MSP visit highlights local mental health support

SNP MSP for Angus South Constituency, Graeme Dey, paid a visit to Reach Across to highlight the support on offer locally for those experiencing mental ill health.

Mental Health Awareness Week is a national week in the UK to raise awareness of mental health difficulties and promote positive mental health.

Reach Across was born in 2015 after the tragic loss of a loved one to suicide.

Now a registered charity based in Arbroath, they voluntarily provide help and support for people who are experiencing mental health issues.

Due to overwhelming support from the local community, they now have their own premises named ‘The Haven’, which in turn provides a safe and confidential environment for people to express their thoughts and feelings.

Mr Dey visited Reach Across at their Arbroath premises, where he spoke with Sandra Ramsay and staff about the impact loneliness, particularly in relation to the pandemic, can have on our mental health.

Reach Across said: “Reach Across were delighted to have a visit from Graeme Dey, MSP for Angus South Constituency. He was shown around the Reach Across premises and the new garden area by Sandra Ramsay, Founder, Manager and Volunteer at Reach Across. He was also introduced to a supported person and a trainee Counsellor. Mr Dey was updated on the individualised support Reach Across provides locally to adults who are experiencing mental wellbeing difficulties, particularly young men, the feelings of stigma they feel and how best to combat this.”

Commenting, Mr Dey said: “I was very pleased to meet with Sandra and some of the team at Reach Across during Mental Health Awareness Week.

It was very encouraging to hear about all the fantastic work they are doing in providing support locally for those suffering with mental ill health, and to discuss ways in which we can raise awareness of the impact stigma has upon people who have mental health issues or disabilities."

He added: “I was particularly impressed to hear of the new approaches and collaborations they are using to help them engage with young men who may be struggling. I would encourage anyone in need of support to get in touch with Reach Across.”