The outside world feels like an uncertain place right now, and for a lot of us that can feel overwhelming and scary to say the least. We at Changes Bristol are determined to offer help to anyone who needs us. Every day we are hearing from more and more people who are reaching out for our help.
> We are running online support groups offering confidential spaces and a sense of community to anyone in need of connection.
> We are providing vital 121 phone support to our vulnerable members, giving them the essential support they need right now.
> We've set up a phone befriending service for people who would like a weekly wellbeing check in from one of our friendly trained peer support volunteers to ease feelings of isolation and loneliness. This service is proving very popular with both new and existing members.
I have been attending my local Changes group for nearly a year. I find the meetings supportive, validating and a much needed pressure valve for stress and depression. Connecting with Changes online is helping me to keep some normality in my weekly schedule. Today somebody said that they could feel a lot of empathy pouring out of their screen. That is how I feel. I still have a community. (Hazel, April 2020)
Due to COVID-19 our fundraising events have been cancelled and our corporate sponsors are unable to provide funds; which means that we've had a dramatic dip in income.
We need your help to get through this. We're adapting by moving our fundraising activities online:
Get yourself a Mask for Good , or join our Quiz on 19th June or donate to win abeautifully handmade crochet blanket . Head over to our social media channels, to see what we're up to and how you can get stuck in. Or think creatively and organise your own fundraiser - select 'make a fundraiser' from this page.
In the meantime, your donation is needed to support vulnerable people coping with mental challenges during this difficult time, and for years to come.
£10 will pay for someone to receive their weekly call from a trained Befriender, checking in on their wellbeing and easing feelings of isolation.
£40 will pay for someone to attend a weekly Online Support Meeting for a whole month, giving them with a safe space to talk about their concerns and meet others who can relate.
£100 will pay for 15 people to join an Online Support Group providing them with a sense of community and encouragement to make positive changes to their lives.
£150 will pay for a volunteer to be trained as a Peer Support Facilitator to empower others look after their mental wellbeing.
Changes Bristol has adapted quickly to provide phone and online services to meet the needs of our community. Now we need you to help us to continue this vital work
* Charities pay a small fee for our service. Find out how much it is and what we do for it.
