Mosaic Clubhouse, hosts of the Living Well Partnership based in Effra Road, Brixton
is one of just three organisations shortlisted in the Public Mental Health and Wellbeing category of the prestigious Royal Society for Public Health’s Health & Wellbeing Awards 2017. This award recognises efforts to prevent mental illness and promote mental health.
Chief Executive Maresa Ness, was moved by the news. “We’re over the moon that we’ve been shortlisted for an award for what we do,” she says.
The Clubhouse offers a non-judgmental, safe and welcoming environment for people to develop their skills and interests. More than 400 clubhouse members – who all live with mental illness – run the centre alongside 22 staff. Services include support in finding employment, education and housing – as well as a café and evening sanctuary.
Maresa explains: “Levels of psychosis in the borough of Lambeth are six times the national average. Mosaic provides somewhere where people with mental health issues are needed and valued, where being part of a community provides a sense of belonging and meaning. Our work helps our members to foster more positive relationships and build trust, believe in their own strengths and potential, and develop new and important skills.”
Her words are borne out by Clubhouse members… “I feel a lot better coming here, making new friends and being able to talk to people – it’s just a great place to be,” says Steve. When I’m at home, I’m like a recluse in my room all the time. My family don’t understand why I come to Mosaic, but I feel safe and comfortable talking to people, and it’s a life for me. I can’t do without it.”
Clare adds: “I’ve been attending Mosaic for over 10 years. Before coming to Mosaic I was always in and out of hospitals. My first hospital admission was when I was a teenager and I was there for about a year. Things I’ve done at Mosaic have really helped me. It’s kept me out of hospitals and given me a purpose in life.”
Mosaic will find out if it has won at the RSPH Awards 2017 ceremony, which will be held at East Wintergarden in London on Thursday 19 October.
Click here for more about the award
Clubhouse members names have been changed.