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ABOUT AIM

AIM began its existence as the Epping Forest CVS Mental Health Project in  April 1998.  The project was introduced as a result of the Local Mental Health Forum.  
A community initiative set up by the Council for Voluntary Service.  The Forum recognised there were many gaps in mental health service provision, in particular social outlets for those experiencing mental health difficulties.  There were very few facilities in Epping Forest where people could socialise, exchange coping mechanisms and gain confidence in a safe and supported environment.

The Mental Health Project became a registered charity in September 2000.
In conjunction with its independent status the project adopted a new name
Action In Mental Health (AIM).

AIM now has its own constitution and Board of Trustees.

THE DROP-IN CLUB (4 SESSIONS WEEKLY)

The Drop-in club provides an opportunity for socialising and the enjoyment of community activities for people with mental health problems. The club was established by service users under the AIM umbrella and opened its doors to members in May 1998.  It was held on Friday evenings and Monday afternoons at St Johns Church Hall in Epping. It has proved very popular and members have enjoyed activities ranging from cookery to quizzes and pool tournaments. In 2002, additional funding allowed the Drop-in to expand to 4 sessions weekly - at St John’s the Baptist Church Hall in Loughton on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons. The Sunday club provides a much needed weekend facility and is very well attended.  The drop in continues to provide a lifeline for those in need and is very much user led.

Click Here for past attendance statistics.

THE BEFRIENDING SCHEME

This Scheme provides one to one support for people who feel cut off from the local community or who are leaving hospitalisation.  All volunteer befrienders undergo a short training course. Volunteers make a contribution by offering company and practical support ranging from a sociable visit at home and encouragement in the activities of daily living, to taking part in leisure or learning pursuits.  Every match between volunteer and client is assessed and people are placed together depending upon their interests, background and general compatibility.  This scheme has had to be put on hold due to lack of volunteers.

TeenAIM

TeenAIM promotes age applicable mental health awareness and challenges the stigma of mental health, encouraging young people to develop their own Forum to address mental health needs with training & support.  Age range 13-19 years through schools, youth clubs etc. TeenAIM provides weekly drop-ins at various locations as well as an on-site counsellor at The Box, Epping every Tuesday.

STEPPING STONES

A user led self help discussion group which has recently come under the umbrella of AIM - meets weekly in Loughton or Epping.