Positive Minds promises employment opportunities for entrepreneurs

4 November 2004

A new £120,000 pilot project to help people with mental health difficulties become e-business entrepreneurs has just been launched.

Positive Minds is one of 13 projects in the country set up to help people with mental health conditions become self-employed or start a small business.

The one-stop-shop, based in Enfield, Middlesex, will provide business advice, mentoring and training to around 75 people and will focus on the development of e-business.

Project Manager Mukesh Gohil said this type of business could be ideal for someone with mental health difficulties. Because of fluctuations in health and difficulties in holding down a nine-to-five job, e-business is particularly relevant as it may give the individual more control of their time.

There is a great deal of stigma surrounding this group and a great shortage of real opportunities for them. Positive Minds will work in conjunction with Barnet Enfield and Haringey Mental Health Trust. The project will be funded by the government until March 2006.

Notes for editors:

In Enfield 4,500 people been diagnosed as having severe and enduring mental health problems, with most cases in Edmonton Green. Nationally, research shows that one in six people of working age suffer from poor mental health. This can range from stress to more serious conditions such as schizophrenia.

For further information about Positive Minds visit the project website http://positiveminds.org.uk

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