Hello everybody, thankyou for taking the time to look through my page.

My name is Paige and I am currently studying Psychology at Manchester Metropolitan University. 

In the summer of 2017, on June 19th I will be travelling to Sri Lanka to take part in a ten week mental health placement which was created by the organisation SLV. The mental health placement will consist of a 9-5 working day during the week, volunteering with children and adults in a range of projects each day.

This experience will involve going to a psychiatric facility and rehabilitation centre, to help those who suffer mental illness in their recovery such as running therapeutic activities for patients on the wards. Other projects will consist of teaching English to adults and young children where I will be working with the existing staff to provide a more in-depth language learning education, planning all our own lessons and working in groups with other volunteers to provide the best education possible for the students. During this placement I will also be working at various projects such as addiction centres and hospitals.

Unfortunately, individuals with special needs and disabilities in Sri Lanka aren't supported as well as those in developed countries and often there is no differentiation made between disability and mental illness. Another focus during my time in Sri Lanka will be giving support to individuals with special needs by arranging activities for them such as Creative Therapy and Meditation.

Not only will my experience benefit the Sri Lankan community it will also give me a chance to gain hands on experience and an up-close understanding on how mental health treatment works within a different culture which will better my understanding of human behaviour. Being able to apply the psychology I’ve already learnt and make a difference in real life, even more so, in another culture, is amazing. Unlike many other placements, this isn't like a holiday I will be living with local families to experience Sri Lanka from the inside. This is a fantastic opportunity for myself to really contribute to making a difference towards the Sri Lankan community and to gain some valuable life experience.

So I would really love the support and help to fundraise for me going away to help those less fortunate. Mental health is such an important aspect of our lives, and effects everyone around the world so your help will make a difference!

Thankyou, Paige. 
 

For more information about this amazing organisation, visit www.slvolunteers.com or view their Youtube channels https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ7Gl1rZ4GafeBaeNTHlRxA 

My contact details - 07468496325