Dennis

‘I volunteer with the befriending service for Health in Mind, which is connecting with people to try and get them involved in activities in Edinburgh, to give them support, and help, and what they need.

Hopefully after six months they’re in some form of activities, or hobby, that they can enjoy. My working hours are not very predictable but the befriending service is very supportive of this as are my colleagues, so it is great to be able to be part of the service.

Health in Mind is very caring. They are caring, and compassionate. I believe they do the best they can to help people in many different ways, through the many services they offer.

At work it can feel you are working in a bubble. You think everything is okay with colleagues and business partners, you have no awareness of the mental health issues that may be affecting them. Volunteering with Health in Mind has opened my eyes up to how common this is and given me greater insight so hopefully I may be able to offer my support to a colleague or friend in future.

The courses and support Health in Mind offer have been really beneficial to me as a person. As a volunteer, I feel like it’s a win/win situation. I feel I’m helping the community a bit by what I do, but also its broadened my outlook and given me a new awareness.’

If you would like to sponsor a befriender like Dennis, please  email fundraising@health-in-mind.org.uk.