BANKIES looking for a bit of mental health support this winter will have a chance to see the services on offer tomorrow.

West Dunbartonshire Mental Health Forum are holding a “beating the winter blues” event on Thursday at The Hub in Kilbowie Road from 1pm to 3pm.

Glynis Boyle, development worker with the organisation, said this free event is a first and they hope to do more if it’s successful.

She said: “A lot of people are struggling over the festive period. It’s just slowing people down in what can be a very stressful time of year.

“A lot of people can find the season hard – it can see individuals in isolation when people are moving around to see family and friends.

“If people are potentially vulnerable, we want to put a safety net out there for them and hopefully connect them to a networking opportunity.”

There will be various holistic therapies on offer as well advice on coping strategies for both physical and emotional needs. Many different partner agencies, such as Y Sort It, Blue Triangle, and others will be on hand.

All are welcome, including those who may be caring for others. The event was made possible through funding to the forum earlier this year.

Ms Boyle added: “I think there’s always going to be a stigma for mental health or a fear factor for speaking out.

“We’re just making people aware there are services available and hopefully engage the community so they know there’s a network for them.”

Anyone unable to attend but looking for information can contact the forum on wd.mhf@btconnect.com.