FAQs

Since 1996, our group has been running successfully with the following mission statement: "Promoting the knowledge of mental health issues and empowering relatives and carers, in a confidential and supportive environment." ​ We offer people, who know of those who suffer from a range of mental health issues, someone to talk to, practical advice, useful information, interesting speakers, occasional social activities and other much needed support.

We offer our support to relatives, carers, friends and neighbours of people experiencing conditions such as  depression bi-polar disorder psychosis schizophrenia emotionally unstable personality disorder obsessive compulsive disorder neurodivergence: ADHD, ASD By joining the group, you'll soon realise that you don't have to face your difficulties on your own. We are a very open and welcoming group.

It can be difficult for carers to separate their caring role from the relationship they have with the person they care for. We consider a carer to be anybody who supports a family member, partner or friend who needs help because of their mental illness.

This question is best answered by comments and testimonials from our members: "Jigsaw has opened doors for us. We have come into contact with other people who are in a similar situation and being able to discuss in a non-judgmental way, confidentially." "Being a carer for a husband with severe mental health problems is a very lonely job." "JIGSAW is a lifeline for someone struggling to cope with the effects of a loved one with mental illness" "I feel connected and understood."  "I cannot praise the group enough and I thank them for the warm welcome and acceptance into the group." "Life now is better knowing we have support and someone to turn to, especially when the everyday ‘systems’ don’t offer the guidance and support that we need."  "I reached out to Jigsaw as it would be good to know that there might be others who have had similar battles to fight and who have had similar experiences when reaching out for professional help for their family. It can be a lonely road when you are simply trying to prevent someone you love from becoming another fatality statistic." "Their experience and advice can be of enormous help to those who are navigating the complexities of caring for a loved one with mental health issues."  "I felt so isolated as I didn’t know anyone who was going through anything similar. From the first meeting I attended, it was such a relief to be able to talk to other people who were not horrified by what I was saying."  "The group has been a lifeline for me and helped me to understand my daughter's behaviours and gave me the confidence to get some help for my own mental wellbeing." ...plus free refreshments, tea, coffee and biscuits are included!

We normally meet on the 1st Monday of each month, from 7pm - 9pm. We also run coffee mornings during the week, alternating between Malvern and Worcester.

If you are new to the group, and would like to speak to someone in advance of one of our meetings,  please email us in the first instance, or text or call, leaving a message on 0750 360 1737.

Sue, the secretary, and Roy, the website manager, who have both worked within the NHS and Social Services for many years and continue to have links with health and social care professionals. Run by carers, for carers, our meetings offer a safe, understanding space where you can share, listen, and feel supported by people who truly understand what you’re going through.

We are funded by voluntary donations from individuals, businesses and other organisations. If you would like to contribute to keep the group running and increase awareness, please go to our 'DONATE' page. Thank you.

No, we don't campaign for better mental health services. There are other local bodies which represent the views of services users and this is not the primary aim of our group.

No, you don't have to speak if you don't want to, but everyone who wants to will have the opportunity to do so.

No, there is no commitment. You can come to as many or as few meetings as you wish. Why not come and try us out at our next meeting? There is no pressure to join and no obligation to participate. We want you to feel comfortable.

Please feel free to contact us. An alternative source of general information and advice for carers is Carers and Communities (formerly Worcestershire Association of Carers.) Young Carers aged 6-17 years, can find additional advice and support here: YSS Worcestershire Young Carers (Youth Support Services). MIND  cwwmind.org.uk provides mental health support covering Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire.