A new website has been launched by Dorset Mind to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week (May 15 to 21).

The theme for the week is ‘anxiety’.

The charity has focused on making its range of 1-2-1 and group support, education, and training as accessible as possible for people living with a common mental health problem such as anxiety.

As well as updating the design, the new website aims to remove barriers for people wanting to access support.

Users of Dorset Mind’s services, ambassadors and a cross-section of people with experience of mental health feature on the site.

The charity – part of the Mind network of over 100 local branches in England and Wales – also decided to merge its adult and young people websites in order to provide one clear platform to access information and support.

Other design features include integrated referral forms and application forms, an events/groups calendar and service videos.

Service videos are also available on the charity’s YouTube channel, providing people with the option to view the films with subtitles.

Linda O’Sullivan, CEO, pictured left, said: “We’re delighted to unveil our website rebrand, enabling users with the tools to easily locate help and support.

“We hope this fresh design provides a positive and informative experience for young people and adults looking for information about mental health services in Dorset or seeking further opportunities to get involved with some of the amazing fundraising challenges, education, training, and volunteer opportunities we offer.”

Dr Andy Mayers, Patron for Dorset Mind, added: “I really like the look and feel of the new website.

“I especially like the very clear links for accessing help.

“I am also Patron for Samaritans of Bournemouth and District so I welcome this excellent resource for anyone in crisis or needing support.”

The website was designed by global marketing agency – and Dorset Mind’s charity partner –  Crowd, and built by web agency, Dorset Tech.

The charity has thanked both businesses for their creativity and support.

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Free support as Dorset Mind reunites with The Dolphin again

The Dolphin in Poole has joined forces with Dorset Mind to offer a range of free support during Mental Health Awareness Week.

On Monday and Wednesday, Dorset Mind hosted one-hour training sessions in GATHER with its freelance trainers exploring the current issues impacting people’s wellbeing – and ways of reframing thinking patterns.

On Tuesday there was an opportunity to meet the charity’s ‘Mentoring Minds’ Team in GATHER.

The session provided signposting to the available services that support mental health challenges.

On Thursday, Dorset Mind’s ‘Active Monitoring’ practitioners were on hand to talk about their new 1-2-1 service for young people that can be delivered in schools, GP surgeries or online.

Dorset Mind is providing cost of living and mental health signposting today, Saturday.

Dorset Mind at The Dolphin in 2022.

Supported by BCHA charity and local organisations, it will offer signposting and support for individuals struggling in the current financial climate.

Tomorrow, Sunday, Young Dorset Mind Trustee Calvin Glen will host a free music and mindfulness workshop in GATHER.

Adults and young people will have the opportunity to listen to and create music while exploring mindfulness and meditation practices.

John Grinnell, Centre Manager at The Dolphin, pictured right, said: “We were extremely keen to bring Mental Health Awareness Week back to the centre following the hugely positive feedback we received from the local community last year.

“We are proud to extend our relationship with Dorset Mind to bring even more vital information and education for local people in Poole town centre.”