FUNDING of more than £34,000 has been secured for grassroots projects to improve mental health and wellbeing.

Organisations in Ryedale can apply for extra funding through North Yorkshire County Council (NYCC) to promote mental health, especially supporting men.

According to national statistics, between 2015 and 2018 the highest number of suicides were among men aged 40 to 59 in North Yorkshire.

The aim of the funding is to support a national initiative to reduce suicide rates in England by 10 per cent during 2021.

“Statistics show that, at some point in their lives, one in four people will experience mental health issues,” said County Cllr Caroline Dickinson.

“In North Yorkshire, that’s around 150,000 people, more than the populations of Harrogate and Scarborough combined.

“We can have good or poor mental health, just as we have varying physical health, and we can all experience changes in our mental wellbeing from time to time.”

The funding is for projects which strengthen and build people’s resilience, reduce stigma and discrimination, developing mentally healthy communities and reduce loneliness and social isolation.

Next Steps, in Norton, has continued mental health services in rural communities by delivering medication, providing online one-to-one sessions and reopening their cafe facilities.

“Without the generosity of the local council, we couldn’t survive,” said Leisa Burniston, manager at Next Steps.

“Since the beginning of lockdown in March, we have experienced a rollercoaster ride of massive highs and disheartening lows.

“The coronavirus pandemic is neither black nor white – it’s constantly grey with many changes.

“During lockdown the sunny weather was on our side, but autumn and winter will prove challenging.

“People are normally more vulnerable during the winter months – add in additional anxieties caused by the pandemic and mental health will really suffer.

“A silver lining is the continuous community spirit and generosity; it provides the momentum to keep pushing forwards and provide all the support we can.

“If you are struggling, please do not suffer alone – we can help.”

Organisations can bid for funding between £500 and £4,000 until November 8, at midnight.

To apply, email amber.Graver@northyorks.gov.uk