What we’re about
l am a 50 year old woman living with bi-polar disorder, l was diagnosed ten years ago now at the age of 40.
Prior to experiencing psychosis, mania and clinical depression and frequent hospitalisations l had a very valued and varied career in support work. I also gained experience as an activities and events co-ordinator in my local community.
Now ld like to host my own group. The A.L.I project, in honour of my friend Alison who sadly comitted suicide. I too have felt deep hopelessness and loneliness at times throughout my life, as a result of my own experiences
l am choosing to create a safe space for encouraging friendships that are based on peer support and lived experience.
The groups aim is to reduce the isolation and loneliness and stigma around those of us who struggle with our mental health and provide an opportunity to connect meaningfully with one another, build a community and share our stories.
The outcomes l hope are that we can arrange to go to other meetups together. Personally l find it quite daunting going to events alone due to living with bi-polar and struggle to get to places as l dont drive,
(plus lm dyslexic and directionally challenged!) Should we managed to create a resource sharing group and community with the core values of supporting one another, l would hope to remove those barriers for myself and for others like me.
Let us reduce loneliness by working together.
Initially meet ups will be in either Leicester city centre during the days or in Hinckley where l live in community spaces such as cafes.
Im happy to find suitable venues and lm open to suggestions. I have plenty of free time as l live on disability benefits, so lm very time rich and would like to meet up a few times a week with like minded souls to share this journey with and its challenges, then work on a programme of activities and events together as a collective.
The ambition is to create a compassionate and inclusive environment where no-one is left behind feeling disconnected, aiming to create new memories and sharing lives in the process, helping and supporting one another towards brighter futures wherever possible with what l refer to as A.L.I
( Authentic. Lived. Insight )
I hope to hear from lifes "Thrivers and Survivors" soon. Everyone is welcome when you arrive with an open heart and mind.
