BATLEY SELF HELP DEPRESSION GROUP


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a copy of this fact sheet can be downloaded here

DEVELOPMENT FACT SHEET

 

Batley Self Help Depression Group have been operating since 1997, our work is based upon the person centred model of counselling. This style is based around the person and their needs and is about giving encouragement for the person to deal with their problems.

 

We have developed our group significantly over the last decade and would like to share our experiences with you.  The Tudor Trust has very kindly provided funding to enable us to do this.

 

In our experience we have found that group talking therapy and one to one counselling are the most beneficial and this is the main focus of our work.  

What is Group Talking Therapy?

In group therapy approximately 8-12 individuals meet face-to-face with two trained group facilitators. During the group meeting time, members decide what they want to talk about.

 

Members are encouraged to give feedback to others. Feedback includes expressing your own feelings about what someone says or does. Interaction between group members is highly encouraged and provides each member with an opportunity for learning more about the way they interact with others. It is a safe environment in which members work to establish a level of trust that allows them to talk personally and honestly.

 

Group members make a commitment to the group and are instructed that the content of the group sessions are confidential.  It is not appropriate for a group member to disclose events of the group to an outside person.

 

Groups can be open to deal with any subjects that arise from the members or can be more specific for example bereavement or sexual abuse.

 

Other types of group sessions

Talking therapy can also be used as the basis for other types of sessions for example art and writing groups or workshops dealing with specific areas eg: anxiety, confidence, self esteem.

 

Important factors to consider

In order for the talking therapy sessions to be effective understanding and maintaining the confidentiality of members is vital.

The selection of suitable group facilitators is another key point to ensure that quality is maintained.

What is one to one counselling?

Counselling takes place in a private and confidential setting to explore any issues the client is having.  It must be at the clients request as it demands a high level of commitment.  Counselling offers space and time for the client to explore various aspects of their life and how they feel about them.

 

How to set up a counselling service

If you are interested in offering a one to one counselling service contact the BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy) in the first instance for more advice and information. www.bacp.co.uk   

 

Students on the Counselling Diploma course need to complete a number of practice hours in order to qualify and are always looking for placements, contact your local colleges.

Paid Staff and Volunteers

There are many legal obligations associated with employing staff ensure that you adhere to this before you start out, www.acas.org.uk is a good source of information.

 

The most important thing when recruiting help, paid or voluntary, is that you set out the requirements for the role and ensure anyone you take on meets these otherwise it may well cause problems later.  Contact your local volunteer office and advertise paid work in the job centre, Voluntary Action and community groups.     

 

Funding

There are lots of places to look for funding whether you need a little or a lot.  Start locally by having a look at what grants are available from your local council, contact your local Voluntary Action group they usually provide much needed information in this area.

 

Don’t underestimate the value of in house fundraising for example: sponsored events, coffee mornings, raffles, seasonal fayres, put collection tins in local shops.   Contact local businesses to ask if they would be willing to donate raffle prizes. You may need a licence for certain fundraising activities so check with your local council.  

 

Some funders will only give to registered charities, or will require you to have certain policies in place.  If you are interested in becoming a charity you can find out more at

www.charity-commission.gov.uk

We do have a limited number of sessions available to discuss further how we have developed our group.  If you are interested in accessing one of these please contact us at:

 

 

Batley Community Resource Centre                                                                                

90 Commercial Street                                                                                                                     ( 01924 446413

Batley, West Yorkshire                                                                                                        www.batleyselfhelp.org.uk

WF17 5DS                                                                                                                                 Email:  enquiries@batleyselfhelp.org.uk

Charity Registration No: 1101327                                                                                                          Private Company Limited By Guarantee                                                                                                                                                    Registered in England and Wales , No. 4839793