The Night Shelter will in August be rolling out a programme to help residents battle depression and substance abuse and focus on self-care and mental health.
According to Probation and Social Services Officer Natasha Mansfield, depression is prevalent among residents of the shelter, and as such, the programme will start off with a concentrated focus on the subject, after which other topics will follow. The discussions will be facilitated by mental health professionals.
Mansfield explained that while stationed at the Night Shelter she had met with residents, with whom she had discussions to determine their social needs.
“When I interacted with the residents I began to understand their challenges. I found that most of the residents are depressed and have mental illness. I did some counselling with them and engaged them in physical exercise and group discussions. I am aiming to commence the formal programme in August where we’ll have formal discussions and professionals come in and talk with the residents,” a Ministry of Social Protection release stated.
It was noted that the Night Shelter is home to 59 residents, who, whilst there, are provided meals and amenities and prepared for reintegration into society.
Other developments at the institution include the addition of Patient Care Assistants and the expected addition of a Registered Nurse, recent upgrades to some facilities, including the renovation of the kitchen and eating areas for staff and male and female residents. Also, for the first time, a security camera, fire extinguisher and wet floor signs were secured and the institution is regularly fumigated. The release said that imminently, an Occupational Health and Safety (OS&H) standard for the Shelter will be developed to promote safety on the job.
