THE ‘INSPIRATIONAL’ work of a Rugby volunteer service which helps residents improve their mental health has been praised by the town’s MP.
Mark Pawsey visited ConnectWELL, a service which helps people working to improve their mental health by introducing them to community activities and groups.
The free service won Team of the Year at the Pride of Rugby Awards earlier this year, and is recommended by 98 per cent of its patients.
He said: “I was delighted to meet the team at ConnectWELL to hear about the valuable work they are doing to support and encourage individuals to get out and meet new people.
“After listening to some inspiring success stories, it is obvious that ConnectWELL can positively change the lives of people here in Rugby.
“Rugby has a great sense of community spirit. I’ve met with hundreds of local organisations which do incredible work throughout the constituency but all too often, those who perhaps most need this support don’t even know that they are there.
“That is why the work of ConnectWELL is so important and their success at the Pride of Rugby Awards earlier this year was thoroughly deserved.”
The service refers people to over nine hundred voluntary and community sector activities in Rugby.
As well as working closely with local GPs, ConnectWELL offers a personalised buddy-system supporting those lacking in confidence to pursue their interests and get involved in the wider community.
Paul Tolley, Chief Executive of Warwickshire Community and Voluntary Action (WCAVA), said: “We are so proud of our team of employees and volunteers.
“People who use ConnectWELL can choose something that suits them from the vast array of local community provision of support groups, lunch clubs, specialist interest and leisure activities, exercise classes, or advisory services for housing or employment issues.”
Visit www.wcava.org.uk/connectwell for more information.
