Darlington Building Society in Redcar has helped raise awareness and funds for the local subdivision of national mental health charity, Mind.
The High Street branch hosted a ‘pop-up shop’ for Redcar & Cleveland Mind’s Something in Mind café and shop, from which volunteers sold freshly baked goods, raffle tickets and various other fundraising merchandise, whilst also raising awareness of its services.
Something in Mind, based on West Dyke Road, is a social enterprise that not only raises money for the charity through its café and shop, but also offers one to one support and wellbeing activities as well as opportunities for service users to gain work experience placements.
To celebrate its 160th anniversary working in the region, Darlington Building Society is offering space in its 10 branches for local businesses and organisations, such as Something in Mind, to hold ‘pop-up shops’ with the intention of furthering awareness of the local businesses or organisations.
Katie Finkill, Manager at Something in Mind, said: “Any opportunity to get out and spread the word about our services is always welcome, so we were pleased to learn that Darlington Building Society was offering space in its branches for local organisations.
“Something in Mind offers a unique chance for those suffering mental health issues to be in a relaxed atmosphere, find company and gain skills. All our profits are reinvested into our wellbeing services, such as support services, courses and activities that are helpful in building confidence, self-esteem and better mental health.
“We need support from local people and businesses like the Society, so we can continue to develop our services, provide assistance to those in need and contribute to our fantastic communities in Redcar and Cleveland.”
Nicky Donaghue, Branch Manager at Darlington Building Society, said: “It’s great to have Something in Mind in our branch and we’re pleased to be able to support a local charity in this way.
“Something in Mind is the first organisation to take advantage of the space in our branch and we hope their success will encourage others to take the opportunity to reach new customers and spread their message.”