Mind is the UK's leading Charity working for those with mental health problems. It helps people of all ages through a large variety of services, and has an active branch in Rushden. Unfortunately, its premises there were completely ruined over a year ago by a fire whose cause was never discovered. Since then its work has been carried out in a temporary and rather cramped building.
Early in 2010 Peter Crisp, the large department store nearby, ceased trading and Mind is undertaking a £70,000 project to develop a section of that building into a purpose-built centre with counselling rooms, café, lift and offices. A good deal of the work is being done on a voluntary basis by a team of four retired men with the appropriate skills, being a builder, a plumber, an electrician and a carpenter.
Two of the Rushden Lodges, Risdene and Pemberton, each donated £200 to help with the work, and on 21 October two members from each lodge were given a guided tour of the new centre which it is hoped will be in operation next spring. It was an inspirational experience for all, and it is very much hoped that further assistance for Mind's vital work will be provided.