An everyday lifeline for people facing mental health challenges

And every day

Day after day, week after week, BAND is there – providing the regular connection and practical support that helps people rebuild their lives. We joined one of their social groups to hear directly from people whose lives have been transformed by this support.

Connah’s transformation shows the power of this everyday support. Now a regular at BAND activities throughout the week, there was a time when he didn’t speak to anyone and felt very isolated.

He said,

Coming to the group has improved my confidence and having a regular routine is good too – I really enjoy doing the quiz each week with the friends I’ve made here; It’s something I can put in my calendar. I know everyone’s name in the group, and I’ve been able to go and do things I wouldn’t normally.

BAND offers trips to local museums, visits to places of interest, and occasional journeys further afield. They might seem simple, but for someone who’s been isolated, they can make a real difference – a chance to try new things and build confidence. 

Connah adds:

I like exploring and trying new things, but I didn’t think I’d like going on a train or travelling until I went to Liverpool with friends as part of BAND’s out and about group. It was my first time travelling but it’s really helped, and now I want to do it more as I feel like I’m more confident in myself.

The atmosphere is welcoming and informal – people arrive with biscuits for each other, sharing newspapers and conversation. But there’s also professional support behind the scenes. BAND provides one-to-one outreach, helping each person identify their strengths and work towards their own goals. Your donations help make this possible – keeping the doors open and the support available.

BAND also has a greenhouse, which offers people a chance to work with plants and spend time in nature. For many, it becomes a place where they can find purpose and see the results of their work – watching things grow.

Ian started coming to BAND in 2016 when he was struggling with anxiety and depression. Working in the greenhouse has been a lifeline to him.

He said:

I’ve been into gardening before, but I really got back into it through being here. It’s become a passion and I’m now even growing things at home – things like herbs and fruits… I’ve got blackberries and radishes, an apple tree – I’ve really gone for it.

But while Ian loves working in the greenhouse, he knows what truly saved him:

He added:

The best thing about BAND is coming in, meeting people and interacting as it’s not something I do too much outside of here. I feel so much less isolated… It helps me feel understood coming to BAND as I relate better and feel I can relax, and I have friends here so we can support each other.

Janette’s story shows how support can work over time. When blood clots on her lungs meant she could no longer work, which led her to a nervous breakdown. BAND reached out to her at home when she couldn’t leave the house. Gradually, through attending groups and meeting people in similar situations, she began to feel better. She realised that while she couldn’t return to traditional employment, she could use her skills to volunteer – turning her own experience into a way to help others.

These are just three of the people who come to BAND regularly. For them, and many others, this support makes a genuine difference – helping people move from isolation to connection, and giving them a place where they feel understood and valued.

Your support helps keep this everyday lifeline open – so that when people need help, Family Action’s BAND is there for them.