Mental health and wellbeing in Honiton is set to benefit from a substantial cash injection thanks to a local charitable organisation.

Honiton Hospital and Community League of Friends has set aside over £200,000 to support three local initiatives.

Chair Heather Penwarden said: "One of the current priority areas for our support is the mental health and wellbeing of all ages across the community.

"We believe that anyone facing a mental health challenge should not be alone.

"The coronavirus pandemic is impacting on all our lives, however those already living with mental health problems are facing additional challenges."

At the January 2021 meeting, trustees were unanimous in agreeing to significantly invest in the community's mental health and wellbeing.

Honiton Admiral Nurse

Recognising that living under the restraints of a lockdown is especially challenging for people with dementia and their families.

£100,000 has been allocated to support Honiton's specialist dementia nurse which will be added to by a further sizeable contribution from the Honiton Admiral Nurse fundraising group.

Parental Minds

Parental Minds, a relatively new group set up in Honiton, who aim to foster mental healthcare for young people have been allocated £4000.

This will support the development of the service, including setting up a network for families living with eating disorders.

Music therapy sessions

"We have been entrusted with a legacy from a local musician to support and improve people's health through the provision of music therapy," Heather continued.

"We currently fund sessions of a qualified music therapist to work in a few of our Honiton care homes.

"We plan to extend this service to other care homes in the town, when it is safe to do so, and to fund further sessions with a music therapist within primary care.

"We sincerely hope that the work arising from these donations will go some way to helping people who are struggling with their mental health through this pandemic and beyond."

Honiton Hospital and Community League of Friends support the hospital and the wider community with money raised through donations, legacies, fundraising efforts and from registered members who donate a small amount each year.

If you wish to support the valuable work carried out by The League of Friends, you can register for a minimum donation of £5 per year.

For further details email [email protected] or phone 07966135442.