In a vibrant city such as Liverpool, mental health frequently becomes overshadowed by the demands of daily life. However, through the collaborative efforts of First Person Project C.I.C and My Mate Vinny’s C.I.C, mental wellness is being prioritized within community care. Central to this initiative is the FundaMENTALLY Healthy project, which emphasizes sustainable mental health solutions driven by community engagement. The full impact report can be found here.
Curtis Lopez
Director/Lead Counsellor @ My Mate Vinny’s CIC
A New Approach to Mental Health
First Person Project believes that mental wellness can be sustainably achieved when people come together to support each other. Our service model is based on "people-power," where local individuals are seen and heard for their passions and potential. This community-centric approach creates an environment where mental health support is accessible, non-judgmental, and tailored to the unique needs of every participant.
The FundaMENTALLY Healthy Programme
The FundaMENTALLY Healthy project is a prime example of how FPP's model works in practice. Featuring an eight-week course with sessions on mental health topics and community building, this program is designed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their mental well-being and others around them. The final session even offers a Level 2 First Aid Mental Health Qualification, providing participants with a valuable credential.
The project also includes one-on-one counselling sessions and additional support, thanks to the partnership with My Mate Vinny’s C.I.C. These initiatives ensure that participants receive immediate and personalized care, without the long waiting times typically associated with mental health services.
Real Impact, Real Stories
Curtis Lopez, the Director and Lead Counsellor at My Mate Vinny’s C.I.C, shared his personal journey, which inspired the creation of his counselling service. After losing his brother to suicide and experiencing the shortcomings of traditional mental health services, Curtis was driven to provide a more inclusive and understanding support system. This collaboration with FPP has offered 120 hours of counselling to 15 individuals, significantly impacting their lives.
One participant noted, "Nice and friendly. No judgments made. Nice to have a space where I can talk about anything."
Building a Healthier Future
The FundaMENTALLY Healthy project is not just about immediate mental health support; it’s about building lasting social cohesion and empowering individuals to become active citizens in their communities.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the FundaMENTALLY Healthy program sign-up at the link below. The programme is FREE for all with no waiting lists.
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