MENTAL Health support services across Hambleton and Richmondshire are offering help and backing through a new project Mind Matters.

A seven strong team based at The Link in Crosby Road, Northallerton, is leading the scheme with regular sessions in Stokesley, Great Broughton, Richmond Bedale and Catterick.

Richmond MP Rishi Sunak expressed his support during a visit to Mind mental health team in Northallerton. He said the work of the service which saw Darlington Mind merging with mental health support in Richmondshire and Hambleton was vital in maintaining the well being of vulnerable people.

He said loneliness is one of the major contributors to mental health issues with people of all ages affected from elderly people to isolated mums and teeangers, who find it hard to make friends. He added: "I very much enjoyed meeting the team and finding out about the range of services across Hambleton and Richmondshire. It was good to hear they have a long-term funding agreement through North Yorkshire County Council"

Gary Emmerson, chief executive of Darlington Mind said the visit was a good opportunity to talk about some of the challenges they face and the growing demand for mental health services. Mind Matters run daily sessions, Monday to Friday, at Northallerton and a weekly lunch club at Bedale and twice weekly at Northallerton. For more information about services in Hambleton and Richmondshire call 01609 780758.