Who can help me financially to set up a business in relation to Mental Health?

Hi all,

I have been working as a volunteer now for just under 3 years as a Direct Experience Mental Health Trainer which basically means I tell people about my Manic Depression and Alcoholism as well other mental illnesses. I work with NHS care trusts, Private Health organisations and others including the Police and charity organisations

I am looking to start my own business this year and would like to know what avenues I can go down to get financial help for equipment such as a laptop, projector, sound equipment etc...

I have been to my local business link who are no longer able to give grants but have offered interest free loans but I am not keen on the idea of having a loan.

I am currently in receipt of IB and middle rate DLA

Is there anyone I can goto for a grant?

I live in Lancashire.

If you need any further info, just say what you need and I'll post it!

Thanks

It all depends on what is available in your area really. I think the best thing for you to do is to go to your local volunteer bureau or Council for Voluntary Service. I understand that you are looking for money and not voluntary work but they will be able to help you by either linking you up with local charities or other organisations who can support you. Most CVS also have access to funding software or books and should be able to help you with contact details for any organisations who may be able to offer you funding.

You may also want to contact some of the national mental health charities such as Rethink, Mind, the Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health or the Mental Health Foundation.

I would also say that it is very important that you get a lot of moral and emotional as well as financial support. This kind of work can be very lonely and mentally demanding if you don't have the right kind of back up.

Good luck.

i am sorry i don t know to much about this but one possibility is the princess trust i think that they offer a grant to business ventures but i don t know what age u r and what age they help worth a look though good luck mate and carry on the good work u do a brilliant service