Published by Redbridge Concern for Mental Health

Thank You

A big thanks to everyone who responded to our competition. The new title for our e-newsletter is: 'The Redbridge Link'.

Thanks, also to everybody who sent in comments, suggestions and emails of support. As a result of the feedback we have updated our info directory to include sections for Carers and Befriending.

Crest Drop-In

Crest Waltham Forest have informed us that their Saturday Drop-In is open to Redbridge residents. It is based at the Ferguson Centre, Walthamstow and runs from 12.30pm to 6.00pm. A meal is provided plus other activities including pool, discussions and occasional outings.

To find out more email Martin Couldridge or phone Crest on 020 8520 1592 or alternatively check out the details on our website

Mental Health Services for Older People Trust Conference

Nelmht are holding a conference on Tuesday 21st March with a range of different speakers and sessions including Martin Orrel, Professor of Ageing and Mental Health, University College London.

For further information please email Jo Byrne. Or alternatively download the booking form and programme here.

RUN-UP Conference: 'Your Service, Your Recovery'

A one day conference is planned for July 6th 2006 for Service Users and Carers. The theme for the day is the recovery model as well as a review of mental health services in Redbridge in light of all the recent changes. Mark Leveson, Head of User Participation & Development, at the London Development Centre for Mental Health, and a service user will chair the Day. The event runs from 10.00am to 3.30pm and the venue is the Shout Cafe, 3 Clements Road, Ilford next door to the Cine World Cinema.

To book a place and for further information Email Christine Bullivant or phone her on 020 8970 5890.

Run Up also publish a newsletter which you can read here

Tableaux Project

The Tableau or Living Painting is a scene presented on stage by a striking group of suitably costumed models, carefully posed and often theatrically lit. Across four sessions, participants will be involved in all aspect of the creative work from brainstorming initial ideas, costume design, set design, make-up and taking the role of the actors.

For more info contact Jackie Ede (tel: 020 8970 4043) or alternatively download the flyer here

Small Grants make a big difference

A reminder that the Capital Volunteering Redbridge small grants programme ends on March 31st. So if you have a project that tackles issues of mental health and social exclusion by increasing volunteering opportunites for mental health service users than apply for a small grant which range from £500 up to £5,000.

For more information email Duduzile Moyo, the Redbridge Capital Volunteering Co-Ordinator or phone her on: 020 8970 6011.

Policing and Mental Health

I recently read an interesting report produced by the Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA) which examined in depth the approach taken by the police towards people with mental health problems. The report recognises that the Police have an obligation to take a lead "in challenging the misperceptions and myths that have developed in relation to mental illness." And, in particular to challenge and "dispel the myths of the links between mental illness and violence."

You can read the report and download copies here.

National Men's Health Week 2006

National Men's Health Week (NMHW) 2006 will run from 12-18 June. The key objective is to increase men's awareness of mental wellbeing, and to encourage services to work more effectively with men, to improve their mental wellbeing. To receive regular updates about the week and a free resource pack, visit the Men's Health Forum Website.

Dolphins part 2

One of our readers (actually Jo who designed our website and newsletter) read the British Medical Journal study which suggested swimming with dolpins can relieve depresssion. He correctly pointed out that some of the participants dropped out. Imagine that an all expenses paid trip to sit in the sun and frolick with dolphins and packing it in after a few days. I wonder how my GP would feel if after forking out for a ticket I returned early deciding I would prefer some other treatment option. I think I'm slowly being persuaded by the choice agenda.....

And, finally

I hope you found the newsletter useful if you have any comments, suggestions or criticisms then please let me know. And, please continue to send in information about events, jobs etc

Jon Abrams
Web Site Editor
Redbridge Concern for Mental Health
98-100 Ilford Lane
Ilford, Essex, IG1 2LD
Web Site: www.rcmh.org.uk
Email:rcmh@btconnect.com
Telephone: 020 8925 2435

Company Limited by Guarantee No. 3115971
Registered Charity No. 1065770

Disclaimer

Redbridge Concern for Mental Health does not accept legal responsibility for the contents of this message. Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Redbridge Concern for Mental Health unless otherwise specifically stated.