A Stockport mental health support service has won a major award.

The team at Open Door picked up the co-production award at the regional finals of the Great British Care Awards.

This charity, based at 72-72 Prince's Street, offers immediate one-to-one support for those experiencing mental health problems. The team there is being recognised for their 'outstanding' work.

Judges praised the team for "using their own experiences of mental health crises to provide deeply empathetic support [...] ensuring no one is left behind.”

The Great British Care awards are held annually, with shortlisted teams in a number of different categories. The Open Door team are in the running for the 'Care Team of the Year' in the North West region. The ceremony was held at Manchester's Kimpton Clocktower on Saturday 9 November.

“The team are so excited!", said Fiona Marsden, a manager at Open Door. "I am so proud of each and every one of them.

"What binds us together as a highly effective team is that every member has lived experience of mental health issues, or has been impacted by a loved one's struggles. So we really do understand at a personal level, not just theoretically.

"Everyone who turns to Open Door receives truly person-centred support from what has now been recognised as an award-winning team. We are over the moon with this award and with our work here in Stockport being recognised and valued. We look forward to the national finals and hopefully bringing home another trophy for mental health in Stockport."

The Open Door team will find out if they have won on 9 November. In any case, they've done Stockport proud by getting this far (Image supplied)

Open Door is operated by Making Space, a charity which provides general mental health support and advice.

Keri Smith, associate director for Making Space, "couldn't be prouder" of the team.

She also said:  "It's very important to us that our services provide alternative, therapeutic environments for people experiencing a mental health crisis. 

"The Open Door service has become part of the pathway of mental health support in Stockport, providing a safe and welcoming space for people, as an alternative to A&E and GP surgeries. 

"The Open Door team have extensive knowledge of their community and the help that's available, which they combine with their lived experiences and specialist qualifications to create a strong support network. Everyone who comes to Open Door is supported with empathy and compassion. We're so proud of the team for reaching the finals of these awards, and we wish all our colleagues across the care sector the very best of luck."

Open Door offers support via telephone, WhatsApp and video call as well as face-to-face support at its 72-72 Princes Street hub (SK1 1RJ).

The Open Door 24/7 helpline provides emotional support 24/7 on 0800 138 7276. You can also contact Open Door on [email protected] or at 0161 549 9717.

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