Why a Group?

It is always easier to understand other people and help with their difficulties than it is to understand and help oneself. In our groups the members learn to apply this understanding to themselves. Through the support and encouragement from other members of the group, and the group convener, initiatives are seen as being possible, helping people to move from what their lives are to what they might be.

		In a group members learn they are not alone.
		They feel able to speak because they are in a friendly and accepting situation.
		Members can make social and supportive contacts with any other participants in the group.
		They come to learn how their emotional needs can be more fully met.

'Members can become self therapists'

Group Setting

The groups have 5 to 9 members meeting weekly for one and a half hours. They have an informal seating arrangement promoting spontaneous dialogue (rather than a set time for each member to talk in turn). Members are encouraged to treat other members as they themselves would like to be treated.

The groups are open, new members joining as appropriate. The Association is self-financed and there is a fee of £15 per week for a group place (concessions available for students and unemployed people). There are a few rules but regular attendance is desirable as is consideration for other group members.

Convener's Role

Conveners convening the groups have a background in psychotherapy and counseling and have had personal experience of depression.

The convening is non-directive but when appropriate, intervening, interpretive and protective.

The Support Groups

These groups address depression and depressive anxiety, dealing with apathy, loneliness, low self-esteem, isolation, frustration and stigmatisation. The groups help their members move away from depression and find viable alternatives.

There are also groups which focus on specific personal concerns.

		Shyness and social anxiety
		Personal relationships
		Low self-esteem

These groups are included in the appropriate programmes. These programmes were created as a result of experience with the specific concerns listed above.

Taking Things Further

We offer a free assessment for anyone wanting to take part in any of our activities. See Taking Things Further.