RESIDENTS are being encouraged to reach out to others who may be struggling with mental health.

With Mental Health Awareness Week being held from May 9 to May 15, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, John Dwyer, met with the charity Lean on Me to discuss support in the country.

One quarter of adults feel lonely and the mental health of many people has been affected by lockdown.

Lean on Me was founded by Rachael Dyer who said she saw how many people needed support, particularly men.

Rachael said: "Lean On Me was initially set up to help everyone and anyone, but I saw that support was needed particularly with male mental health, male suicide prevention and male victims of domestic abuse.

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"I am working tirelessly on my own to put in the support that is needed and will continue to put my heart and soul into anyone who suffers from mental health issues.

"I will be starting drop-in sessions during Mental Health Awareness Week so please keep an eye on the Lean On Me Facebook page for details."

One of the people Rachael has helped is Jay who moved to Cheshire from another part of the country.

Jay said he has received reliable support from Rachael.

He added: "When I came here I tried to get the support I needed.

"I came here to nothing, but since I met Rachael at Lean On Me I know I have consistent and reliable support.

"She helps me with reading and writing, listens if I want to talk, and helps with things like referring me to doctors.

"Without Rachael I wouldn’t be able to keep striving and pushing."

PCC Dwyer thanked Rachael for her work and encouraged people who have struggled with mental health to reach out.

He added: "Loneliness can lead people to a dark place, especially for men who often face stigma in speaking out about mental health issues, so I am extremely grateful to Rachael for her insight into mental health support in Cheshire.

"I want everyone in Cheshire to know that support is available, and that getting help starts with a simple conversation.

"It is up to all of us to promote services where people can get support and to start that conversation with people who may be struggling."

You can find out more about Lean on Me by visiting www.facebook.com/Lean-On-Me-111942097609149

For more information about Mental Health Awareness Week visit https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week