The scheme run by Chad's Charity for 2008 provides day care at various centres in the area to give carers a rest and get those with mental health difficulties out of their comfort zones and interacting with others.

It supplies transport to pick the individual up from their front door in the morning and then deliver them to one of the charity's six centres where they can enjoy a range of activities and a hot meal before being dropped back off at home later in the day.

Central Notts MIND's general manager, Girish Ravat, says the service is popular because carers can have regular breaks knowing that their dependant relative is in safe hands.

"A high ratio of staff and volunteers to members guarantees carefully planned programmes of activities for the clients who have the opportunity to socialise with others with similar needs to themselves at the centres," he said.

"An escort and driver will pick them up from home to ensure that the client is up and dressed and had switched off all appliances and locked up their properties before leaving if necessary.

"It's all about getting people with mental health difficulties out of the house and mixing with other at the centres where there are plenty of activities and games for them to do.

"Most importantly, the service gives carers the opportunity to have some time to themselves and also get out of the house for a few hours.

"Being a carer for someone with mental health difficulties can be a full time job and it's important people step-back and have some me-time which is why the scheme can be so helpful."

Anybody wanting more information about the family support scheme or who would like to organise a charity event or make a donation to Central Notts MIND should contact Girish Ravat on Mansfield 658044.
Central Notts MIND is looking for volunteers to help support people with mental health difficulties. Anybody interested in becoming a volunteer should contact Girish Ravat on Mansfield 658044.