COULD YOU BE A HILLINGDON MIND BEFRIENDER?
Imagine not having anyone at all who cares for you, or about you. People in this situation may lose confidence in their ability to manage everyday life and feel anxious and lonely.
The Befriending Scheme at Hillingdon Mind gives friendly one-to-one support for those who are experiencing mental distress and feel vulnerable and isolated. It provides a vital bridge into the community for those who would otherwise be unlikely to access mental health services, or those who have little or no social contact.
In addition, it offers a one-to-one link to people who may become anxious in group situations, or when leaving their home. The 'Befriender' meets with their 'friend' for a year during which time they build up a positive relationship together.
The volunteer provides social stimulus, company and practical support, encouraging their 'friend' not only to participate in daily living, but also to access information about community resources and take part in leisure or learning activities.
Although the Befriending relationship is a managed relationship and has stricter boundaries than a 'normal' relationship, it is based on respect, confidentiality and trust. The development of this relationship increases self-esteem and social skills and helps to reduce the social isolation felt by many people experiencing mental distress, thus promoting confidence and integration into the community.
All volunteer 'Befrienders' receive training to gain a range of skills and abilities and receive regular supervision and support.
If you would like further information on becoming a 'Befriender' or an informal chat about the Befriending Scheme please contact Leigh Kennedy the Befriending Scheme Co-ordinator.
Hillingdon Mind Office: 01895 271559 ext. 27 Mobile: 07956 395072
E mail: leigh@hillingdonmind.org.uk
NEW CHOIR MEMBERS NEEDED AT ST GILES' CHURCH
We need to recruit some new members to maintain the strength of our choir. In particular we need more boys and girls, and we are working on this. Adult sopranos would be particularly welcome, along with those who can sing alto, tenor, or bass. If you feel you might be able to help lead the music at our services (9.45 a.m. each week with Choral Evensong at 6.30 p.m. on the second Sunday of the month) and can attend choir practise on a Friday evening, please contact Choirmaster John Miley on 07710 403380
The opening of the new Post Office counter, based in Mace Convenience Express will be 10th November. There is a large official notice to this effect in the shop window.
PIANO AND FLUTE TUITION
Do you want to learn the piano or the flute? Do you want help with music theory, or other music studies? St Giles' Church former assistant organist, James Mooney-Dutton, has just moved back to Ickenham, and is available as a music tutor. To find out more visit www.mooneydutton.com or get in touch on 07773 143258.
ADVANCE NOTICE OF ST GILES' CHURCH CHRISTMAS MARKET
Please come and support our Christmas Market on Saturday 10th December. It will be held in St Giles' Church Hall between 10 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. This year the proceeds are in aid of the Yeldall Homeless Project and St Giles' Church Hall Fund. Stalls will include cakes, plants, table decorations, jewellery, craft gifts, books and many more. Santa will be with us. Light refreshments will be available and the Grand Draw will take place at 12.15 p.m. Entrance is 50p and under 16s are free.
Receipt is acknowledged, with grateful thanks, of the following donations towards the cost of I.C.N.: Mrs Byrne of Burnham Avenue.
Copy for the December edition should be with me by 13th November.
