The development of a community gym for people with mental health problems: Influences on psychological accessibility

Abstract

In this paper we explore the ways in which one innovative mental health service has attempted to address the issue of psychological accessibility and 'safety' for its users. Drawing upon an evaluation of a community-based exercise facility for people with mental health problems, and using a qualitative research approach, we explore the views of users, service providers and referral agencies to draw out those aspects of the service, which influence accessibility. Our findings emphasise the importance of the facility's non-institutional appearance, its community location, and the perceived (physical and psychological) 'distance' from medically based mental health services. meaningful to service users and socially valued (and therefore non-stigmatising). Crucial to reducing any potential psychological 'risk' involved in participating in exercise regimes for vulnerable people is the relationship fostered between staff and service users, the level of individual support provided, and the flexible approach to users' progress. Activities on offer are