Awarded in autumn 2024, this grant supports the provision of free and low-cost counselling services for residents of Chippenham affected by cancer or other life-threatening conditions.
Led by We Hear You (WHY), the project offers high-quality, compassionate counselling services that give individuals the time, space, and support to process their feelings and experiences. The organisation has been providing these vital services in the region for many years, with an established presence in Chippenham at their Pew Hill location. The funding will enable WHY to deliver approximately 520 counselling sessions over the year, supporting an estimated 35 Chippenham parish residents.
While other counselling providers exist in Chippenham through NHS, charitable, and private channels, many have limitations or barriers for those affected by life-threatening illness. WHY’s service fills this gap, with their counselling deeply embedded within the regional health and social care provision through close working relationships with local GPs, hospitals, community nursing teams, schools, colleges, carers groups, and cancer support organisations.
The project aims to improve access to mental health services, enhance overall mental wellbeing, and build self-confidence and self-esteem among residents who are navigating some of the most challenging circumstances in their lives, contributing to reduced health inequalities in the community.
