Mental health charity Mind in Kingston has partnered up with Kingston University to offer weekly drama classes to help those suffering with mental health issues.
The weekly drop-in drama sessions aim to build resilience, confidence and social connection through creative and therapeutic techniques.
Counselling and wellbeing co-ordinator from Mind in Kingston Vicky Bourne said: “The sessions are available to anyone who feels that drama sessions could be beneficial to their mental health. This group is especially aimed at people who might not yet have the confidence to attend a more established or formal group.”
Mind and Kingston have previously partnered “pooling mutual expertise and resources always to great effect”.
KU drama department has a big influence on the drama sessions, with senior drama lecturer David Linton leading the collaboration.
“Third year students from our Drama and Theatre Arts BA (Hons) taking the applied theatre module have been lucky enough to have a placement at Mind in Kingston. The placement enables the students to develop their workshop practice and understand how the drama skills at Kingston can be utilised to cultivate a positive sense of self, community and trust for all involved,” said Linton
Nearly three-quarters of people feel so overwhelmed with stress it makes them feel unable to cope, says The Mental Health Foundation.
Mind would like to work with Kingston university to fundraise for the sessions and potentially extend their partnership.
“As the drama sessions are taking part at our regular Thursday drop in café in Surbiton, there is also the opportunity for participants to find out more about some of the other services Mind in Kingston offers to support wellbeing in Kingston, such as the opening times of the café, counselling, art group, and Mind United FC,” said Bourne.
The sessions are free and open to all. They take place every Thursday from 7pm until 9pm at the Alfriston Day Centre in Surbiton.
Grace Henley 
Josh Smith 
Ella Rebbitt