National Ice Centre Partners with Nottinghamshire Mind to Launch ‘Social-Ice’ Sessions

National Ice Centre Partners with Nottinghamshire Mind to Launch 'Social Ice' Sessions

A new weekly social session has launched at the National Ice Centre in partnership with Nottinghamshire Mind to offer adults the chance to meet new people, socialise and skate.

The #Well Café sessions are designed to give people the chance to connect with others in the community, enjoy conversations and take part in physical activity with the aim of boosting wellbeing.

Taking place every Monday 10:45am-12:30pm, the weekly drop ins launched on 26 February and are hosted by Nottinghamshire Mind in the rink side Encore cafe. Open to all aged 18 and over, people can pop along for some or all of the session. This comes with the opportunity to ice skate for a reduced price of £5 from 11am-11:30am. Skate hire is included and the ice is accessible to all.

Beth Williams, Supportive Listening Administrator, Nottinghamshire Mind, said: “Mental health is becoming a lot more prominent in people’s lives. The chance to talk about it in a safe place with like-minded people may be just what someone needs to tackle difficulties in their lives. Our cafes are also a chance to socialise and meet new people in your area, developing a sense of belonging.”

The initiative has been launched following a long-standing relationship between the National Ice Centre and Nottinghamshire Mind. The charity was present to offer support for those struggling with the recent tragedy involving the Nottingham Panthers.

By throwing ice-skating into the mix, the organisers hope the new ‘Social Ice’ will attract a wider range of people who would be keen to take up the opportunity to be active. One of the participants at the first session was Crystal, who said: “Being on the ice gives me a sense of freedom that I don’t get elsewhere, and it helps me to open up about things that are on my mind.”

The charity holds #Well Café’s all over Nottinghamshire, with the National Ice Centre being its first in a city centre location. As well as just turning up, people can fill out the referral form on the Nottinghamshire Mind website or calling their general line – 0800 470 0203, so they will know who to expect and can answer any questions about the group beforehand.

For more information, visit www.nottinghamshiremind.org.uk/well-cafe 

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