Anyone who knows Ventnorian Kirsty Chapman, will know that she’s an incredibly determined individual. When she sets her sights on something, Kirsty will put all her efforts into achieving her goals.
Having seen the detrimental impact that the Covid pandemic has had on those in her local community, Kirsty has been working on plans to open the not-for-profit Better Days Cafe Inclusion Hub, a safe space offering training and work experience for those who feel excluded, as well as providing vital mental health support.
Well qualified
With a Childhood Studies degree under her belt, Kirsty has worked in mental health for many years as a support worker, and is currently training to become a counsellor.
As well as that, she’s recently completed a self harm and suicide prevention course and a mental health first aid course, so is well qualified to lead the project.
Chapman: I have every confidence in it working
A premises in the centre of town has been secured and Kirsty told News OnTheWight,
“So I’m just going ahead. I have every confidence in it working.
“I’d like to offer workshops for young people and their parents who are affected by this. Then during the day, placements for people to work and gain experience.”
At least one organisation that works with those who feel excluded from being offered work, has told Kirsty that they are happy for their clients to gain work experience with the project.
Show your support
Kirsty has launched a fundraiser to make this ambition come true. She says,
“People with mental health issues and learning disabilities are the invisible. Often feeling socially excluded and lonely. A large amount of these people will never have worked, worn uniform or felt part of a team.
“The Better Days Cafe aims to train and offer work to these people promoting inclusion and alleviating loneliness.
“This will be a safe, warm space offering mental health support, workshops and advice. Please help make this happen.
If you would like to show your support for the project, head over to the Better Days Cafe Just Giving Page.
At time of publishing the fundraiser had reached £460 of the £1,000 target.
Image: Dayne Topkin under CC BY 2.0
