Ilona reflects on three years of Open Doors in Kinlochleven

For some, Open Doors is a wee lifeline to hang on to, a way to meet in safe space, to connect and be listened to – just like all the Open Doors across Lochaber. Just two or three folk came at first, then a few more and now there is a core of around 14 adults, with several teenagers popping in at break time to say hello and grab a biscuit.

Nothing is “off the table” in terms of mental health, nothing is taboo, but if you think it’s all heavy and sad, you would be wrong. There is often raucous laughter, sharing home grown fruits, helping with problems and the endless donations of biscuits. Sometimes we “zhoozh” things up a bit and theme our sessions or invite other organisations, and sometimes we really stir things up, especially during the holidays.

This Summer, Open Doors visited The Aluminium Story, came to the Hub Pop Up Shop and Café and best of all, were VIPS at “Murder in the Pyramids”, a very funny and colourful theatre production made by the young ones who often pop in at break!

Three years is enough time to see friendships form, watch people relate in loneliness, be astounded by kindness and astonished by bravery. The participants who thought they were the ones who could never walk through a door to something unknown, now walk shoulder to shoulder with others.

While it is fair to say that many of our regulars are senior citizens, it is also true to say that we have first time parents, single parents in their thirties, and lots of workers from other organisations who love to pop by for catch up. It’s the best place to find out all the amazing things that are going on around Loch Leven. And we always have good coffee!

Kinlochleven Open Doors runs almost every Friday, at Kinlochleven Library, 10.30am to 12.30pm. Can’t get through the door? Message us and we will walk in with you.