programme w as packed into three hours, so only
about 20 minutes w as allocated for each subject.
The proportion of service users in the room w as
sadly rather low , considering it w as a conference
designed for us. But this gave a chance to raise any
concerns with the KMPT (Kent & Medw ay Partnership Trust – the mental health services) hierarchy.
The first subject w as out of area beds, which has
been an ongoing concern for some years and has a
high cost to KMPT. There are tw o reasons why
people are sent out of area, either to find specialist
treatment unavailable here, or because of lack of
beds. It has a great effect as it can cut service users (and carers) off from their social netw orks completely and people have been sent as far afield as
Cambridge or Manchester.
Basically, KMPT feels it is being asked to do too
much w ith too little resources. Although North Kent
has no problem w ith this (there are more community services available), West Kent has a s mall issue
with it (1447 bed days in 2014/15) and East Kent a
major problem (8561 bed days). The overall figure
for 2014/15 w as how ever much low er than in
2013/14 but there are still ongoing issues w ith hospital bottlenecks over finding new accommodation
and care plans not being in place. KMPT also feels
that East Kent has not enough bed spaces commissioned for the needs of the population. Overall, they
are taking action to relieve pressure on inpatient
places w ith more services in local communities.
The second subject w as “Open Dialogue”, a radical
new approach to mental health services w hich originated in Lapland and Finland in the 1980s. A few
British mental health services have been involved
with this recently and KMPT w orkers are currently
completing their intensive training. he approach has
far more emphasis on psychological methods and
involving patients’ entire social netw orks in the situation in an effort to to be far more democratic. For
Britain, the National Audit of Schizophrenia 2014
show ed that 90% do not w ork and only 34% have
daytime activity. With Open Dialogue, 78% had a
first episode then returned to w ork or study and on-
ly 19% relapsed w ithin 5 years. There is going to be
a pilot in certain areas (including North Kent) for 2-3
years and results will be compared to traditional
services, in such areas as hospital and medication
use, recovery outcomes and w ider service use. The
third presentation w as on the new “Single Point of
Access” (SPoA) phone number service. This has
already started but w ill soon be fully operational
with clinicians available; it w ill be a much quicker
route to find help in a crisis. The number is 0300
222 0123 and it w ill be available 24/7 and also
avoid people having to go via the general NHS
helplines.After these we broke into groups to debate w hat w as going right and w rong betw een primary and secondary services. It w ould perhaps be
interesting if KMPT invited service users to voice
what they’d like to see on the agenda in future.
After a break, w e then heard about peer support
within the trust. This is w here people w ith lived experience of mental health difficulties go on to w ork
for KMPT to help others and show what w orked for
them. At present there are 23 w ith another starting
soon and they are in all areas of services. There
are 8 key principles to this namely: mutual, reciprocal, non-directive, recovery-focused, strengths
based, inclusive, progressive and safe. KMPT is
aiming to have one of these w orkers co-facilitating
every group w ithin the trust soon.
The final presentation w as on care planning, as a
group has been w orking on this for some time. The
aim is to improve this essential part of the service
with full inThe conference then ended w ith further
questions and a good lunch. It was the follow up to
another at the end of 2014 whic h involved service users from all over Kent, but a further one is being held
for West Kent this time as the venue didn’t suit everyone. There is also a carers’ conference roughly every
six months but no mention was made of when they
plan to hold the next one for service users.
Open Dialogue Conference
This took place in Ashford on Friday 11th September
and was dis tinctly aimed at service providers but service users were allowed to attend. There were about
300 people there from all over Kent – and indeed beyond – a reflection of the great interest this subject is
creating. A number of KMPT staff have been undergoing training in it, in preparation for a pilot scheme of 23 years in four areas in the UK, one of which is Kent.
ivolvement from service users.
.A large proportion of the day was taken up with hearing Jaakko Seikkula, professor of psychotherapy from
the University of Jyvaskyla in Finland. When the work
20
but now as well as having better outcomes for
those w ith this condition, there is a far low er rate of
it overall because symptoms are not given the time
to escalate. A five year study from 1992-97
show ed that only 35% needed antipsychotics, 81%
had no remaining psychotic symptoms and 81%
returned to full employ ment. After 5 years, only
17% remained on antipsychotics.
The overriding theme of Open Dialogue is to accept the other w ithout conditions. The guiding principles are an immediate response (w ithin 24
hours), a social netw ork perspective and obviously
dialogue (w here anyone the service user wants
involved is), flexibility, mobility and responsibility,
psychological continuity (w orking w ith the same
people for as long as needed) and tolerance of uncertainty. To this end, professionals attend the
meetings w ith no preset agenda at all and have
everyone talk their w ay through it; this also allow s
for non-conscious unarticulated feelings and
thoughts to rise to the surface. “A problem shared
is halved”, to quote the old adage.
Open Dialogue has three main elements: a new
guideline to clinical practice, systematic analysis of
professionals’ ow n practice and psychotherapeutic
training for all staff. It recognises the need for a
new medication procedure and although forced
medication can still be used, it’s alw ays w ith prior
warning and discussion. They have found that talking therapies w ithout medication is effective as a
treatment for psychosis and the professor regards
even the practice of telling service users they will
be on medication for life as extremely damaging.
He furthermore observes that psychosis as a category does not exist; the symptoms are not symptoms of an illness but a strategy for the embodied
mind to survive strange experiences. To me, this
echoes the RD Laing anti-psychiatry view of the
1960s, that psychosis is a perfectly sane response
to a mad w orld and an unliveable situation. Professor Jaakko also believes that ongoing psychotic
behaviour is caused by poor treatment that starts
too late and has far too little understanding of the
problem, therefore gives the w rong response.
Again, this is w hat the anti-psychiatry movement
has alw ays been about! Psychosis is itself a response – a part of life and many “hallucinations”
originate in real events. Instead of fighting this and
getting rid of the symptoms as soon as possible,
Open Dialogue explores them and uncertainty itself
is a major part of the process.
The professor also believes that authentic life is
open-ended dialogue and as essential to human
beings as breathing. It is communication, but so
much more besides and its overall effects are to
heal and become more human in relation to one
another. In regard to the question of professionals
having less control over the situation, he did observe that the control psychologvery much part of
western culture. It w as also observed that Finland
is one of the happiest nations on Earth, something
Britain cannot match. But overall there w as complete enthusias m for all these ideas w hich are such
obvious common sense you can’t help w ondering
why it’s only now anyone’s taking any notice of it.
The afternoon w as taken up w ith other sessions:
more details on the upcoming pilot and an interesting discussion w ith a family w ho had received
Open Dialogue recently. It had not been immediately at the onset of the problem but had clearly
raised some unspoken family issues and had an
overall beneficial effect. Annie Jeffrey, a local carer, then spoke movingly of her ow n experiences –
and did not mince her w ords about the current system and therefore the need for this new approach.
There w ere then group discussions w ithin the audience and a chance to put questions to the experts
at the end.
So – everyone is full of enthusiasm and can see
it’s a great idea. The big question now is, how do
we get from here to there? The usual major barrier
is in the w ay: money. Yet surely it’s clear that these
methods can be taken on, even w ithout expensive
training and replacing staff when it happens. All
that is needed is the w ill. The principle of accepting
AN Other w ithout condition is surely a good guideline for all human interaction. Does it really take
millions to be spent to train people how to do it?
21
HandyTipsandhelpwhenfeelinglow
May tree is a registered charity supporting people in suicidal crisis in a non-medical setting. If
you, or someone you know, could benefit from a one-off stay in a safe and confidential space,
please call us today on 020 7263 7070 or email [email protected].
You are not alone
Suicide Respite Centre
The Ma ytree Suicide Respite Centre is the only place of its kind in the UK and fills a gap in services, between the medical support of the NHS and the helplines and drop-in centres of
the voluntary sector. We offer a free 4 -night/5-day stay, and the opportunity to be befriended and heard in complete confidence, without judgement and with compassion and
warmth.
Tips to “ground” you in the here and now by Susan Gale SEEING – look around you and
say out loud five objects that you can see – maybe a picture, a bedside rug, a vase of flowers,
your curtains, and a clock. HEARING – Maybe you can hear your own breathing, a clock ticking,
birds beginning to sing outside, a familiar creak of floorboards, a car in the distance TOUCHING
– the softness of one hand against the other, the fabric of your chair, the material of what you
are wearing, the warmth or coolness of your skin, the hardness of a wooden ta-ble. SMELLING –
any scent you might be wearing or soap you have used, the detergent you have washed your
clothes in, maybe a cigarette if you are a smoker, any flowers that are in your room (leaves too have a distinctive
smell), furniture polish. TASTING – the saltiness of your own
skin, the trace of toothpaste in your mouth, the drink you
have made yourself, imagine the taste of your favourite
food, the cold taste against your tongue of the by now empty mug. All the above are only suggestions – you will find
your own “five senses”. This will take as long as it takes.
There is no time scale. Everyone is different. Like anything
else it takes prac-tise. We are all individuals.
SMALL STEPS, EVERYDAY TRIUMPHS
If you ha ve a severe mental health condi"on, your
risk of developing coronary hea rt disease is greater then the general public. The Bri"sh Heart Founda"on (BHF) has designed a new booklet for mental health servi ce users- helping you to take small
steps towards a lifestyle tha t's good for your
hea rt. The BHF booklet - Everyda y Triumphs- has
been made wi th help from servi ce users, carers
and healthca re professionals and is full of useful
fa cts, pra c"cal "ps and advi ce to help you look
a &er your heart. Make small, steady changes to help improve your heart health, cope be=er wi th your mental health condi"on and improve your overall feeling of wellbeing. Everyda y Triumphs is a vailable to preorder now. To find out more visit: bhf.org.uk/triumph or call 0870 600 6566 and quote G972.
22
SpeakUpCICcelebratesWorld
MentalHealthDayinCanterbury
SpeakUpCICjoinedupwithCanterbury&
CoastalCarers’SupportGrouptocelebrate
WorldMentalHealthThetopicwas-“OPENDIALOGUE”withDr.RussellRazzaque,MB.BS.,
MRCPsych.,Dip.Couns:YasminIshaq,Service
ManagerfortheEastKentEarlyIntervention
ServiceandAnnieJeffrey,localactivistandcampaigner,wentverywell,withapproximately80people,includingthechoir,attending.Itwas
lovelytoseesomanypeopleattheevent.The*MustardSeedSingers'performancewasvery
popularandpeoplewereamazedattheharmonieswhichconductorElleCaldonachieveswith
thechoir.Tosaythatthe"OpenDialogue"initiative
presentationwasinterestingisatotalunderstatement.Wordswhichhavebeenrelayedtousby
manyofyouwhoattendedtheeveningare"exciting,inspirational,innovative,hope-creating,"etc.Dr
Razzaque'spresentationfocussedaroundthe
"DifferentApproach"ofOpenDialogueandthesuccessofthisapproachwhereverithasbeenputinto
practice.BigthankyoutoChrisandCherylfor
invitingustoattend.
LGBTIQ Dinners On the last Thursday of each month we congregate at the Promenade Restaurant near Margate Sta"on. This is your chance to eat well from a really varied menu and at good prices . We meet likeminded people within a nice seLng and have a really sociable evening. You can be yourself and speak freely whilst
you enjoy this monthly get-together.... If you have not been before, it is well worth Coming and making new
friends, interes"ng conversa"on and not feeling alone in the dark Winter nights ahead. Friends and
Thane"ans. Come together . Feel free to voice your opinions . Wi thout inhibi"ons
WorldMental
DayinThanet
SpeakUpCICattendedaMentalHealthAwarenessEventat
CliftonvilleCommunityCentreonthe9thofOctoberto
commemorateWorldMentalHealthDay.Wewerejoinedbyahost
ofotherorganisationsthatsupportlocalpeopleintheirrecovery.
Itwasagreatdayforallinvolvedand
awarenesswasraisedaboutlocal
services.Thankyoutoallthe
volunteerswhohelpedusontheday
andtheeventorganisersformakingit
possible.
23
Fancygettinginvolved?Hereisasneakpeakat
Thanet
They say mental health facilities in East Kent are abysmal. But SpeakUpCIC Support
groups is an oasis in this desert of depression. It has certainly helped me. Before I
joined SpeakUpCIC I was a paranoid social phobic. Now I lead a relatively normal
life with several friends and an active social life. Yet 10 years I was living in total
despair. Sodon’tgiveup–joinSpeakUpCIC! TheWomen’sGroupaims to support female SpeakUpCIC members.
Currently we are a small group but we always welcome new members.
KCA visited us in the Spring to discuss their psychological therapies.
We have plans to develop the Operation Beautiful, an idea to enable it
to apply to everyone (including men). Also we are considering
relaxation and aromatherapy. If you would like to spend some time
with a group of supportive women then come along on a Thursday
morning. We look forward to seeing you! A warm welcome awaits you.
The Women’s Group meets once a week on Thursday between 10am and
12:00 pm, at the Margate Media Centre in the Margate Old Town. If you would
like to get involved, please ring us on 01843 448384 or email on
[email protected] and we’ll post a membership form to you. Mazza
Things that get me through difficult days …
By Clare Wright
A while ago Maggie asked for contributions on what helps some of us get
through difficult days. Seeing this article by Anatole France rem inded me of this
request. Sometimes I look at something that seemed a good idea or quote a while
ago and just think—what a load of hogwash—or other choice words depending on
how I feel. On the days the effort is so great and I cannot even think beyond putting one step in front of the other I just focus on bare essentials.
On other days I pick up quotes from inspirational speakers, just opening a book
and seeing what a random search will bring. I am quite interested at the moment
in the sayings of Anatole France. I particularly like ‘To know is nothing at all; to
imagine is everything’ - go to http://www.quotationspage.com /quotes/
Anatole_France/ for m ore of his pithy sayings. And I like the following too. Best
wishes to all reading this newsletter and I hope to read other’s getting through
the day tips. Thank you to Maggie for starting this idea.
24
SpeakUpCIC
LGBTIQ
group
joined Hundreds
of gay, lesbian, bisexual
and
transgender people
marched
through
Thanet
today in a "Kent
Pride" procession.
There had been
concern that the
celebration of the
LGBTIQ community could be marred
after anti-gay lea#lets were posted
throughout Margate ahead of the
event.
The day
turned out to be a
huge success
SpeakUpCIC has been running the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning
group in 1993, and it has been going strong for the last 22 years. Over that time, LGBTIQ rights
have come along in leaps and bounds. There’s still a way to go in this, especially in certain parts
of the world. The LGBTIQ Kent Pride event was both a celebration of the rights and freedoms that
the LGBTIQ community now have, but also about challenging the stigma and #ighting for the global rights of the LGBTIQ communities.
The Bi-Polar group is going from s trength to s trength. Talking about our past month has
helped everyone express themselves.
Bi-polar is a severe mental illness and can be controlled with medi ca"on. People wi th the illness
seem to be qui te intelligent. The illness is many mood swings from mania to depression. Li thium is
the main medica "on, this has been used for a long "me. However, I ha ve to ha ve blood checks beca use it can affect the kidneys . Depakote is used as well.
We meet on the Fi rst Thursda y of every month at the Ma rga te Media Centre, in Margate Old Town, at 2pm. If you
would like to get invol ved, please ring the SpeakUpCIC
office for a membership form on 01843 448384. Or you
ca n email us on [email protected]. We also have a
SpeakUpCIC Bipolar Support Group on Fa cebook
25
P oe t r y f ro m ou r
M embers
Claire Hartman-James
Changes of any kind can be scary, the y push us out of our nice warm comfort zones
and cause us to sometimes make big decisions that will effect our future selves.
The biggest decision is what response and attitude are you going to
adopt towards any change?
Thisisthegamechanger.
Be aware of how you feel, address it, embrace it, cry, scream, sulk, however, have the dignity & integrity to do this privately or with a trusted source
and shift through the emotions quickly. Publicly dwelling in self pity, gossip,
rumour or negativity will spread like a disease and effect you in other areas
of your life.
Don't believe me? Try stubbing your toe in the morning and see your day spiral
downwards...
Look for the positives, write them down even, how far have you come? How much
have you learnt or progressed from this situation? What could you perhaps do differently in the future?
Then pick yourself up and run with it, adopt the right mindset and the biggest growth
your ever e xperience will come through change, that choice is down to one person
and one person
"Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind. Look at the sunny
side of everything and make your optimism come true. Think only of the best, work only for the
best, and expect only the best. Forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater
achievements of the future. Give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have
no time to criticize others. Live in the faith that the whole world is on your side so long as you are
true to the best that is in you!"
Ihavefounddepressionmoreseriousthanaphysicaloperation.he
latterisusually‘doneanddusted’butdepressionre-occurssometimesoutoftheblue,butmoreoftenasareactiontoaneventora
person.Usuallyitpassesafteraperiodoftime,althoughsometimes
onewondersifitwillevergo.AttheendIsaytomyselfitwillnever
returnnowbutitdoes;itissodebilitatingandonebecomespassive
andthefutureis‘black’.Lifeceases,andeverydaylifebecomesaburdenandimpossibility.Professionalhelpandtabletscanbeoneexit
route.Ifanexpertcancuredepressionthenthatpersonisagenius.
Cananyonesuggestlesseningitsseverity?Imaginethesufferingthatcouldbeavoided.
Istherea‘DepressionsAnonymous’
26
Po et r y fr o m o u r
M embers
“Welcome Back”
You’ve been coming for a while
And made a few friends
But life is s*ll a problem
Perhaps you want it to end…
SHOUT,SCREAM,LETITOUT.
Whattodowhenthesunisnotshininginyour
worldbutisbeautifullybrightoutside?
Don’tstayin!
Nomatterhowhardtheeffortfeels,goout.
You wonder if you should s*ll come
So you stop and back away
And stay at home all alone
Try to keep the thoughts at bay.
Standyourground.SHOUT/SCREAMleaveyour
troublesandgetyourselfOUT.
Watch the s un g o down, bury your troubles for a
while. The New Sun tomorrow could be shining JUST
FOR YOU
But even though you’re not able
To reach out and say “help me!”
Those friends you made at SpeakUp
Will try their best to help you see
You’re not alone or useless
And even though you’re in pin
Your friends are right behind you
Wai*ng to see you again.
So when you pluck up the courage
To walk through the door with no aFack
Of course there’ll be smiling faces
And open arms saying “Welcome back!”
Anon
Thedullnessloomsovermymind,anever
endingdarkness,looming-alwayslooming.
Brightnessemergesthroughtheblack,asmall
glimmerofhope.
Thedarknessstilllooms,alwayslooming.The
hopesoondiesandthelightfades.
TheLoomingdarknesshaswon,thedarkness
foreverlooming.Hopecannevertrulydie,it
alwayscomesback.
’Hope’startstoloom,alwaysloomingthrough
thedarkness.
What Christmas means to me,
By Janet Reynolds
A "me for li ving for forgi ving
Advent the bi rth of gods son.
Sending us blessings by the ton.
A "me I can visi t and see my mum,
Al though there is never any snow,
Many fol ks toddle off to church and gi ve
presents galore, events to explore.
Remember to celebra te,
ma ybe gi ve a child a toy.
Not work to do, feel blue.
Jus t come along and sing a song.
The communi ty Halls open for all
Christmas Da y, Boxing Da y pra y not onl y
for us , pla y, rest , recupera te, keep wa rm.
Come and join the throng.
27
In Loving Memory of Claire
Claire had been a member of the forum for over 10 years
and was also a volunteer, sadly Claire died from cancer
shortly after her 47th birthday. Claire was a popular
member of the forum and also ran the women's group,
recovery group and relaxation group where she had many
friends. Having suffered depression herself the
experience made her very empathetic, sympathetic and
understanding of other’s feelings. A sensitive and gentle
woman with a great sense of humour made her very well
loved - she will be sadly missed by us all.
Claire radiated an air of calmness and was liked by us all. – Les
Claire, RIP and farewell. All my love. – Hazel
Dear Claire, you were a wonderful friend and colleague in Speak Up. Such an inspiration to all. I
will miss you . – Marissa
Claire was kind and supportive all of the time. She encouraged me to be open and honest about
my feelings. Nothing was too much trouble for her. She was delightful. – Ann
We will miss Claire. She always gave me a big hug and helped me do the teas. – Sugar
God’s Angels surround that smile that Claire would usually have. – Pav
I shall miss Claire’s smile. She always cared and had time to listen. A loving, lovely kind lady will
be missed. – Josey
Claire was very supportive and kind to me when I was in a low moo. I am quite self-reliant but
Claire was persistent in checking that I was OK. I miss her kindness and concern. – Mazza
It was nice to have you. You are a lovely lady, take care and God Bless. – Dean
Goodbye, Dear Claire. No more pain. – Iris
OUR LO SS IS H EAV EN’S GAIN,
FE LT B Y A LL WHO R EMA IN,
OUR H EART S WE RE TOUC HED WIT H LOVE
AND LAU GHTE R,
HERE , NO W, FOR EVE R A FTE R.
WE M ISS YOU SO VE RY M UCH.
– FROM ALL O F U S AT SP EA KUPC IC
28
Fledgling Website
Mental illness frequently closes down the social contacts of sufferers and leaves them increasingly isolated. With the advent of social media at least there is a new way opened for some kind of connection with
others.
For me this has offered the opportunity to engage in a kind of therapeutic activity and communication with a community who share similar interests.
‘Fledgling’ is a website for people with a mental illness who have artistic interests.
The aim of the site is a type of catharti c expression through artistic creation among a like -minded community, each trying to cope with mental health issues.
I began as a member, posting photographs and commenting on the work of others.
This came as a big surprise albeit a pleasant one, I was quickly offered the job of volunteer.
(Volunteers being #ledgling members with a duty to comment on the posts of others).
Time went on and all the “wings” of #ledglings were opened up to me:
Film and art, poetry and creative writing, Music, and of course, Photography.
Soon I began whizzing from wing to wing, commenting on poetry, visual art and photography, all while giving and receiving commentary from #ledging members.
It has been a big -part of my life during the months that followed and connecting with other mentally ill people has
helped, but more so the expression itself.
So if you are interested in the Arts or just want to join in, then look up Fledgling.
MEASURES FOR GREATER PATIENT POWER
From next year, for the first time, new 'Ofsted style' ratings will show patients how their local
area's health service is performing in crucial areas, including cancer / dementia / diabetes /
mental health / learning disabilities / maternity care
The new ratings, broken down by Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) will not only be based on
local data but will also be verified by experts in each field, including:
• The Chief Executive of Cancer research UK, Harpal Kumar, who will verify cancer ratings
• The government's Mental Health Taskforce Chairman, Paul Farmer, who will lead on mental
health
When you a re so "red tha t you don’t want to speak, I will help you find the s weetest song.
When your hea rt bea ts too fas t, enough to s ca re you, I will help you brea the the calmes t breath.
On mornings when you can’t face the world, I will paint you the mos t beau"ful smile.
Jus t when you think your tea rs can’t s top, I will remind you of a fabulous memory tha t turns your
tea rs to laughter. And as a s cream builds from deep down "ll you realise you’ve released it, i t is loud
and i t is real. I will hold you in the cal m that follows . Don’t you remember me? Do you
recognise me?
I am your reason, support and will. I am the decision ma ker, the joker, bes t friend. I a m
the survi vor, the soldier when you a re a t wa r. We a re one and the same, I am you.
By Alison Shields.
29
Group enjoys safe place
to unwind and feel the
music
the group when Marissa turns warmly to him
and says, "we're Facebook friends now."
TWIRLING to the beat of Rod Stewart,
hands on hips and singing their hearts out
it's difficult to imagine the people bopping
around the room sometimes struggle to
catch a bus.
The vibrant 85-year-old boasts an enviable
social life and likes nothing better than to
sing along to her signature track, Dancing
Queen.
But members of mental ill health community
group SpeakUpCIC are testament to the
healing powers of song, as they sing-a-long
to music ranging from head bangers to calming classical.
Volunteer June Reed or "Sugar" is quick to
make sure I have a cuppa in front of me as I
speak with the group.
It isn't just singing and dancing that has encouraged members – Daphne Hill, who suffers from "huge anxiety" and has found her
niche penning lyrics for a new song the
group are creating called Speak Up and
Speak Out.
The group let their hair down in a comfortable enviroment at Margate Bowling Club on
Northdown Avenue.
It's testament to the collaborative nature of
the group where an organic movement to
create and share experience has led to an
Organiser Kay Byatt said: "It's a chance for increase in self-confidence and belief. Marispeople to come here and be themselves. It's sa sums up when she pauses and turns to
not just singing but dancing and discussing the group leader with emotion "I want to give
the meanings of songs and specifically what a big thanks to Kay, you have become a
friend to all of us and have listened to some
memories are evoked from them."
of our problems.
Marissa Smith, a born and bred Margatonian, confirms this assertion as she recalls
"I can call you a friend."
being taken back to her 1980s disco dancing
They end the group session with a storming
youth when a Debarge record plays.
rendition of the Queen classic, Bohemian
She explained: "I'm usually anxious about
Rhapsoody
leaving the house and getting the bus in the
morning and you really
would not recognise me
from the person who arrived here earlier to the
person you are speaking
with now."
John and Annie travel
from Aylesham to attend
the class and their dancing skills illuminate the
room.
"It's a horrible thing –
loneliness," said John, his
voice trailing off.
But the Elvis lover perks
up when reminded of the
friendships forged at the
sessions he has made at
30
PoemfromClaireHartman
ApoemIwrotetodayinmemoryof
howfarIhavecome.Thisistoraise
awarenessofpostpartumandmental
illness,beatthestigmaattachedtoit
andtoofferinspirationforthosethat
arestilllostinthedarknesstolook
forthelightF
9 years ago, I was frightened, I was lost,
Having a baby had come at a cost,
A price so high, I almost wondered,
how deep down the depths I had plundered...
9 years ago, I couldn't leave my home,
The thoughts in my mind had uncontrollably
grown,
Panic suddenly gripped me by the throat,
I couldn't breath, all alone, feeling remote.
9 years ago, I screamed in terror,
Running into the street, bare feet in error,
The journey to hospital went by in a blur,
My Partner stopped at the garage, a forced detour...
9 years ago, my mind had gone crazy,
I limped in the hospital, reality hazy,
Surely I'd only just broken my hip,
I couldn't remember? did I fall? did I slip?
9 years ago, I was admitted to a psychiatric
ward,
Not a Mother and Baby unit, like some reward,
Men and women, all out o f their minds,
I thought they wanted to poison or rape me, it
takes all kinds.
9 years ago, I lay on the #loor,
Screaming like a toddler, I could take no more,
Surely this would wake me up?
Save me from this hell close up...
9 years ago, I pulled my bedcovers tight,
The curtain surrounded me, I prayed in fright,
A patient rampaged through the night,
I'm sure she thought in her head, that she was
alright...
9 years ago, I escaped
from hell,
I really thought I'd been
locked in a cell,
A voluntary prison to keep me from harm,
At one low point, I'd set off the alarm...
9 years ago I convinced a panel,
That I could control the voices, switch over the
channel,
They let me home to see my baby,
Unable to breastfeed, not a chanc e, not a maybe.
9 years ago, a decision I made,
No longer was I going to live life afraid.
I grew strong, I grew brave, I took daily action,
Came o ff o f my meds, despite their reaction.
9 years ago I lost my twin sister,
A surreal experience, how I wept, how I missed
her,
My body just went through the motions,
All around me was grief, I was full of trapped
emotions.
9 years ago I turned to the light,
Faced my fears daily with a positive might,
Looked after myself, made sure that I slept,
Ate regularly, exercised, my mind I just kept...
9 years ago, I came back from the brink,
I'm a #ight er, a survivor, I was saved, didn't sink.
My faith grew more with each passing day,
My husband, my rock, by my side did he stay.
9 years ago I beat mental illness,
Today, I'm more calm, mindful in stillness,
Meditation I practice, self love and awareness,
Never look back in anger, but was I treat ed in
fairness?
Fast forward 9 years and what c an I do?
To make a difference, to a lot, not a few?
I'm lucky, I'm grateful, for I have survived,
For others, a different ending, women have died...
Today, I stand tall to combat the stigma,
Postpartum illness is still an enigma,
If you feel strongly, then just share my post,
Amen to the father, the son, and the Holy Ghost.
31
All too o&en when we pass a milestone or achieve
something that has been a challenge for us the
importance of our achievements are overlooked or we
aren't acknowledged as much as we should be. So, here in
the newsle=er, we would like to take a moment to say a
few words about some of the things you have done or
achieved recently.
Well done to Marissa for running your
#irst User Forum Group.
You have been with us for four years and
have gone from strength to strength.
Taking part and running groups is a
great achievement. We wish you every
continued success in running the women’s group after Claire.
It is called the Unicorn Group in her memory. Please see more
details on our events page.
Well done to Hazel for taking
m aths and English evening
classes
We would all like to send
Congratulations to Mazza and a
huge achievement standing next
to Bishop Trevor, at her con#irmation in St Lawrence church on
Thursday 12th November.
A big well done from us all here at
SpeakUpCIC
32
Winter months....
Seems a few people are feeling down lately and I
wondered if you feel that the darker days affect you?
Fas t approaching is the seasonal period tha t has both happy 'n' sad "mes 'n' memories coupled wi th
hi ghs 'n' lows , more of the la=er where the change of "me onl y adds to those who suffer SEASONAL
AFFECTIVE DISORDER "SAD"( aptl y na med reall y ).
Anyone can get the blues, though servi ce users a re more suscep"ble, le& unchecked, i t is a very
bad "me of yea r for them.
I myself ha ve suffered from SAD, hoping I can spot the da nger signs , i t is not jus t feeling down.
There will be many si tes on the internet where informa"on can be found.
Ea ch of Us can help one another by keeping in touch over the fes"ve season, ei ther via telephone, mobile, text and of course in pers on. Don't be afraid to chat about how you feel, i f sufferi ng
from SAD, don't be a fraid to listen to someone, we've all been there.
Da vid Wans tall. www.nhs .uk and look for SAD
Sea rch SAD
Changing Seasons.
Golden shea ves swa y in the wi nd,
as the sun brings col our to them
as they grow.
Ma chines and men collect them in
as the Indian summer takes hold,
to bring forth the ha rvest.
Ha rves t shows golden colour; a nd
bronzes
and gold, as the autumn
season progresses.
Lea ves fall, and compress down as
crea tures and bugs ma ke
the compos t needed for
new growth Gods' ga rden is forever
changing as
the ci rcle of life con"nues yea rl y.
See the love that na ture embra ces !
Life is a colourful ci rcle
of love,
ever changing and
puLng new meaning to the
worl d we li ve in.
Take "me to put connec"on to this
planet we call EARTH.
Pa v.=
Music Appreciation
Music heals, so when I
heard about
a new group titled ‘music
appreciation’ I was very
excited.
To take along a piece of
music that has meaning
for us all was the challenge.
We were led by the wonderful Kay.
Listening soon turned in to dancing, singing and lots of
laughter.
Thursday afternoons are my favourite time of the week, 2
hours goes by far too quickly.
A place for fun, for exercising, it’s a place to fully relax and
be ourselves, no matter how loud.
Each week our Finale is ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and so to
this we sing, dance and get very loud.
Often passing members of the public look in the large window, there is a sense of amazement on their faces. I think
they wish their days were like ours.
33
Thanet User Forum
What’s going on in Thanet?
Thanet Users Forum
Every
Last Monday
Mondayof the Month
StJohn’s
John’s Community
Road,
St
CommunityCentre,
Centre,Victoria
Victoria
Road,
Margate.
We
welcome
comments
and
views
on all
Margate. We welcome comments and views
on all
issues
concerning
your
mental
health
care
provided
issues concerning your mental health care proby the mental health services. Service users can
vided
by the mental health services. Service usdiscuss these issues together highlig hting gaps in
ers can discuss these issues together highlightservices, improving exciting services and
ing
gaps in services, improving exciting services
establishing new services. Come along and join us
and
new
services. Come along and
for establishing
a cup of tea or
coffee.
join us for a cup of tea or coffee.
Richmond Fellowship Thanet Community Service
Information
Desk and Drop in
Members’ Forum
Thanet
Plus,
Cecil Square,
Open toGateway
all Thanet
Community
Service Members.
Discussing Mental health Services and to influence
Margate.
We meet twice monthly on a Tuesday
the delivery of Mental Health Service Provision.
to give out information about mental health reBeacon
Forum
lated
issues
& SpeakUpCIC, and to take on is-
sues
raised
the public
relating
to mental
Manston
Rd,by
Margate.
A Service
Users
forum to
health
discussprovision.
matters relating to the provision of Mental
Health Services.
Ramsgate Women’s Forum
LGBT
Forum
Margate
Women’s Forum
Meets
bi– monthly
at theand
Media
Centre on
TuesThe
Lesbian,
Gay, Bisexual
Transgender
Forum
days.
Call
in gfor
cup meets
of teaonand
a chat basis.
and
is
a self
help
roupa and
a monthly
This
meetis other
an opportunity
like-minded
to meet
women.
new Feeds
people in
back
a warm
into
friendly
atmosphere.
the users
forum
“John Baker” Art Group
Walk & Talk
Meets once a week contact Maggie for more de-
Media Centre, King St, Margate.. All abilities
welcome, come along for a chat, tea and biscuits
tails. Come along, air your views and get fit at
and to have a go at anything arty! Meets
the same time and meet- like minded people
fortnightly.
Monday Group
Lunch every
Club Monday at St. John’s Community
Meets
Meets once a month contact Maggie for more
Centre. Come along and take part in the various
details we arrange, Speakers of topics you’d like
activities
to
. know about, fun quizzes, wellbeing workshops
and more.
Bipolar Support Group
Music Appreciation
Meets monthly at the Media Centre for support
Richmond
Fellowship Thanet Day Service
Meets Third Thursday of the month
Meets weekly—come along and join in as the group
Members Forum
shares their love of music. Bring along a CD you like
Goose, Harbour Street, Ramsgate
Call in for
a cup ofPlus,
tea and
chat and Margate.
meet other
Thanet
Gateway
Cecila Square,
like-minded women. Feeds back into the users
Open
to all Thanet Day Service Users. Discussforum
and understanding for those with Bipolar.
and dance your troubles away!
Relaxation
group
Computer
Club
ing Mental health Services and to influence the
Meets
month at
the Media
Centre.
Meetsonce
oncea month
contact
Maggie
for Come
more de-
delivery
Mental Forum
Health Service Provision.
Margateof
Women’s
along
tails and drop-in for this new group and talk
Meets bi– monthly at the Media Centre on
Tuesdays. Call in for a cup of tea and a chat and
meet other like-minded women. Feeds back into the
Beacon
users forum.
through your issues and problems with your laptop
and computer, such as emails, Facebook and
internet
LGBT Forum
security.
Manston Rd, Margate. A Service Users forum to Creative
The GayWriting
Forum is a self help group and meets on
Walk & matters
Talk
Contact
Maggie
for
moreisas
information
oncreate
how a
discuss
relating to the provision of
a monthly
basis.
This
an
Come
and join
the group
you ,jointly,
Meets every Tuesday at the Margate Clock Tower
for a Walk along the Seafront. Come along, air your
to
join
East Kent
User
Forums
book
for
publishing
filled
with
your in
short
stories,
opportunity
to meet
new
people
a warm
views and get fit at the same time and meet- like
friendly atmosphere. Meets once a month.
Mental Health Services.
minded people
Women’s Forum
Meets
Thursday
of the month
Bipolarsecond
Support
Group
Goose,
Meets monthly
HarbouratStreet,
the Media
Ramsgate
Centre for support
Disabled
Access for those with Bipolar.
and understanding
Call in for a cup of tea and a chat and meet other like-minded women. Feeds back into the users
forum
poems,
inspirational
of your past – or
Maggie
Gallantaccounts
- Team Leader
anything you’d like to contribute.
66a High Street, Margate, Kent CT9 1DT
For more information do call us on
Tel:Art
01843
230726
John Baker
Group
01843 448384 or email us on
[email protected]
Media Email:
Centre,
King St, Margate. Come All [email protected]
ties welcome, come along for a chat, tea and
biscuits and to have a go at anything arty!
34
Dover, Deal and Ashford
Deal Service Users’ Forums
Deal Ability Centre, Pathways to Wellbeing, MCCH,
43 Victoria Road, Deal CT14 7AY
Meets first Friday of the month at 11am.
Positive Ways at looking at depression
The Joe Fagg Centre, St. John’s Lane, Ashford,
TN23 1QD. Meets Tuesdays at 11.00am.
Come along and air your views on local mental health
services.
Magazine Group
The Joe Fagg Centre, St. John’s Lane, Ashford,
Speakers’ Forum
Deal Ability Centre, Pathways to Wellbeing, MCCH,
43 Victoria Road, Deal CT14 7AY.
Meets first Friday of the month at 11am. The forum
TN23 1QD. Meets Tuesday at 11.00am.
invites a professional to come and speak to the group
We meet every Tuesday afternoon at Ashford
Ashford Peer Support—Afternoon
Gateway Plus at 1.30pm for different peer support
Deal Talk It Out Forum
SpeakUpCIC holds a Users’ Forum every two months
with Deal’s Talk it Out Group. Come along for your
say about local mental health services.
activities.
Through the different forum activities people
can share their experiences and views in a safe
and confidential environment, either individually
Dover Service Users’ Forum
MCCH pathways to wellbeing, 1AGranville Street,
Dover, CT16 1AA .Meets 2nd Wednesday of the
month at 11am. Come along and air your views on local
mental health services.
or in groups. The forum facilitator can then
r e pre se nt
the se
vie ws
and
conce rns
(anonymously, if desired) to the organisations
responsible for planning and providing mental
health services. Through the groups members
Information Drop-In
can therefore be involved in helping develop
Meeting at the Dover Discovery Centre on the 2nd
their local services with a view to ensuring that
Wednesday of the month at 1:30pm. Come along for
people are provided with the necessary help
a chat about your local mental health services.
they want, when they want it.
Ashford Service Users’ Forums
For more information about the groups, if
The Live-it-well Centre, Canterbury Road, Ashford.
you’d like to get involved, please speak to
Meets first Tuesday of the month at 11.00am.
someone at your Forum, call us on 01843
Come along and air your views on local mental health
services.
448384 or
email us on [email protected]
LGBT Forum
The Gay Forum is a self help group and meets on a
monthly basis. This is an opportunity to meet new
people in a warm friendly atmosphere. Meets once a
month at Ashford Gateway
35