Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) has awarded £5,000 to support Watch CIO’s weekly peer-support sessions in Chard. The funding helps adults experiencing loneliness and social isolation build confidence, connect with others, and feel less alone. 
Led by lived-experience facilitators and volunteers, Watch CIO’s sessions give participants the chance to form friendships, gain resilience, and access ongoing support within their community.
“Watch CIO provides a lifeline for people who might otherwise go without support,” said Clare Stephen, Programmes Manager at SCF. “Adults in Somerset face the longest waits for mental health treatment in the South West, making safe spaces to talk, share experiences, and connect locally more important than ever.”
The grant comes ahead of Time to Talk Day on February 5, which highlights the importance of conversation and community in protecting mental wellbeing.
Somerset Community Foundation is a grant-making charity that helps build strong communities by funding local charities and facilitating local giving.
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