Victory and beyond in Nelson

The Mental Health Foundation is encouraging all New Zealanders to play their part in looking after their mental health and by doing so helping create a society where all people flourish.

Each day this week the Foundation will be releasing an article highlighting flourishing communities from around the country. Today’s community is Victory.

In the past the Nelson suburb of Victory was better known for it high rates of drug abuse and gang violence, but in 2007 the Victory Village Community Health Centre was built and has since played an important role in the community’s transformation.

The centre offers access to a low cost doctor and a range of regular free services from hearing tests and Plunket to work and income services plus a wide range of social activities such as badminton, dance classes and a writers’ group.

There’s no disputing Nelson’s Victory is now a top community. In fact, it’s official: at the inaugural New Zealander of the Year awards in February it scooped up the community award.

To find out more about Nelson’s Victory Village Community Health Centre please visit http://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/newsletters/view/article/21/285/2010/.

“The people of Victory have worked hard to turn their community around” says Judi Clements, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation. “By taking action and working towards their goals they have created a nationally recognised flourishing community. Through their commitment they can now not only see the benefits but enjoy them together.”

A series of exciting events have been planned for the week throughout New Zealand, including various forums and workshops, art exhibitions, musical performances and more. Check out our events calendar - http://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/page/777-2010-flourishing-for-everybody+events-calendar.

Mental Health Awareness Week begins today, with World Mental Health Day taking place on Sunday 10 October. It is endorsed by the World Federation for Mental Health and marked in over 150 countries.