South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has praised the work of Support in Mind Scotland during a visit to their Dumfries site last week.

Support in Mind Scotland’s multi award-winning Life Skills Project in Dumfries provides opportunities for personal development and employability skills improvement, through a combination of group work and one-to-one support for adults who are affected by mental health issues.

The charity has 50 years’ experience in tackling mental health and has six locations in Dumfries and Galloway; two in Dumfries plus Annan, Castle Douglas, Newton Stewart and Stranraer providing a range of services. They also run outreach services.

Nationally Support in Mind Scotland run a mental health and money advice service, Bloom (a program to educate educators), the National Rural Mental Health Forum (www.ruralwellbeing.org) and they are also partners in running the Distress Brief Intervention Project.

Colin Smyth was delighted to visit the charity’s Dumfries project and meet with staff, volunteers and service users.

The local MSP said: “It was brilliant to visit Support in Mind Scotland in Dumfries last week and learn more about the fantastic work carried out locally by the charity.

“It was invaluable to be able to chat with John and Emma, as well as some of the volunteers and service users. I also appreciated being able to learn more about some of the challenges facing the sector and what politicians can do to help.

“Everywhere I go, local businesses tell me that they are facing a recruitment crisis. Projects such as this, which can often help people re-enter the employment market, are invaluable, not just for those who receive support but also local businesses.

“The Dumfries premises on Munches Street is an amazing place not just for the services it provides, but it has a gift shop selling some of the fantastic work carried out by service users, which then goes towards funding the projects.

“I would encourage everyone to take the time to pop in if they want some unique local gifts which in turn help support the charity to continue its good work.”

Emma Scott, Area Manager in Dumfries and Galloway for Support in Mind Scotland, said: “Support in Mind Scotland believe that no one has to face mental ill health alone. Our service in Munches St in Dumfries is a creative and social centre that offers people the opportunity to improve their skills and confidence while giving back to the community.

“It was a pleasure to have Colin Smyth MSP visit the service in Dumfries to see first-hand the array of activity that enables people to develop their skills, feel valued and to share in the opportunities, challenges and joys of everyday life.”