Double initiative brings hope for those in crisis

VULNERABLE people living in Lochaber could enjoy a new sense of hope thanks to the launch of two initiatives.

Born out of the needs of local residents, Lochaber Hope provides help for people to cope with a wide range of sensitive and personal issues.

The charity has been offering support since 2005 but it is now set to expand to include a peer mentoring scheme for young people and a new ‘ women’s space’ initiative.

As part of the mentoring programme, Lochaber Hope will recruit and train young people aged between 16 and 24 years old.

They are looking for individuals who can ‘spot and refer’ peers in the community who are vulnerable or in crisis, and assist them to seek help or to recognise risk and dangers.

A spokesperson said: ‘ We will provide training and administrative support for the scheme, as well as a drop-in centre where youth mentors can build strong relationships with existing mentors and be supported in their learning in a safe and trusting environment.’

‘Women’s space’ has been launched with the support of the Robertson’s Trust and it is a project that will allow women to get together, collaborate and champion their own ideas.

There will be a weekly dropin beginning on Wednesday January 11 then taking place every Wednesday between noon and 2pm at the Lochaber Hope’s new premises on Belford Road.

Lochaber Hope says the drop-ins will be an inspiring, empowering and heart-warming environment offering an opportunity for like-minded women to get together and be creative about the things that really matter to them.

The aim is to give the women of the local community a voice and to be heard. As it will be a user-led project, the women who become involved will decide how they would like to see the initiative develop in the future.

The spokesperson added: ‘This is just the start for the women’s space – the rest is up to you. Do you have a great idea or can think of something you would really like to do or learn, but have never had the opportunity?

‘ While activities are, at the moment, taking place in Fort William, we would love to involve as many women as possible and would gladly organise spaces around Lochaber. Just let us know.’

For more information or to book a place contact Teresa on 01397 704836 or email teresa. debillot@lochaberhope.org.uk or Dani.Drummon@lochaberhope.org.uk

Pictures: Iain Ferguson, The Write Image Creative writing courses are scheduled to begin on January 11 as part of the women’s space programme. Taking part are, left to right, Catherine Morrison, Andrea Macdonald, Alyson Smith and Dani Drummond. Below: Alexander Ogilvie and Iona Crew signal...