Mental Health Resource is closing

Category: News Published: Monday 1 December 2025

The council was deeply saddened to hear the news that the Mental Health Resource will be closing at the end of January 2026.

We understand how important this service has been to our community and the impact the closure may have on those who have accessed support and come to rely on MHR.

Councillor Corinna Keefe, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities said: ‘I'm very sad to hear that Mental Health Resource is closing down. It's been a vital source of support for over 30 years, and we are really going to miss it in Tunbridge Wells. I'm grateful to the team at MHR and wish them all the best for the future. I'd also like to encourage anyone affected by the closure to reach out to other sources of support. There is still help available and you are not alone.’

Access to support is available.

Our priority is to ensure that everyone continues to have access to help and guidance. If you or someone you know needs support, please consider reaching out to the following alternative resources:

Every Mind Matters to get useful tips and guides to help look after you and your family.
Release the pressure talk to a highly trained and experienced team available 24/7 to provide expert support.
Live Well Kent is a community mental health support service to help you with everyday living, to keep active and healthy, and meet people.
NHS Mental Health and Information Hub is a resource with lots of useful information on it.

If you need to talk right now, there are many mental health helplines staffed by trained people ready to listen. They won't judge you and could help you make sense of what you're feeling. You can find out more here: Mental health helplines

A warm welcome at The Amelia Scott

While this change is happening, The Amelia Scott is once again a Warm Welcome Space over winter 2025/26. Their aim is to provide a safe, warm, and friendly environment for everyone in our community.

What’s on offer The Amelia Scott

Alongside our museums and art galleries, libraries and café, we have a range of events and facilities to give people somewhere welcoming to spend time together:

Device Charging Points available at no charge.
Creative Tables: When Baby Bounce and Rhyme is not taking place, we’ll set up tables with paper, pencils, and pens for you to get creative.
Board Games: Available at any time for you to enjoy with friends or family.
Pay It Forward in Fine Grind Café: If you can afford it, please buy a drink for someone who needs it.
Grand piano: a beautiful piano for you to enjoy.

Activities you are welcome to join

Free, drop in:

Silent Book Club: Join us every Wednesday from 10-11am in the Upper Atrium (by the piano). Bring your own book, enjoy quiet reading time, and chat with others at the end.
Stitch Club: Every Wednesday from 1-3pm. Bring your knitting, crochet, or sewing projects and enjoy a relaxing afternoon with others.
Arts & Crafts Sessions: Every Monday in December 2025, 10-11.30am in the Residency Studio. Spend time with others, get creative, and make new friends. (December only)
Dungeons and Dragons: For women, aged 18-30, every other Saturday. Please email daniel.huckfield@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

Bookable:

Creative courses for people whom are socially isolated: There is a new course every 12 weeks. Take a look here to book on to the next one What’s On - Amelia.
Creative Writing Course: In January 2026 this is a Sci-Fi/fantasy theme and later in the year we have a crime fiction themed one.
Take Some Time: Slow looking, mindfulness-based course at regular points throughout the year.
IT Buddies: If you need a little extra help with your IT sills please ask our front of house team to find out more.

Accessibility and Inclusion

Sensing Culture Group: The last Friday of every month, designed for blind and partially sighted visitors. Explore creative activities in a supportive environment. Find out more and to book here: Sensing Culture: Group for Blind & partially sighted adults - Amelia

Looking for something new to do?

Community Freshers Fair, 31 January 2026: Start the new year by discovering a new hobby, sport, or make new friends at the Community Fresher’s Fair at The Amelia Scott! Meet local clubs, societies, and activities – all in one place. No booking needed, just drop in.

Wellbeing Walks

We provide free, short and accessible walks across the borough, anyone is welcome to come along! Our walkers enjoy the benefits of friendly leaders, good company, fresh air, and stunning scenery. Most groups also take the opportunity to stop for refreshments after the walk. To find out more please visit Ramblers Wellbeing Walks Tunbridge Wells.