LOCAL mental health charity West Kent Mind (WKM) has set the dates for its annual ‘Wear it Blue’ fundraiser and is hosting a series of creative workshops across Tunbridge Wells.
Between May 15 and May 21, residents are encouraged to show their support for the charity’s wellbeing and mental health work by wearing blue on one or more days.
The charity’s Marketing Manager, Louise Griffiths, said: “We are appealing to everyone in our community to help us turn West Kent into a sea of blue for Mental Health Awareness Week.
“We want everyone to feel comfortable talking about mental health and seeking support when they need it, and by wearing blue, our West Kent Mind colour, you will help us to raise awareness and to create a supportive community.”
Supporters can tag the charity @westkentmind on social media and use the hashtag #wearitblueforWKM.
The charity has also announced its new, three-year project, Creative Minds, which sees a variety of six-month creative programmes, from music and creative writing to painting and puppetry to improve mental health.
Mind’s workshops kick off on Monday May 15, with ‘Explore Printmaking’ with Nell Price at Arty Farty Retreat, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells from 1.30pm to 3pm.
There will also be ‘Beginners to Knitters’, led by Laura Olley from Yarns of Anarchy starting on Thursday May 18 at the Foyer space, Christ Church, Tonbridge from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
Funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, the professionally-led adult workshops aim to develop creative skills, increase positive emotions, and help to reduce stress.
Donations can be made by text (text 70085 with ‘WKM’ and the amount, for example ‘WKM5’ to donate £5) or online at JustGiving.com/campaign/WKMWearItBlue
