The Wish Centre awarded grant for new mental health roles as clients with vulnerabilities rise by 200%

Named the Resilient and Strong project, the Wish Centre has been awarded a grant by the National Lottery to fund a Mental Health IDVA, A Wellbeing Practitioner and a Counselling Coordinator to provide targeted support for service users in Blackburn with Darwen with additional needs.

The Wish Centre has seen a staggering increase of clients that have mental health needs, the number rising by over 200% since 2018.

"On average, 32% of people referred into our service also have issues with mental health, that’s almost 1 in every 3 people. The National Lottery Fund grant will enable us to provide tailored support for these individuals, helping them to not only live a life free from domestic abuse but also improve their overall mental wellbeing when it is most needed.” Sophie Hoyle, The Wish Centre.

Domestic Abuse can take many forms, it doesn’t always include violence. In fact, the most common form is emotional abuse which can have long lasting impacts on a survivor’s emotional wellbeing for many years, even if the abuse ends. 

Victims with mental health needs are also more likely to suffer financial difficulties and have problems with drug and alcohol use (SafeLives). The Resilient & Strong project grant from the National Lottery is a key investment into The Wish Centre, allowing the non-profit to expand their services for the needs of the community they serve.

David Dunwell from Lancashire Mind adds “Any funding that is brought into the county to support the Lancashire community with their mental health is amazing news and this project in particular provides a much needed and innovative way to support victims of domestic abuse. We are looking forward to working alongside and supporting the Wish Centre, who do amazing work supporting women.”