Good morning everyone,

I hope you’re all well.

I know it’s been a while since I’ve written a blog, but I wanted to give you all a little update on what’s been happening.

Recently, my grandad has been placed on end-of-life care, and if I’m honest, I’m struggling with it a lot. I often feel guilty that he’s in a care home and that I’m not looking after him myself. The reality is that I reached a point where I just couldn’t cope with everything anymore. Deep down, I know he’s in the right place and receiving the care he needs, but that doesn’t make it any easier. I also find it difficult to visit him at the care home, and it’s something I’m still trying to come to terms with.

I would like to take a moment to thank my partner and my family for their understanding and support during this difficult time. It means more than I can put into words.

On the mental health front, I’ve recently been referred back to the Community Mental Health Team. What did make me laugh was the name of the service I’ve been placed under: Targeted Intervention. You’d think some of these services would have friendlier names!

Around two months ago, I was told I probably wouldn’t be seen until November, so it was quite a surprise when I’ve already had two appointments. At the moment, everything is being done over the phone. I’m someone who finds face-to-face appointments much easier, so I’m not entirely sure how well this approach will work for me. However, I’m willing to give it a chance and see what happens over the coming weeks.

News from Living With Mental Health CIC

There is also some exciting news regarding the CIC.

We are currently planning a launch party to officially open Living With Mental Health CIC, and we’re really looking forward to celebrating this important milestone.

We also have several exciting project ideas in development:

1. Working with the Excelsior Trust on the maintenance of an old Lowestoft fishing smack boat.
2. A longer-term two-year project with the Broads Authority.
3. Light exercise sessions to support wellbeing and mental health.
4. Hopefully developing projects in partnership with the Restoration Trust.
5. David and I are planning to write a book with support from a writer – so watch this space!

Despite some difficult personal challenges, things are moving in the right direction, and I’m incredibly grateful for that.

I couldn’t do any of this without the support of my partner and her family, my own family, my fellow Director, our supporters, sponsors, and everyone who follows and encourages the work of the CIC. Your support means the world to me.

This is just a short update, but I’m hoping to get back into writing weekly blogs again.

I hope you all have an amazing week.

Thank you for reading.

See you in the next one.

John Durrant
Director & Founder
Living With Mental Health CIC

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