18 May

Mental Health Awareness Week

Get help now

Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportunity to raise awareness, share Mind’s services and inspire people to reach out for support.

This year we’re highlighting how the cost of living crisis is affecting the mental health of millions. The uncertainty of watching as our costs spiral can be difficult to bear, and for so many of us, looking after our mental health is often last on our list.

As individuals, as families, as communities – we can’t afford to ignore the impact on our mental health. Whether it’s ourselves, our loved ones, our colleagues, our neighbours or strangers. Every one of us needs to know we’re not alone.

This Mental Health Awareness Week, join the fight for mental health and let everyone know that support is out there.

Get involved

 

Sarah’s story

Sarah works on Mind’s Infoline. In her blog she shares what it’s like answering the phone to people needing mental health support, and why our Infoline is busier than ever.

“When they speak to me, it will often be the first time they’ve explained an entire situation. Even just talking about something can make them feel better.”

Our Infoline is an information and signposting service. You can ask us about mental health problems, where to get help near you, treatment options and advocacy services.

Read Sarah’s blog

 

For those of us who are already struggling with money, the cost of living crisis is even more brutal. So many of us on lower incomes were already making impossible decisions between basics like food, clothing and fuel. This has only got worse. And prioritising our mental health has become more difficult.

If you or someone you know is struggling with money and mental health, visit our support pages to find out how we can help.

Get support

Need support?

Contact our Infoline for information and help.

0300 123 3393

We’re open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday

(except for bank holidays).

16 May

Battle Hill & Linskill Community Development Grapevine Newsletter – 12 May 2023

Slightly lighter than the St Edward’s Crown our budding florists made their own floral, crown centrepieces to celebration the Coronation.
Here is what they had to say about this celebratory session: 
‘You meet so many people with the same interests and learning together helps build new friendships.’ 
‘Loved everything about it. Great to see everyone’s display.’

Feeling inspired? Why not come along to Mike’s potting up demonstration.  Or want to enjoy the nicer weather and connect with your local environment? Then join us for a walking tour around the local area with Keiran-Ann Keilty.

All the details and booking links are below.

 

KEEP LEARNING – Potting up with Mike  
Join Mike Brannigan as he pots up our hanging baskets and containers. This is a practical demonstration where you can ask questions about which plants work well etc.

Potting up demonstration

 

CONNECT – engAGE Film Club 
Join us for the 2022 adaptation of Mrs Harris goes to Paris, starring Lesley Manville.

“A widowed cleaning lady in 1950s London falls madly in love with a couture Dior dress, and decides that she must have one of her own”

The seats go very quickly so please book using the link below.

engAGE activities are funded for people aged 55+

engAGE Film Club

 

TAKE NOTICE – Linskill Heritage Loop 
A guided circular walk starting on the steps of the Linskill centre with Newcastle City Guide Keiran-Ann Keilty.

Wander through time to a tale of murder and hear of bygone days, seeking out some hidden charms along the way! A walk around Tynemouth fringe lasting approximately an hour and half.

**Please note this trip involves a lot of standing, please make sure you wear comfortable shoes and are able to walk at a slow pace approximately 1 mile.

Linskill Heritage Loop

 

KEEP LEARNING – Craft with Amy

Join Amy in June as she teaches how to make fabric flowers using recycled materials.  You will also learn how to make fabric covered buttons!
 
Spaces are limited to 6 so please book using the link below.
 

TAKE NOTICE – Sunderland Heritage Tour 
We are heading south of the water to explore Sunderland’s heritage in this trip. 

Our first stop is a walking tour of Edwardian Bishopwearmouth, which will explore the historic landmark buildings, innovative architecture and life in Sunderland at the turn of the 20th century. 

After lunch we will join the curate of Sunderland Minister for a tour of this impressive building before heading home.

**Please note this trip involves a lot of standing, please make sure you wear comfortable shoes and are able to walk at a slow pace covering approximately 1 mile.

The mini-bus will pick up at Linskill and Battle Hill.

Sunderland Heritage Tour

 

KEEP ACTIVE – Summer Ceilidh

Join us on Saturday August 12th at 7.30pm for a Summer Ceilidh with the fantastic ‘Nathan Armstrong Northumberland Ceilidh Band – it’s going to be fun!

Tickets cost £12.50 and are available to buy from Linskill reception. 
Adults only please! 
 

**Last chance to book**
KEEP LEARNING – Cross Stitch Workshop
Join Jennifer from ‘Trouvaille Stitch Kits’ for this two-hour cross stitch workshop, perfect for all levels, with no experience needed.

Learn the basics of cross stitch, tips to make stitching easier, and how to do two other types of stitches commonly used within cross stitch designs (straight stitches and French knots) while designing and creating their own personalised piece.

All materials and instructions are provided, and we will even throw in a cuppa or two!

Cross Stitch

 

Can you help?
In July we are holding a craft fair and volunteers will be making items using these envelopes…if you have any spare at home from your Amazon orders we’d be really grateful if you could drop them off at Linskill Reception.
Thank you!

 

Finally, put the date in your diary, the next plant sale is on Thursday 25th May. Cash and card accepted. 

We look forward to seeing you at an activity soon.

Charly, Janice, Lucy and David
Your Community Development team

 

From our friends…

29 Apr

Adult AD/HD Support Group NE Meetings in May 2023

Hi Folks

These are our regional meetings throughout MAY 2023, please download the PDF flyers for further information.

o   Middlesbrough: Tuesday May 2nd: 6-8pm –ish   Lingfield Ash Meeting Hall, 78 Lingfield Ash, Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough TS8 OSU.  Download the Middlesbrough flyer here

o   Durham: Thursday May 11th 6-9pm Waddington Street Centre, 3 Waddington Street Durham City DH1 4BG.  Download the Durham flyer here

o   Sunderland: Wednesday May 17th 6-9 Betsy Jenny Community Well-being Café, 30 Bridge Street, e Sunderland SR1 1TQ.  Download the Sunderland flyer here

o   South Shields: Thursday May 18th 6-9pm Age Concern(ACTS)Dora Dixon House, 29 Beach Road, on the corner of Anderson Street, South Shields NE33 2QU.   Download the South Shields flyer here

o   Newcastle: Thursday May 25th 6-9pm Recoco (The Recovery College) 1 Carliol Square, Newcastle NE1 6UF.  Download the Newcastle flyer here

Kindest regards,

bill

Bill Scott
Adult AD/HD Support Groups North East

aadhd_ne@yahoo.co.uk

07856212564

http://aadhd-ne-uk.weebly.com/

29 Apr

Versus Arthritis

Arthritis is a health condition that affects millions of people of all ages in the UK. It has many forms and is usually debilitating and unpleasant to live with. Charity Versus Arthritis is piloting a new service in North Tyneside over the next six months that will help people to manage their condition and improve their general health.

Regional Officer Liam Ryan says; “We’ll be delivering classes in Chi Me which is a gentle exercise based on Tai Chi. This is suitable for people of all ages and can be done either standing or seated. We’re also doing what we call ‘Bitesize’ information sessions for people living with arthritis that cover topics such as pain management, fatigue, anxiety, and sleep”. Exercise and information sessions will take place weekly until October 2023 and all are free of charge.

The project will bring people living with arthritis from across North Tyneside together to share experiences, learn new ways to manage their condition and improve their general fitness. Participants can attend as many or as few sessions as they like. Click here for more information and to book sessions.

28 Apr

Battle Hill & Linskill Community Development Grapevine Newsletter – 28 April 2023

We went over The Border last week with a sunny trip to Edinburgh! Shopping, a trip to the National Museum of Scotland and lunch were just a few of the activities enjoyed by the day trippers. ‘It was a lovely day…well organised and great fun. We had a few hours to do everything we wanted.’ 

Continue scrolling to find out about our next trip to Whitby – fish and chips anyone?

KEEP LEARNING – Coronation Flower Display * One place left
In recognising King Charles’ love of nature, Amy is back with another floristry workshop focussing on foliage and natural decorative accessories that will look great on your table!

Always popular and at a great price, make sure you secure your place now!

Coronation Flower Arranging

KEEP LEARNING – Craft with Amy 
Join us to make fabric covered notebooks using recycled items, perfect to use yourself or gift to someone else.
Places are limited and open to all adults – please book using the link below.

Craft with Amy

KEEP LEARNING – Soap Making
Join Handmade by Nature as they demonstrate how to make cold press soap, plus have a go at pouring and decorating your own!

There is a charge of £14.50 per person for this session, which is payable in advance. The cost includes tea/coffee, your hand poured soap PLUS one that the tutor made earlier.

Soap Making

KEEP LEARNING – Cross Stitch Workshop
Join Jennifer from ‘Trouvaille Stitch Kits’ for this two-hour cross stitch workshop, perfect for all levels, with no experience needed.

Learn the basics of cross stitch, tips to make stitching easier, and how to do two other types of stitches commonly used within cross stitch designs (straight stitches and French knots) while designing and creating their own personalised piece.

All materials and instructions are provided, and we will even throw in a cuppa or two!

Cross Stitch

TAKE NOTICE – Whitby Trip 
We’re heading to the North Yorkshire Coast for our summer day trip – come and join us!  Will you tackle the steps to the Abbey or enjoy the fish and chips by the harbour…we’re hoping for a sunny day!

Places go quickly – please book using the link below or give us a call on 0191 257 8000.

engAGE opportunities are funded for people aged 55+

Whitby Trip

Coronation Knit & Give
Volunteers have been busy making a little something to help you celebrate the upcoming Coronation – please help yourself.  You will find these ‘little acts of kindness’ on recption and around the building.

Big thank you to our knitters and crocheters!

GIVE – The Bay Foodbank 
Since March the Bay Care Bags (Toiletry Essentials) has donated over 100 bags to The Bay Foodbank. Unfortunately demand is still high and we are appealing for more toiletry essentials. Can you donate any unopened shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste etc? 

If you can please drop your items off at the Linskill Centre (collection box at Reception), Fenwick’s Pharmacy (Farringdon Road) or Newcastle Building Society (Whitley Bay). 

Thank you

From our friends…

Meet @ the Laing is a great opportunity to meet new people, socialise and improve your wellbeing. These are relaxed, friendly sessions and everyone is welcome. 

Each month we will explore a different aspect of the art gallery over a cuppa. We may focus on a specific painting, a theme in our artworks, your own favourites, or an activity.

These sessions are free and open to everyone. No booking required – just drop in.

You are welcome to attend one off sessions, or all if you wish.

For further info please contact Alina in the Communities Team on alina.trewhitt@twmuseum.org.uk

 

North Tyneside Council have asked Healthwatch to undertake a survey looking at how care home residents, their families, and people working in care homes, experienced the pandemic. 

Use the link below for more information and to access the survey.

More info and survey link

 

21 Apr

Health Awareness Event for Minority Ethnic Communities – 9 May 2023

Health Event

Tuesday 9 May from 1pm to 3pm at Whitley Bay Islamic Centre
Are you from a minority ethnic community and registered with a North Tyneside GP? Come along to this free, drop-in, health awareness event – refreshments are provided.

  • Health & blood pressure checks
  • Find out more about social prescribing support
  • Information and advice on cancer screening
  • Voluntary sector projects offering local support and services
  • Check out the new gym facilities at the centre

If English is your second language, you are welcome to bring a friend or family member to the event to support you. Find us at: Rink Way, Hillheads Road, NE25 8HR.

14 Apr

Battle Hill & Linskill Community Development Grapevine Newsletter – 14 April 2023

Big smiles in The Shed last week as volunteers helped people make their very own planters. Here’s what they had to say about it….

“Practical and friendly and enjoyable”
“Thank you. Excellent work shop”
“A chance to try something different without having to fork out lots of money on tools and materials and with the guidance of those who know what they are doing” 
“You learn as you make. Brilliant team effort and the people very helpful”

Watch out for more Shedders workshops throughout the year.

 

KEEP LEARNING – Coronation Flower Display
In recognising King Charles’ love of nature, Amy is back with another floristry workshop focussing on foliage and natural decorative accessories that will look great on your table!

Always popular and at a great price, make sure you secure your place now!

Coronation Flower Arranging

 

KEEP LEARNING – Soap Making
Join Handmade by Nature as they demonstrate how to make cold press soap, plus have a go at pouring and decorating your own!

There is a charge of £14.50 per person for this session, which is payable in advance. The cost includes tea/coffee, your hand poured soap PLUS one that the tutor made earlier.

Soap Making

 

KEEP LEARNING – Cross Stitch Workshop
Join Jennifer from ‘Trouvaille Stitch Kits’ for this two-hour cross stitch workshop, perfect for all levels, with no experience needed.

Learn the basics of cross stitch, tips to make stitching easier, and how to do two other types of stitches commonly used within cross stitch designs (straight stitches and French knots) while designing and creating their own personalised piece.

All materials and instructions are provided, and we will even throw in a cuppa or two!

Cross Stitch

 

TAKE NOTICE – Film Club
In 1961, 60-year-old Kempton Bunton stole Goya’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery in London. He sent ransom notes saying that he would return the painting on condition that the government invested more in care for the elderly. What happened next became the stuff of legend. 

There is no cost to booking is essential.

engAGE opportunities are funded for people aged 55+

Film Club

 

TAKE NOTICE – Art Appreciation
Last few places
Meet us at The Discovery Museum for a guided tour of the textiles store.

engAGE opportunities are funded for people aged 55+

Art Appreciation

 

If you have been tidying up your gardens and have any spare modules/trays and plant pots the Upcycle Gardeners would be very grateful if you could drop them off at reception please! They are also collecting large yogurt pots too.

Lucy, David, Charly and Janice
Your Community Development Team

 

From our friends…

12 Apr

YoungMinds Newsletter – April 2023

Welcome to your April e-newsletter from YoungMinds! The clocks have gone forward, the days are getting longer and warmer, and Spring is here. We hope the lighter days are helping you feel brighter and more energised. But if you’re not feeling a spring in your step, that’s okay. Take things at your own pace 💛
This month’s edition is jam-packed full of exciting updates. It shouldn’t take more than 6 minutes to enjoy all the stories.

 

Success for #EndTheWait at our event in Parliament!

 

On Monday 20th March, we hosted an event in Parliament to drive MPs to support our #EndTheWait campaign. The campaign is calling for the Government to deliver on its promise of ending the crisis in young people’s mental health. The event was a resounding success, with 74 MPs coming along to show their support! 15 of our Young Activists also attended and spoke to MPs face-to-face about their experiences of mental ill-health and what the campaign means to them.This unique opportunity for young people to speak directly with decision makers

wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our amazing campaigners. They’ve come out in their thousands to sign their names on cards, write personal messages to MPs and send direct invites encouraging their local MPs to attend the event. We’re so grateful for their commitment to our movement. This is a huge step for our campaign, and it’s given us even more motivation to continue fighting for a world where all young people can get the mental health support they need, when they need it, no matter what. Watch this space for updates on what comes next!

Find out more about what happened on the day

How we collaborated with Poetic Unity to showcase young Black voices

Every young person deserves to have someone to turn to, to talk about their mental health. But this isn’t always the case. For Black and minoritised young people, racism, stigma and discrimination often overshadow the help or support provided. We need to be better at supporting Black and minoritised young people with their mental health.

To help raise awareness of these issues, we teamed up with Poetic Unity (a poetry collective that empowers young people) to facilitate a workshop with young Black people exploring the question: ‘How can adults respond well to Black young people looking to speak about their mental health?’. Young poets Jayda and Aaron shared their thoughts. Hear their poems below.

Trigger warning: These videos tackle issues surrounding racism, aggression and abandonment.

Listen to Jayda’s poem >

Listen to Aaron’s poem >

Learn more about our collaboration

Supporting young people’s mental health during Ramadan

Ramadan Mubarak to everyone celebrating the holy month of Ramadan! May this month bring happiness and harmony to you and your loved ones. We know that Ramadan is an extremely joyous occasion for many Muslims. However, if a young person you know is finding things tough right now, you may find the following faith-friendly resources useful to share with them.

“Not being able to fast due to a health condition does not make you any less of a Muslim”
Aaliyah, blogger

Help young people to cope with stress using this resource

This national Stress Awareness Month, we’re joining The Stress Management Society in sharing tips and advice on coping with stress. With the rise of social media, ever-growing academic pressure and the cost-of-living crisis, it’s fair to argue that young people are more stressed than ever before. Whether it’s in a professional or personal capacity, use this stress bucket activity with a young person you know. The exercise will help them identify what is causing them stress and what they can do to reduce it. You might even find it useful yourself!

Our new fundraising campaign starts next month

By taking 310,000 steps over 31 days in May, our supporters are helping bring conversations about young people’s mental health #OutInTheOpen. Challenge yourself to walk, skip or run the 310,000 steps and help raise vital funds as part of #TeamYM. No matter how much you raise, your donations will help us continue our mission of making sure all young people get the mental health support they need, when they need it, no matter what. Ready to take on the challenge? Sign up now

Sign up!

📰 Mental health in the media 📰


‘I worry my young patients will die’: UK’s eating disorder services not fit, say GPs
The Guardian, Denis Campbell, 22/03/23
Read the full story > 

Schools have become ‘fourth emergency service’ due to poor mental health and social care for young people
Sky News, Alice Porter, 10/03/23
Read the full story > 

Over a third of Gen Z have struggled with mental health – but don’t seek support
The Mirror, Martin Winter, 06/03/23
Read the full story > 

Services in England for children with special needs to be ‘transformed’
The Guardian, Sally Weale, 02/03/23
Read the full story >

 

✍️ New on the blog this month ✍️

Five self-care tips for depression (Luca, 23)
Read Luca’s blog > 

My experience of chronic illness and mental health (Laura, 21)
Read Laura’s blog > 

Why I decided to leave university and put my mental health first (Jade, 23)
Read Jade’s blog > 

How I learnt to manage panic disorder in school (Charlie, 20)
Read Charlie’s blog >

 

Better your understanding of mental health with one of our online courses

We’ve got lots of great training courses to choose from, all delivered by our friendly YoungMinds trainers, such as:

Find more courses on our website >

 

Our latest tips and advice on Instagram. Follow us @YoungMindsUK

At YoungMinds, we’re leading the movement to make sure every young person gets the mental health support they need, when they need it, no matter what.

Thank you for your ongoing support!

Team YM 💛

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