AWAAZ would like to welcome you the readers to our exciting new informational Newsletter, tailored especially to increase awareness of mental health and related issues. Awaaz (Inner Voice) is a voluntary organisation; we work closely with people from ethnic backgrounds that are suffering from mental ill health. Our aim is to allow people to speak up, support each other and share experiences. Awaaz has successfully provided this service for over 10 years within the Cheetham Hill area, we work side by side with Social Services and G.P's to provide a comprehensive service to users. Our services include a group of trained and experienced Advocacy workers that will assist and support you. An active weekly drop in session for both men and women has also been set up as an open forum or to discuss the more serious issues relating to mental health. Trained counsellors are also available for those people who feel in need of support and guidance concerning more delicate issues.

This newsletter will be produced on a monthly basis, containing up to date information about issues surrounding mental health and related treatments. Alternative therapies will also be introduced. Each newsletter will focus on one particular mental illness including the causes, symptoms and treatments. Current issues within the mental health sector will also be considered in terms of government guidelines and current regulations. We will also keep you updated on local news and events.

We hope you will find Rehnumah to be an educational and useful newsletter, please contact us if you have any further suggestions or comments to what you would like to read in this newsletter. If you would like further information of our services please contact Amna, Aisha or Usman on 0161-721 4441. (Please write to Awaaz Manchester, 464 Cheetham Hill Road Manchester M8-9JW).

AWAAZ - A Comprehensive Service

The provision of mental Health services to people from the South Asian community has been the subject of growing concern within the Asian communities. Over half of the minority ethnic population in the UK is of South Asian origin and are characterised by a range of diversities including religion and cultural traditions. Research shows that Asian mental health service users experience problems including inappropriate treatment and care, lack of services specifically aimed at Asian people with mental health problems.

Forthcoming event

Awaaz and World Mental Health Day (WMD).
12th October 2004

WMD is an annual event, which aims to promote and educate people about mental health across the world. Awaaz takes every opportunity to promote various issues surrounding mental health, and is proud supporter of WMD. This year the advocacy team at Awaaz have organized a local event to mark the occasion. Various local mental health organizations will be attending to promote their services (Urdu and Punjabi speaking advisors will also be available. Guest speakers including seminars on women's health, family link workers, and health visitors will also be attending. Trained counsellors and mental health advocates will also be present or service information and support.

This year WMD is focusing on mental health and physical well being. Looking after our bodies as a way of improving and maintaining good mental health. To emphasize these issues Awaaz will also be organizing alternative therapy demonstrations such as relaxation massage and acupuncture demonstrations

This event will take place in Saffron on Cheetham Hill Road on 12th October ( the time is yet to be decided watch this space in next month's issue). A delicious 5 course meal will also be provided along with drinks and sweet dishes.

Members of the public are welcome, crèche facilities are available for Awaaz Learn Direct students (limited places please book in advance). For further information regarding this event please contact Amna or Aisha on 0161 721 4441.

If you have any ideas or would like to attend the event as a guest speaker or just to promote your service (mental health related) within the Cheetham Hill area please contact Amna or Aisha on 0161 721 4441.