A POPULAR restaurant chain from Dorset have continued their support from mental health by raising more than £30,000 for Dorset Mind over three years.

The Stable’s cider and pizza bars, who have raised £10,204 in the last seven months alone, have worked tirelessly for the charity, raising money through events, charity runs, craft fairs, donations through the tills and Christmas fundraising drives.

The partnership between the organisations has been a perfect fit, as the bars’ own staff have felt the benefit of having fun together during the events, having seen a noticeable change in attitudes towards mental health at work, whilst raising money for the charity. 

The Stable’s Operations Director, David Gough said: “It means a lot to me personally to see our teams come together. Having fun, organising and taking part in fundraising events throughout the year is very rewarding.

“We all take great pride in our relationship with Dorset Mind, and knowing that the money raised benefits our local communities is what it’s all about.” 

Efforts are made year-round, but attention was heightened during Mental Health Awareness Week, which started on October 6. National campaigns and social media activity increase the public’s consciousness of the issue and guiding those who need it towards help and support. The Stable in Bournemouth held a launch party which was well attended by charity members and honorary individuals.

The Stable’s staff, affectionately known as ‘Stablehands’, have run marathons, organised craft fairs, made Christmas decorations, dressed up and have given their time to events and drives too. Customers are given the option to donate via the card payment system, with proceeds going to Dorset Mind and their projects. 

Marianne Storey, Chief Executive of Dorset Mind, said: “We are thrilled to have built such a strong relationship with The Stable and their staff. The benefits of a long-term partnership enables us to make important plans for our future and ensures that we can continue to offer support to those that need it in Dorset.

“The Stable has been incredibly generous to us in so many ways, from lending us meeting space to fundraising amongst their staff teams. We are so excited to reveal more about our upcoming joint venture, which we’ll be launching very soon.”

Next up for the partnership is a project called #KBY (Keep Being You), which will empower people to feel good about their true selves by valuing their own unique interests, skills and identities, spreading the message of how important it is to just be you.  

The union between The Stable and Dorset Mind continues to grow and flourish, with such excitement amongst those involved for what’s to come next.