DORSET Community Foundation is working with NHS Dorset and Community Action Network to distribute another £1 million in funding to grass roots community groups and charities for mental health projects that alleviate pressure on clinical services.

Two years ago DCF awarded £1 million in funding through the Community Wellbeing and Mental Health Fund to 53 groups across Dorset for projects that benefitted more than 6,500 people.

DCF Grants Manager Ellie Maguire said NHS management was so impressed with the outcome of the grant programme, they have committed to a further £1 million in funding. “This is fantastic news for the voluntary sector and for the thousands of people struggling with their wellbeing and mental health,” she said.

“We will be able to help groups continue the work they started as a result of the first tranche of funding, as well as support many new ones. We’re thankful to NHS Dorset for the continued faith it has shown in us and in the voluntary sector to deliver this important work.”

Two-year grants of up to £20,000 and one-year grants of up to £5,000 are available. Around two-thirds of the funding will be awarded to projects and activities previously funded, but more than £300,000 will be available when applications for grants open on June 29.

The grants will be aimed at non-clinical projects and activities that support people to improve their wellbeing and mental health, help people to build resilience or enable people living with mental health conditions to participate in activities that support their recovery and wellbeing.

The previous round of funding supported a variety of activities, including walking and outdoor swimming groups, drop-ins, art and crafts, music, drama, debt, welfare and benefits advice, community meals and coffee mornings.

“We saw a wonderful range of projects driven by the need in communities and, in many cases, the lived experience of people running those activities,” said Ellie. “Many of those supported spoke of the different ways in which they are more resilient and have better tools and social networks to support their ongoing wellbeing in the long term .

“We are confident there’s a reduced likelihood that these people will seek NHS appointments or need clinical interventions.”

We are confident there’s a reduced likelihood that these people will seek NHS appointments or need clinical interventions

Among the projects funded was B Sharp in Bridport, which ran 52 weekly sessions of music-based support groups for new parents or carers who were experiencing poor mental health and social isolation. The group said 230 people reported improved mental health and wellbeing.

Chill Dorset ran eight-week sea swimming courses to support 65 participants at Avon Beach, Branksome Chine and Weymouth Beach. One beneficiary said: “The Chill Dorset coaches are amazing, their knowledge, support and kindness helped me through my fears and every swim is just joyous.”

More than 270 people went to craft and nature activity sessions run by Island Community Action on Portland, with 263 saying they improved their mental health and wellbeing.

In Jolly Good Company used a grant to run get-togethers, called Jolly Days, in north and east Dorset for more than 100 older people. One beneficiary said: “My depression got worse when I lost my husband. I believe going to the Jollys helps me cope with depression better.”

Mark Smith, Lead Commissioner for All Age Mental Health at NHS Dorset, said: “We know that lots of great work happens in local communities to support people’s mental health and wellbeing and that social inclusion and meaningful activity is so important in a person’s recovery from mental health challenges. This is a fantastic opportunity and we look forward to exciting projects and initiatives over the coming months.”

Karen Loftus, CEO of CAN, which will provide pre-application support for groups, added: “We know that lots of great work happens in local communities to support people’s mental health, and that social inclusion and meaningful activity are so important in a person’s recovery.

“We have been working hard to bring more investment into Dorset’s amazing charities and community groups because we know what life-changing work they do. We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Dorset Community Foundation and NHS Dorset to make this a reality.”

Applications for grants are open until midday on August 6. Find out more about eligibility and how to apply here.

Pictured: Chill Dorset ran eight-week sea swimming courses to support 65 participants at Avon Beach, Branksome Chine and Weymouth Beach

Pictured: In Jolly Good Company used a grant to run get-togethers, called Jolly Days, in north and east Dorset

Pictured: More than 270 people went to craft and nature activity sessions run by Island Community Action on Portland