The idea
We are creating a Community & Wellbeing Centre in Guildford and Phase I of the building works is almost complete. This Centre will be home to a team of professional counsellors and therapists providing mental health support services to the people of Surrey from six brand new, bespoke consulting rooms. This work has been funded using our charity reserves. Phase II of the project will provide access to a spacious and bright meeting room for use by local charities and community groups and will allow us to breakthrough and connect to the main part of our beautiful Grade II listed building where we offer a diverse range of lifelong learning activities, promote well-being and facilitate social connections. In this part of the building, we also have a historic library and local archive as well as one of the only vegetarian cafes in the town. As part of the Phase II works, we will also be installing an accessible toilet facility to ensure that everyone can easily utilise the services provided.
What we'll deliver
- A Community & Wellbeing Centre in a central location close with public transport routes close by
- Spaces for counsellors and other therapists to provide vital mental health support services
- A conversion sympathetic to our Grade II listed building, using a contractor experienced with listed buildings
- A versatile, bright, and private meeting room for group therapies
- The room will also house community activities including provision of art classes for those living with dementia
- Accessible toilet facilities
- A variety of rewarding opportunities for volunteers
- The development of part of a grade II listed property that has been standing empty for over two years
- Preservation of a landmark historic building in Guildford town centre
Why it's a great idea
It is essential that individuals with mental health conditions receive the support they need, yet resources are limited, and demand is high. This new facility aims to address this issue by offering a dedicated space for professionals to deliver mental health services to individuals of all ages, including both adults and young people and families will have access to mediation services.
This will contribute to the overall well-being and mental health awareness in the community, along with improving the health and welfare of older people through the courses and activities offered at The Guildford Institute where we promote lifelong learning and active ageing.
We will be able to provide spaces for organisations and charities to meet including Voluntary Action South West Surrey, The Halow Project and South West Domestic Abuse Service.
Steps to get it done
- Design and Listed Building consent
- Tender evaluation
- Phase I - Contract Works 8 - 10 weeks
- Official Opening
- Counselling / Therapists operational and providing essential mental health support in community
- Phase II – obtain funding to complete the next part of the conversion works.
Words from one of the counselling team:
“As a counsellor I feel it is very important to offer counselling sessions in an accessible, easy to reach, town centre location near to trains, buses and parking. Guildford Institute also offers other courses important for mental health such as art and tai chi that our clients can access. Here you meet a diverse range of people and committed volunteers. The new space will provide spacious, bright purpose-built therapy rooms and an area for group counselling sessions”.
