ADULTS struggling with mental health, addictions and daily wellbeing can now talk through their issues and find solutions over a fortnightly cuppa in Poole.
Coffee Connection – a drop-in support hub at Serenitea Café in Ashley Road – is run jointly by Dorset HealthCare’s Poole Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) and Dorset’s Essential Drug & Alcohol Services (EDAS).
The Thursday evening sessions take the form of a ‘talk and share’ supper group, hosted by a qualified therapist who provides expert input, with discussions and a range of activities designed to support self-care.
The project was the brainchild of CMHT leader Lulu Dajani and EDAS executive Michele Lyall.
Lulu said: “Daily wellbeing has improved for those who struggle to prioritise things and can end up feeling overwhelmed. Some have signed up to other courses about health and wellbeing and mixing with other members of the community, while others completed training to develop their sense of purpose and self-confidence.
“There is something for everyone.”
Claudine Rogers started attending Coffee Connection as she was struggling with her mental health. “Everybody comes to the café for different reasons, but we all understand each other,” she said.
“I really enjoy it as it gets me out the house, I can undertake courses and get qualifications, and it’s just a great, friendly and non-judgemental place to come.”
Visit edasuk.org/coffee-connection for more information.
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