CONNECT Mental Health Befriending Scheme

Connect is a scheme which, through small groups and one-to-one befriending aims to address the social isolation or loneliness often experienced by individuals living with a mental health problem.

Who do we help?

People who are experiencing mental health problems such as Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia or Bi-polar disorder
People who are isolated or lonely
People who live in the Aberdeen area and want to get out and about
People who feel they could benefit from this scheme

How do we help?

Through small groups and/or one-to-one befriending where individuals meet fortnightly and visit places of local interest or make use of community facilities.

Through the development and subsequent establishment of ordinary, warm relationships with others an individual may experience:

An increase in feelings of confidence, self-esteem and well-being.
An opportunity to meet new people and practice social skills
A chance to share a hobby or an interest.
A way of getting out and about
A sense of belonging to and being apart of the community.

How do I make a referral?

Individuals may be referred through their Community Psychiatric Nurse, Social Worker etc. Referrers should have discussed referral with their client and feel able to take on a supportive role in the proposed befriending relationship or group work and provided appropriate information at point of referral. Alternatively Individuals may self-refer and therefore should provide appropriate information at point of referral and have someone who would support your request i.e. your G.P.

Volunteering with Connect

If you are interested in volunteering with Connect please contact Neil Fraser on 01224 212021 for more information.

Services related to this location include:

Adult and Community Services

Address:

38 Castle Street<br> Aberdeen

Contact: Neil Fraser

Telephone: 01224 212021

Fax: 01224 212021

E-Mail: connect@vsa.org.uk

Also see our other site information in our Locations section.