Mental health support in the Channel Islands has received a significant boost with over £637,000 in grants awarded to charities in Guernsey and Jersey, funded by the Channel Islands Lottery.
In Guernsey, the Social Investment Fund (SIF) allocated over £500,000 to Guernsey Mind and The Youth Commission. Guernsey Mind received £274,000 between 2021 and 2024, enabling one-to-one support, training, and community awareness programmes for Islanders facing mental health challenges. The Youth Commission was granted £300,000 to provide early intervention for secondary school students experiencing anxiety, low mood, or behavioural concerns.
Tim Barker, Chair of SIF’s directors, stated: “These funds are vital for enhancing mental wellbeing and resilience in our community, ensuring lasting support for those who need it most.”
Meanwhile, in Jersey, £75,520 was awarded to Focus on Mental Illness and Jersey Eating Disorders Support. Focus on Mental Illness used £47,220 to run art therapy workshops aiding recovery and social connections. Jersey Eating Disorders Support was granted £28,300 for group counselling, awareness programmes, and peer support for those affected by eating disorders.
Additionally, £61,202 has supported other mental health initiatives in Jersey over the past two years, including Art in the Frame Foundation, Kairos Arts, and Jersey Action Against Rape.
Jon Taylor, Head of Lottery for the States of Guernsey, highlighted the Channel Islands Lottery’s commitment: “It’s rewarding to see these funds directly improving lives in our communities, supporting essential mental health services.”
Pictured: Karen Dingle CEO and Amy Dingle Deputy CEO of Jersey Eating Disorders Support
