The History of Andover Mind
Andover Mind promoting World Mental Health Day outside the Guildhall, Andover.
This day is held annually on 10th October
In 1984, a group of mental health professionals identified a serious lack of support in the Andover area for adults with severe mental illness. A small support group was started under the name of Andover Mental Health Club and the response was so encouraging that it was decided to recruit more volunteers and provide a more formal structure to organise group activities.
The group obtained charitable status and subsequently became affiliated to Mind, being granted the title of Andover Mind. The extent and range of activities was developed and funding was obtained for a full time worker. Thirty volunteers were recruited, providing support for some 80 clients. The group was provided with an office and coffee area in a social services day centre but there was insufficient room for the activities of the group.
In 1994, funding was obtained to rent and convert suitable accommodation and recruit an appropriate level and range of staff. At this time, the organisation obtained Limited Company status and became accepted as an essential part of mental health care in the area.
