A new social enterprise that aims to reduce the stigma around mental health and generate funds for local mental health providers has opened in Enniskillen.
BKN has been created by Ernevale Beacon Day Support and is funded by the Northern Ireland Executive’s Delivery Social Change fund.
The new social enterprise is based in Nugent’s Entry social enterprise hub and is an extension of Ernevale’s ongoing mission to stimulate young adults with mental health problems.
It will offer upcycling workshops to its 70 members every Tuesday and Wednesday and is appealing for old furniture to be donated to the project. The funds raised by selling the upcycled furniture will go back into local mental health services.
“As part of Niamh (Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health) all BKN’s activities are aimed at supporting those with mental ill-health through activities, increasing social value of the local area and raising much needed funding to support ongoing work,” explains Yvonne Fallis, BKN project worker.
“This social enterprise upcycles old furniture, giving it a new lease of life. It also showcases other creative and traditional crafts, offers employment and provides volunteering opportunities. The BKN project aims to engage, empower, upskill and add value to individuals living with mental ill health.” The project aims to improve the quality of life and confidence of locals with mental health issues and to reduce isolation of Beacon service users.
“We will break down the barriers and stigma attached to mental health, raise funds to reinvest in support services in the local community and provide an integral service to the community’s most vulnerable people in what is hoped will be the first of many such enterprises,” Yvonne explains.
A ‘Recovery Café’ will be hosted every month to provide a neutral, safe space that will enable individuals to seek help and support each other. In addition to the peer support, social inclusion and informal chats, there will be the opportunity to listen to key note speakers.
“Fermanagh is a rural and isolated district. BKN has a central, neutral location that will, with work, be accessed by all,” Yvonne concludes.
Anyone who wants to donate old furniture to the project can call Yvonne on 028 66322995.
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