A support charity in Alfreton is offering weekly ‘Chill and Chat’ sessions for families.
Midday on Mondays is time for the sessions which are aimed at home educated children (and those not currently attending school) and their families.
Callum’s Voice, which is situated within Alfreton House, hosts regular crafts sessions for young people to enjoy.
Founded in memory of Callum who was tragically lost to suicide at just at 18 in April 2019, Callum’s Voice was originally a Community Interest Company (CIC) and then became a fully registered charity in February 2020.
A charity spokesman explained the mission of the charity: “To enable children and young people with Autism and mental health conditions to lead happy, healthy, fulfilling lives by: Improving public understanding of Autism and mental health conditions; Empowering children and young people with Autism and mental health conditions to build on their strengths to achieve their potential; Promoting good mental health for children, young people and families.”
Every Monday at midday the ‘Chill and Chat’ free drop in sessions at Callum’s Voice offer: A safe and non- judgmental space; Acceptance and inclusion; A relaxed atmosphere; A listening ear; Make new friends; and Free tea, coffee, juice and biscuits.
The charity spokesman said: “Parent/carer supervision is required at these sessions which allow children to socialise, grow in confidence, create and express themselves.
“Adults also get the chance to have a hot drink, chat and share ideas as well as browsing our leaflets and books.
“We don’t get any funding to run these sessions currently so rely entirely on the kindness and generosity of our fundraisers and donators.”
The spokesman said of a recent Chill & Chat session at Callum’s Voice: “We had such a creative and busy Chill and Chat session today. We did some amazing doodle art inspired by patterns found in nature and also the Minions.
“We also did an activity that involved using the rhythm of our breathing to create lines which we made into art. Some of our young people worked together using coloured shapes to make some very creative patterns.”
They continued: “We welcomed some first time attendees and new friendships were made and experiences shared.
“We also had some very insightful discussions about the impact of the Chill and Chat sessions and our activities. Thank you so much for those who attended today.”

For further information about Callum’s Voice and the activities and events they offer, go to here

To read more Spirit of Alfreton articles about the Callum’s Choice charity go to here

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