New ‘Shared Ground’ Support Group Launches to Help Carers of Adults with Serious Mental Illness

Shared Ground is a new monthly support and information group for people who are caring for an adult loved one living with serious mental illness, offering a safe space to talk, listen, and learn together.

Hosted at The Anthony Seddon Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne, the group is run in partnership with Tameside Primary Care Network and Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust.

A space for carers and families

Caring for someone over 18 who is on a mental health ward or receiving support from a Home Treatment Team, Early Intervention Team, or Community Mental Health Team can feel overwhelming and isolating. Shared Ground is designed specifically for parents, partners, relatives, and friends in this position, recognising the emotional toll as well as the practical challenges that come with supporting someone through serious mental illness. The group welcomes anyone who wants to better understand mental health services, connect with others in similar situations, or simply sit and listen in a supportive environment.

What participants can expect

Each session offers a calm, confidential setting where attendees can share their experiences with others who genuinely understand what it means to care for someone with complex mental health needs. There is time to ask questions about treatment, services, and day‑to‑day caring challenges, with facilitators helping to explain how different parts of the local mental health system fit together. The group also invites suggestions from participants so that future sessions can be shaped around the issues that matter most, such as crisis planning, communication with professionals, or looking after your own wellbeing as a Carer.

When and where it runs

Shared Ground meets on the first Tuesday of every month from 1:00pm to 2:30pm at The Anthony Seddon Centre. The Centre is located at 12 George Street in Ashton‑under‑Lyne and operates as a peer‑support mental health hub for the Tameside community, offering a welcoming drop‑in and a range of groups and activities focused on wellbeing and connection. Sessions are free to attend, though places may be limited, so prospective participants are encouraged to get in touch in advance to confirm availability.

How to get involved

Anyone interested in attending Shared Ground can contact The Anthony Seddon Centre by email at reception@tasfund.org.uk or by calling 0161 376 4439 or book a place.

Whether you want to share your story, learn more about available services, or simply sit in a room where others understand, the group offers a compassionate, non‑judgemental setting for anyone supporting an adult with serious mental illness