During their most recent meeting, members of Honiton Carers were told about a charity providing support for adults with mental health issues. 

The most recent meeting took place at the Methodist Church on Wednesday, September 14, with Gary Wakeley from Open Arms, giving a talk. 

Open Arms was launched five years ago as a result of MIND closing down in Honiton and Exeter. 

The charity now meets in the Community Use Building and operates two days a week, providing a meeting place for people to socialise, cook and eat together as well as craft opportunities 

A spokesman for Honiton Carers said: “Gary brought along a display of the groups’ recent and past activities which were put together at the Thelma Hulbert Gallery.  In addition, they have created photobooks to illustrate the work of the participants. 

“Open Arms makes no charge for their services other than a small contribution for tea and coffee.   

“Open Arms is a CIO or Charitable Incorporated Organisation, and as such has a board of 5 trustees to help and offer guidance to the operation of the group. 

“Sue Edwards, also present, works hard to apply for grants to fund the work Open Arms undertakes.” 

Gary invited carers to look at his display whilst tea was being served.  Chairman Winnie Cameron thanked both Sue and Gary for the interesting insight into their work. 

Tea was served before we were joined by Neil Hurlock and Wendy Williams from TRIP Community Transport. 

Wendy, who is a Befrienders co-ordinator for TRIP, spoke about her role and Neil gave an update on the Time for You project – a carer sitting service which needs a viable funding stream before it can restart following the pandemic. 

Members were told how TRIP is trying to extend into other support areas provided that the finance for any project is in place. 

TRIP is also looking at working with the NHS on a patient discharge service, but the funding provision is already four months behind schedule.  TRIP is trying to get all its services under one roof with one number to cover all activities. 

The Honiton Carers spokesman added: “Neil quoted that TRIP is endeavouring to ‘turn an existence back into a life’ and combat loneliness and isolation. He asked for ideas people may have for future projects that TRIP could support.”