Despite being relatively common, many people who hear voices, see visions or have similar experiences feel alone. Fear of prejudice, discrimination, and being dismissed as crazy can keep people silent. At a time when we are told that it is time to talk, it is important that anyone courageous enough to speak out is met with respect and empathy.
Hearing Voices Groups offer people who hear voices a safe and supportive space for people to talk about these experiences. However, in the lockdown all groups are cancelled at a time when people are most in need of connection.
The National Hearing Voices Network is a user-led charity that is raising funds to launch a secure online forum that will provide a safe space for people to connect online, supported by volunteers. They also want to support those without internet by creating and distributing essential coping information.
For such a small organisation, every £1 counts.