HELP is on hand at Utass for anyone in Teesdale who finds their wellbeing has been affected by the pandemic.
The farming charity, based in Middleton-in-Teesdale, has welcomed a second Covid resilience officer to help the growing number of residents who are struggling with mental health, bereavement and coping issues.
Yvonne Arkley-Bond, who has 17 years’ experience as a social worker, will be working with fellow social worker June Wainwright.
Mrs Wainwright initially joined Utass as a volunteer in the spring of 2020, offering counselling sessions.
She said: “The NHS recognised a year ago that there would be fallout from the pandemic and we were put in place all around County Durham.
“We are both from mental health backgrounds and we offer bereavement support and support to carers of people who are isolating because they are supporting a relative with dementia.”
She added: “We are not here instead of the statutory services but are here as well as them because the figures have almost doubled. We help with cognitive therapy, anxiety and some substance abuse.
“Covid and the pandemic is part of it, but not the whole picture. People are worried with the cost of living increases and that is a strain on mental health.
“We have offices at Utass but are looking to branch out to have somewhere in Barnard Castle as well.
“The important thing is it is free for 12 sessions and we aim to help pick people up fast.”
The service is free for everyone over 18 who lives in Teesdale. The counsellors are also offering classes in mindfulness and relaxation.
Ms Arkley-Bond added: “We have got a new dementia cafe hopefully starting at the end of September and we are also working with the music and memory group.”
To get in touch, email June Wainwright at june@utass.org or phone 0749 3744336; or contact Yvonne Arkley-Bond on 07407 514521 or yvonne@utass.org.
