WITH mental health issues becoming an increasing problem, one south Essex charity has been hard at work over the last 15 years offering much-needed support.

Trust Links was formed in 2002 after churches pointed out that there was nothing for people suffering with mental health issues to do in the daytime.

As well as training, counselling and support, its biggest project is the Growing Together Gardens. The therapeutic gardens get people out in the great outdoors, help them make friends and gain new skills,

Chief executive Matt King said: “It has taken years to get to where we are now and it has evolved and developed from there.

“There are such benefits of the garden, we help a variety of people ranging from people with issues of anxiety, depression and stress to those suffering with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and those with learning disabilities.

“It has a social side to it where individuals can meet other people and make friends but also has physical elements – people are out gardening.

“It also improves individual’s mental health, from their self-esteem and confidence. They get to feel part of the community and feel valued.”

The charity currently supports 90 people and gets about five referrals every week.

Jason Gloster, 34, of Southchurch Road, Southend has been using the service for two years and knows first hand how vital it is. He said: “I never thought I would get this far. It was a slippery slope downhill for me and I couldn’t see things changing, but Trust Links really opened a door for me.

“I help with the chickens and in the garden and I love it. It gives me a sense of purpose and makes me feel human again. I go three days a week and there are lots of lovely people there. They have really helped me build my confidence and make me feel like I am achieving something – the alternative was sitting indoors doing nothing. I have even started my own business – Green and Tidy – which is gardening and litter picking. It is nice to give back and feel proud of the area.”

There are therapeutic gardens in Westcliff, Shoebury, Thundersley and soon to be Rochford. visit trustlinks.org