Joseph Bikong shares his experience of the Barnet Wellbeing Service

A single story building with the white trunk of a tree in the foreground — Barnet Wellbeing Hub – (Credit – Joseph Bikong)

There’s something powerful about walking into a place where people not only listen but also want to help. I first heard about Barnet Wellbeing Service when a friend described how much more accessible and understanding it was compared to traditional mental health services. Intrigued, I decided to check it out for myself.

The Barnet Wellbeing Service, launched in 2018, offers a fresh approach to mental health support. It’s not just about treating conditions but about offering support that meets people where they are. The service focuses on what matters to you, not just what’s wrong. This shift in perspective was what really caught my attention.

When I first got in touch, I was invited to the Wellbeing Hub, where the process was simple and human. There were no complicated forms or long waits, just a friendly, informal conversation with a Wellbeing Navigator. They took time to listen, asking thoughtful questions that helped me reflect on my needs. It wasn’t about a diagnosis but about understanding what support would work best for me.

What struck me most was the sense of partnership. I wasn’t told what to do; instead, I was guided through options like talking therapies, peer support, and the recovery college, which focuses on building practical skills for mental wellness. This approach felt empowering, like I was in control of my own journey.

I found the recovery college courses particularly helpful. Initially, I was unsure about attending but I decided to give it a try. The course on mindfulness and managing stress was incredibly practical. It taught me strategies I could apply to handle everyday stress and build resilience. I also appreciated how the courses weren’t about fixing problems but about learning how to cope in a healthier way.

The peer support element was another key benefit. Connecting with others who have shared similar experiences gave me a sense of belonging. It wasn’t a formal therapy session, it was a space where people listened to each other and supported one another in real ways. This made a huge difference for me.

The Barnet Friends program, which helps reduce loneliness, was also a great initiative. It matches people with volunteers who check in regularly. For me, having someone to talk to, even just once a week, reminded me that I wasn’t alone in my experiences.

What I value most about the Barnet Wellbeing Service is its accessibility. It’s not a one-size-fits-all service. The Wellbeing Hub connects people to over 350 different wellbeing services across Barnet, ensuring there’s always something available that suits individual needs. The service is free for residents aged 16 and over who are registered with a GP in Barnet. However, with so many options, navigating it all can feel overwhelming at first.

Ultimately, what makes the Barnet Wellbeing Service so impactful is its holistic approach. It combines clinical care with community-based support, making it not just about treatment but about building resilience and offering ongoing support. It’s a service that empowers people to take control of their mental health journey.

For me, the Barnet Wellbeing Service has been a reminder that mental health is a journey, and I feel grateful for the support that helped me navigate it.

Joseph Bikong is a freelance writer with a focus on mental health, community services, and personal growth

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