A hub is available for people in East Lothian to access information, advice and practical support about mental health and wellbeing. Set up in East Lothian Community Hospital, it aims to help people find out about the wide range of services that are available in the local community.
Any adult who is concerned about their own mental health and wellbeing, or supporting someone else’s, can drop in to pick up information or speak to an advisor.
The Hub is run by a team of psychologists at the hospital who are regularly joined by representatives from the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, East Lothian Works, Changes East Lothian, and Community Link Workers from Penumbra.
Dr Alison Wells, Consultant Clinical Psychologist for NHS Lothian, explains: “We started this hub to help signpost patients and visitors to the wide range of therapeutic, wellbeing, practical or social support available.
“Anyone can struggle with their mental health and wellbeing, feel anxious, low or down, particularly during these challenging times. There’s an abundance of services which can help so we encourage anyone who is worried to pop along for a private chat or just to pick up some information.”
The Hub runs every Wednesday between 12noon and 2pm in the foyer just off the main entrance to East Lothian Community Hospital.
It provides access to a range of materials including those from the East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership and local third-party organisations.
NHS clinicians are on hand to help direct people to the information and support available. A Citizen’s Advice Bureau Adviser is also available to help with queries about housing, finances and benefits and other questions.
Fiona Wilson, Chief Officer and Joint Director of East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership, added: “We are really pleased to be able to offer this open-door mental health support to the people of East Lothian.
“Taking the first step and seeking advice can often be the hardest. We hope this resource will encourage people to come forward, no matter how big or small they think the problem may be, and look after their mental health, just as they would their physical health.”
People can also access information about mental health and wellbeing advice and support online at wellbeinglothian.scot and nhsinform.scot
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