“Helping People suffering from Mental Illness which, can affect anyone…”
Who we are:
We were formed in 1978 as the Friends of Oakwood Psychiatric Hospital which, at the time, had over 2000 patients.
When the hospital closed in 1995 we broadened our remit to support people suffering both from mental illness in hospital care and also those in the community.
We now cover all local authority areas in West Kent, including Medway.
What we do:
We co-operate with the Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust to meet the needs of people with mental illness.
We are affiliated to ATTEND (National League of Friends) and are registered with the Charity Commission.
We provide amenities and facilities at premises operated by the Trust throughout West Kent including Maidstone, Medway, Dartford, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks.
We operate a snack machine and drinks machine in the Mental Health Hospital, Priority House, Maidstone
Support
We give practical support to people in the community including those recently discharged from hospital. Last year we donated over £9,000, fulfilling more than 100 separate requests; many of which went to people living in the community.
Gifts we have donated:
* Beds and mattresses to the wards
* Courtesy packs for patients entering care
* Grocery packs and emergency help for patients on discharge
How can I Help?
* Become a member of the Friends
* Make a donation
* Leave a bequest in your will
* Join our Committee, which meets monthly at Priority House, or at the home of one of our members
If you are interested in getting involved and supporting The Friends in any of the above ways, please complete the form below and send to:
The Hon. Secretary
Friends of Mental Health
(West Kent and Medway)
Priority House
Hermitage Lane
Maidstone ME16 9PH