Put simply, the Waddington Street Centre aims to deliver effective mental health support through life skills and opportunities for people experiencing mental health difficulties.
We want to help people live fulfilling lives in the community by offering opportunities for personal development, social interaction, and by supporting recovery. We are also committed to countering stigma and discrimination.
Our services are based on creating a hopeful approach, raising motivation and focusing on strengths and possibilities. The educational courses and the other activities we provide are valuable in fostering learning and providing practical support – and, no less important, they also help to build relationships and friendships that can promote mutual support and reduce social isolation. The Centre is a lifeline to many, helping people to stay out of hospital and lead a full life.
The Centre’s services are available to adults with a range of mental health difficulties who have been referred by a relevant mental healthcare professional, GP or a partner organisation. The Centre currently provides places for up to 150 people living predominately in the north of the County Durham funded in the main through the Durham Mental Wellbeing Alliance.
Over the years, the Centre has developed strong partnerships with many other organisations, notably New College Durham, which provides a wide range of learning opportunities at the Centre. Approximately 15 courses per week are delivered at the Centre by New College. The Durham University Maiden Castle Complex provides sports facilities through their Volunteer and Community Outreach programme.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Centre Manager Ali Lee
