“I have developed more self-awareness which is the first step on the road to recovery. I find it a bit easier to talk to others for the first time and am a little braver about starting conversations.” Hub client.

We are delighted to announce we have been awarded funding from the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund to support our vital work at the Hub!

The National Lottery Community Fund is the largest community funder in the UK who award money raised by National Lottery players for good causes. It's thanks to them that we have been awarded £353,050 over 3 years.

What will the funding support?

Mental Health in our community.

We are seeing a huge increase in referrals to the Hub, with a 40% increase since September alone, and this award from the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund will mean we can reach those who desperately need our support.

• In West Kent alone, 24% of adults over 18 years are estimated to have symptoms of mental health disorder.
• West Kent has the highest suicide rate for women in Kent.
• Tunbridge Wells is the third ranking district across Kent and Medway for prevalence of serious mental health disorder.

For many of our clients, the Hub is a life-line. Last year alone, the Hub supported 193 people and of these people:

• 91% felt more supported than they did before accessing our services
• 86% felt better in themselves
• 83% felt more connected to others.

The Hub remains a place where people can gain in confidence, learn from one another, build networks and develop their skills to give them improved access to volunteering, learning and local jobs. 

Thank you to National Lottery players - this awarded wouldn't have been possible without you!