Free mental health support sessions for Eastbourne families

Holding Space supports parents, carers, children and families who are struggling with their mental health.

Hansa Raja-Jones, founder of Holding Space, said, “During this period of isolation we can feel very disconnected from friends and family. We are having to find new ways of living and coping, and for most of us this is really hard.

“We want to reach out to people and support them. To know that you are not alone. We are running three sessions a week and these are informal and friendly.

“We offer a safe, confidential space for people to connect, chat, share strategies, have a laugh and make new friendships.”

Hansa said all sessions are facilitated by a trained volunteer and/or a counsellor. If people need further support and intervention, the organisation can signpost them to an appropriate organisation or therapist.

She said, “To give you an idea on some of our sessions, we have talked about exercise, cooking, baking, watching movies. We have also shared things that have helped us like meditation, apps, online courses and we also have a laugh.

“It’s really lovely seeing friendships made on these groups and people supporting one another outside of the sessions.

“We understand that it’s hard when you are experiencing mental illness so on Zoom you have the option to show or hide your face as well, so please do not be concerned about joining in.

“You don’t have to talk or share either – you can just log in and listen. If you would like to have a chat first we can do that.”

For more information, visit www.holdingspace.org.uk, email [email protected] or see the Facebook page Eastbourneholdingspace

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