Local mental health and wellbeing service boosted by new £20k funding
A local mental health and wellbeing service has been boosted with £20k in new funding to support the people who benefit from it.
Pepper's - A Safe Place has a centre in Nottingham Street in Melton Mowbray and another in Oakham running activities which provide valuable help in both communities.
The new financial support comes from the Severn Trent Community Fund Core Fund and will be used to pay for the centres’ essential work, supporting local's mental health and wellbeing
It will help with running costs throughout 2026, ensuring the organisation can continue delivering key services – unlike project-based grants, core funding provides stability for charities, allowing them to focus on what matters most.
Sue Heyes, community fund officer at Severn Trent, said: “Community spaces like Pepper’s – A Safe Place play an important role in helping people feel less isolated and more connected.
"We’re delighted to support their ongoing work through our community fund, helping them continue to provide a safe, welcoming place where people can come together, build friendships and support their mental wellbeing.”
The centres have been serving the community since 2018, offering safe, welcoming hubs where locals can feel heard and connected with others, whilst looking after their mental health.
They are part of a charity which runs a wide range of free activities, including, chair fitness, crafts, walks, men's groups, meditation, tai chi and music.
Alongside these there are social drop-in sessions, a chance for locals to talk with volunteers or peers, relax with a cup of tea and escape daily stresses.
The aim is to combat isolation, develop long term mental health resilience, grow support networks and build confidence. Attendees can benefit from the consistency, warmth and stability offered.
Pippa Gorman, operations manager with Pepper’s, commented: "We are delighted to have support from Severn Trent Community Fund.
"This grant offers us vital income to keep our doors open and to continue supporting the ever-growing need for our safe places."
To find out more information about the services on offer at the Pepper's - A Safe Place centres, email [email protected] or you can call 07714 503556.