New venture Beeyou Support Hive launches to help community in Macclesfield
A new community interest company has started in Macclesfield.
Beeyou Support Hive aims to tackle isolation in the community.
It has been founded by Macclesfield resident Laura McKie.
Beeyou Support Hive launched on September 26 at The Prince of Wales pub, and has held two sessions since their launch, with their most recent being last Thursday.
"We aim to reduce isolation in the local area, said Laura.
"I wanted to create a safe space that was fully inclusive to all no matter what their circumstances are.
"So our name comprises 'Beeyou' stands for being yourself and 'Support Hive' to explain that it is everyone supporting each other.
"I know first hand how difficult it can be when you feel isolated and the massive difference having a support network can make.
"I formed the CIC with the aim of ensuring that no one feels isolated. Its something I have wanted to do for years now, but I've finally come to towards the end of studying, after a long eight years so finally have the time to make my vision a reality!"
A recent support session for parents or carers of kids with additional needs was held.
"I have two daughters with additional needs and noticed a gap for parent carers for children who have any additional needs," recalled Laura.
"So my first group I have set up is aimed towards all parent carers. We have some great charities here in Macclesfield, however many have requirements in order to obtain support, such as the child being within a certain age range or having a certain area of need.
"Beeyou aims to help fill the gap for those that don't meet these criteria as well as offering an additional form of support from those that have first hand experience of being a parent carer.
"All the sessions will have an activity for those attending to do, I know it can be daunting walking into a room and being expected to speak.
"Having an activity to do will hopefully help reduce these anxieties and enable those attending to have a little time to themselves.
"If they want to just enjoy the company of others by just sitting alongside they can do, or join in with chatting with others.
"We also have private use of Porters Prince of Wales [on Roe Street] for our parent carer group so everyone can talk freely surrounded by those that understand.
"I am hoping to set up further similar groups for those seeking friendship in near future."
Laura, who has a bachelors degree in psychology and mental health and is about to complete a Masters in the Psychology of Mental Health and Wellbeing, has lived in Macclesfield for 14 years.
"Alongside having experience as a parent carer, I have understanding of psychology and mental health and the difficulties individuals can face," added Laura.
"We have just held our second parent carer session on world mental health day. The session went really well with everyone taking home a bookmark and tassles we made during the group. It's so lovely seeing everyone enjoying themselves and hearing laughter and giggles.
"I would like to say a massive thank you to Porter's Prince of Wales for hosting our group and for their support.
"I would also like to thank those that attended for creating a lovely environment."
The next Beeyou session is on Thursday October 24, at 10am, Porters Prince of Wales.
The group is currently £4 to attend, to cover costs. However, Laura has her fingers crossed to hopefully secure funding to make the sessions free or reduced cost in the future.
at the moment you can pay with cash or bank transfer, with aims for card payment later down the line.
"Isolation has so many negative effects on both our mental and physical health," Laura also said.
"My hope is that the groups can help those that attend not only on the day, but help build friendship groups for support outside of sessions.
"In the future, I hope to spread the word about our parent carer sessions so they can continue to grow and provide support to more parent carers.
"I want to team up with local businesses to offer activities and showcase what amazing opportunities we have in the local area, with the hope that people can find new hobbies and interests to help their mental health further.
"I would be interested in hearing from local businesses that would be interested in hosting an activity for the group.
"I would also like to expand into offering low cost friendship groups that are open to all, so no one in the local community feels alone.
"Long-term. I would love the CIC to grow into a charity expanding into other local towns and villages in the nearby area."
Macclesfield: You can follow the new venture and get in touch on Facebook.
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