The Tamworth Minds Matter group was initially formed by local woman Helen Mary Jones on Facebook.

Her hope was to provide support to people in the community that had a lived experience with mental health directly or indirectly.

The group has been working toward a community event for more than a year, joining forces with headspace Tamworth, to help the community gain an understanding of what services are available in and around Tamworth.

“We know that only about a third of people experiencing a mental illness seek help,” headspace’s youth and community engagement officer Avril Oakley-Hollow says.

“headspace Tamworth and the Tamworth Mind Matters group hope that by hosting this event we can encourage more people to seek help and get healthy.”

The evening, All Minds Matter, will be held at the Tamworth Town Hall on October 19 from 5.30pm onwards.

Many local service providers will be there to provide information and referral pathways to individuals, families and carers.

Established in 2001, Centacare NENW provides mental health support and care for individuals, families, and the community, particularly in remote and rural regions.

With a workforce of more than 150, including invaluable volunteers, Centacare provides help and creates hope for thousands of people each year across the New England North West.

Services span a range of programs, including psychology services, care coordination, education and case management. 

Centacare NENW can help you and your family improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Many of their programs are funded by the state and federal governments and are provided free or at a low cost.

Centacare NENW seeks a holistic approach to helping individuals, helping provide support in a practical manner that can be used even after your program ceases.

“It’s important to remember that you’re not alone,” Centacare NENW chief executive Fergus Fitzsimons said.

“Centacare New England North West is ready to listen.”

For more information, phone 1800 372 826.

THERE are two new faces at the northern region of the Rural Financial Counselling Service NSW.

Angela Hayes is based in the Scone office and has more than 20 years’ experience in accounting, finance and insurance.

Greg Giles is based in Narrabri and is ready to assist eligible farmers, fishers, forest growers, harvesters and small related rural businesses who are suffering financial hardship.

The service also has a new office at Tocal Agricultural College.

Begun in 2006, the counselling service is an independent, professional and free service committed to supporting rural Australia.

Its counsellors will support and work with clients to develop options and make decisions.

They can help improve financial self-sufficiency. For more information, phone 6662 5055.