Aberdeenshire Signposting Project Unit 10/11 Craigearn Business Park, Morrison Way, Kintore AB51 0TH 01467 628 713 admin@signpostingproject.org.uk

Background Information The Aberdeenshire Signposting Project was set up in 2004 by the Aberdeenshire CVS Network to deliver a non-medical mental health and wellbeing service across the whole of Aberdeenshire. The original concept was to enhance the mental health and wellbeing of people living with mild to moderate mental health conditions (mainly anxiety and depression), by helping them to identify and to access social groups and activities within their local community. In 2011 the core Signposting service was expanded, allowing us to provide a more in depth service to anyone in Aberdeenshire over 16. Social Isolation and loneliness, is a very real and ever growing problem in an area such as Aberdeenshire.

STATISTICS In 2015 – 2016 the project worked with 332 clients Clients progress through the project on average within 3 months. At referral stage, on average clients cite 6 or more presenting issues. 67% of referrals have come directly or on advice of NHS staff 85% of all outward referrals are to the voluntary sector 91% of clients cite loneliness and isolation as a factor in their low mood and wellbeing

STAFF TEAM Chief Officer – Karen Nicoll South Aberdeenshire (Kincardine and Mearns) – Deborah Benson Central Aberdeenshire – Scott Nicoll Central Aberdeenshire– Eimear Wood South Aberdeenshire (Lower Marr)– Claire Doyle North Aberdeenshire– Diane Marshall

AIMS OF THE PROJECT Improving Mood Reducing Isolation and Loneliness Improving Wellbeing Accessing Services Connecting with Communities Overcoming Barriers Support to Move Forward to positive destinations

SERVICE DELIVERY The Signposting Service – working with anyone over 16 experiencing mild to moderate health issues or reduced wellbeing due to circumstances in their life. We offer - support via one to one appointments, home visits, emails, by letter or telephone. We offer -a confidential and non judgmental service tailored to each individuals need. We offer – a solution focused approach to support clients through their issues affecting mood and wellbeing.

SERVICE DELIVERY Out and About Groups – For individuals over 55 years of age, to link them with like minded people and to find company and support to enhance their quality of life, mood and wellbeing. Aim – To connect like minded people to share interests and experiences and to meet, chat and laugh together. When – Groups run weekly, throughout the shire in various locations and last approximately 90 minutes Where – Inverurie, Westhill, Banchory and Ellon.

HOW TO REFER INTO THE PROJECT In order to make the service as accessible as possible, we accept referrals from any group, agency or organisation that has a client they feel would benefit from the service as well as taking self-referrals directly from members of the public. Referrals can be made by contacting the project directly by telephone, email, using the referral form on our website or by post.

CONTACT INFORMATION www.aberdeenshiresignpostingproject.org.uk 01467 628 713 admin@signpostingproject.org.uk 10/11 Craigearn Business Park, Morrison Way, Kintore, AB51 0TH