Last Thursday the Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor was a welcome visitor to Henry Smith House, our hub in Watford supporting people living with mental health conditions and their carers to improve wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and enjoy life. Mr Taylor met staff, volunteers and services of the activity centre to tell him about their lives and the Guideposts services.

Members of the service who were at the centre told Mr Taylor about their diagnoses and their journey towards recovery. Many of them explained how Guideposts’ service had helped them to feel better and become more confident members of society.

Carole Buckingham showed and gave Mr Taylor a copy of the book she has written called “The Drama of Schizophrenia”, a real success as she has suffered from illness both physically and mentally.  She said “To sum up my experience of being with Guideposts, the word I would use is kindness.  The community workers, the members and the volunteers all contribute to an amazing human spirit.”

The mayor was also given a children’s book illustrated and written by Margaret Andrews who is a member of the Art & Start group. Peter was amazed when he was told that she was short-listed for the Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition this year – a great achievement especially for someone in their 80s!

Peter Taylor said “I really enjoyed visiting Guideposts and chatting to their volunteers, service users and staff. They are such an important charity in our town and there is no doubt that they are making a huge difference in the lives of many people. I heard first-hand how their work is improving people’s wellbeing and helping people to achieve their potential regardless of their circumstances. I am so grateful to everyone involved with Guideposts for the work that they do.”

We are pleased that the members of our community have had this opportunity to share with the Mayor of Watford what it is like to live with a mental health condition and thankful and appreciative of Peter’s time and support.

Find out more about Guideposts’ services at Henry Smith House here: www.guideposts.org.uk/henry-smith-house/