UPDATE JUNE 2023
Following the departure of its branch chair, and a lack of volunteers to take on new roles, sadly the trustees of Being Alongside have decided to cease the operations of the Merton and Sutton branch for now. The trustees will ringfence funds held for the branch for a period of three years, in case a similar project is started in the area.
APCMH Merton and Sutton was established as APCMH Merton in 1991, and has been running its befriending scheme for nearly 25 years. The branch provides a voluntary one-to-one service for adults with mental health problems within the London Boroughs of Merton and Sutton as well as adjoining districts.
Volunteer befrienders regularly meet with a person who is experiencing mental health problems to have a chat, go for a walk, share activities of common interest – anything which makes life more enjoyable. We believe that befriending is a means of reducing social isolation that so often accompanies the experience of mental health illness. By building up and maintaining a close relationship, social skills and confidence can be rediscovered and nurtured. It is rewarding to make a difference in the life of a person with mental health problems, and to experience their genuine appreciation of your help. However the greatest reward is gaining a close friend!