Helping people who are down in the dumps

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A LITTLE-known service in Warrington can help people who are feeling low or anxious.
The borough council’s well being service helps people turn their lives around and wants to spread the word that there is help available to those who need it.
Residents could be referred to a wellbeing mentor by their GP or housing provider or they can self-refer.
Duncan Harper, 58, from Great Sankey is proof that their support is working.
He was referred to the wellbeing service by the Warrington Mental Health Outreach Team in August last year after a series of life changing situations left him feeling low and anxious.
The mentor worked with Duncan on a plan for him to make positive lifestyle changes.
The mentor identified that Duncan had valuable experience of supporting disadvantaged individuals and a passion for community outreach and suggested he become a wellbeing volunteer.
With this support, Duncan started working in the neighbourhood and communities’ central team office in Orford. Since then he has volunteered his time at many community events including last year’s winter warmth event providing the most isolated older people in Warrington with vital support and information.
Cllr Pat Wright (pictured), the council’s lead member for health, wellbeing and adult services, said: “I am delighted that Duncan and many other people are able to transform their lives as a result of the dedicated support that the community wellbeing mentors offer.
“You can be referred via a range of partners including your GP, school, housing provider, or you can self-refer. If you are aged over 16 and struggling to make changes in your life, please call the service and find out how they can help. I am extremely proud of the wellbeing service and the work they are doing to empower local people.”
Anyone aged 16 or over who is struggling to make changes in their life can call 01925 444279 in confidence for more information on the service and how to become a volunteer.
The wellbeing service is part of a government initiative to reduce health inequalities in Warrington.


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Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.

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