This service is available to the residents of:
Friends in Need
We’re friendly peer support groups dedicated to helping you manage your mental health. Join us for uplifting and fun, free activities that promote well-being and connection. Feel supported by others who understand how you’re feeling.
We offer two types of groups:
- General Peer Support
- Peers2Pals: For 17-25-year-olds
Come along and experience the difference that being part of a community that cares can make. Whether you’re looking for a welcoming space to talk, relax, or engage in a variety of activities, we’re here for you. Join us today and take the first step towards better mental health.
Who is this suitable for?
Friends in Need – General Group
- Open to all adults in East Berkshire (covering Windsor, Ascot, Maidenhead, Bracknell Forest and Slough) who are experiencing mental health problems. Our timetable offers a wide variety of activities and is shaped by our members.
- Self-referral is encouraged, as well as referrals from GPs, MHICS Community Connectors team, Social Prescribers, Talking Therapies and other local voluntary and statutory organisations.
Friends in Need – Peers2Pals
- Open to all people aged between 17 to 25 years old in East Berkshire who are experiencing mental health problems. Our timetable offers a wide variety of activities and is shaped by our members.
- Self-referral is encouraged, as well as referrals from GPs, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), the Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) as well as voluntary and community organisations.
What can I expect?
The foundation of the group is based on the Five Ways to Wellbeing; to give, be active, take notice, learn, and give back. We have a timetable of events and activities for members to attend that promote these values. New members are always welcomed into a safe and supportive environment.
Do I have to pay?
There is no charge for this service.
How can I access this service?
To join us or to find out more about our Friends in Need service in your area, please call Ansa Khan on 07496 874882 or email ansa.khan@bucksmind.org.uk.
We are looking forward to meeting you, welcoming you and hearing about any activities that you would like to see on our timetable.
If you are part of the NHS, a charity or community group or GP surgery and would like us to come along to meet you and tell you more about Friends in Need and our very simple referral process, please do get in touch. Our aim is to increase community resilience and to spread the word about how powerful peer support can be.
How to refer a patient or client
Introduction to our peer support service, Friends in Need
If I hadn’t found Friends in Need, I would still be at home and not washing my hair or showering for weeks. I was suicidal but now I am about to start a new job. Coming to FiN has given me back my self-confidence, got rid of my feelings of worthlessness and given my self-esteem a boost. Being open about my depression within the group has helped me to be open in my interview, so my new employer knows about my mental health problems, which is a relief.
Friends in Need Activities Timetable
Friends In Need Timetable March 2025
Friends In Need Timetable March 2025
Friends in Need Peers2Pals Activities Timetable
Peers2Pals Timetable March 2025
Peers2Pals Timetable March 2025
Information Leaflets
If you feel you require any support to access this service, for example hearing loop, translator or mobility aids, please call 01494 463364 or email info@bucksmind.org.uk and we will get back to you to discuss your individual needs.