BY TOBY ROBINSON

WITH facilities for those with mental health problems a hot topic in the borough, one group is looking to spread awareness that it's there to help.

The South Cheshire Community Council, based in Imperial Chambers, Crewe, offers assistance, advice and a whole range of facilities.

Development worker Clair Steele wants to reach out to people who suffer from any degree of mental problem and find out what they think should be on offer to them in this area.

"We do recognise that to get a really representative viewpoint, and to make sure that our voice is heard, we need to dramatically increase our membership." she said.

"The more members we have, the more power we shall have to get our views acknowledged by health and social service authorities.

The group, which was formed in 1991, now boasts 125 members from all over South Cheshire and is staffed by Clair and 15 active volunteers.

Two drop-in sessions, for anyone who would like to discuss a relevant problem or seek advice, are available at the group's town centre base on Mondays and Thursdays, from 1.30 till 4.30pm although the office is manned on weekdays from 9am till 5pm.

Appointments can also be made to see a qualified counsellor by contacting the office.

Clair is anxious to let the general public know if they have any concerns over people with mental health, they are welcome to contact the group for further information.

"I think mental health always gets a bad press, particularly in this area at the moment.

"The media portrays sufferers as bad people when I think statistics show that 1 in every 4 now suffers from some sort of mental problem."

Volunteer Alyson Morrey added: "We just want to educate people this bad image isn't always the case. People who are doctors and lawyers can have mental problems, they are not just from one sector of society.

"There is no age barrier in the group with our youngest member aged 22 and our older members who are 55 plus."

Some exciting projects lie ahead for members in the next few months.

Both music and arts sessions will be open for members to take part in if they choose.

"The arts provide a good platform to express personal feelings," added Clair.

Staff are also enthusiastic about an upcoming project run in conjunction with the borough council and Leighton Hospital, involving four secondary schools from the area which are yet to be decided.

"This will see 15 mental health service users working together with pupils from four schools to produce a piece of art which promotes a positive image of mental health.

"The final images will then be presented to the community.

"It will be a positive experience for all involved. It's important for younger people to understand mental problems and the help they can receive with around 45 per cent of pupils experiencing some form of it, like bullying, while at school."

Fund-raising is vital to the South Cheshire Community Council, a registered charity, and the continuation of its good work.

Several events are in the pipeline, including a charity golf match, and staff are always looking for assistance and are open to ideas.

Contact the South Cheshire Community Council on 01270 252600.