4 WINDS USER LED ASSOCIATION

4 Winds User Led Association is an independent, user-led mental health charity based in Cardiff, Wales. It provides community-based mental health resource services aimed at improving mental health and wellbeing for people living in Cardiff, the Vale of Glamorgan, and surrounding areas. The organisation focuses on recovery-oriented support, promoting inclusion, and empowering individuals who have experienced mental health difficulties[1][2][3].

History and Legal Status

The association was incorporated as a private company limited by guarantee without share capital on 30 July 1998. It is registered as a charity under number 1071770, operating under the regulatory oversight of the Charity Commission for England and Wales[2][5].

Mission and Objectives

4 Winds exists to provide open-access, user-led mental health services that emphasize recovery and support for individuals affected by mental illness. The organisation aims to counter social exclusion and disempowerment by fostering environments and opportunities where people can reach their potential and lead fulfilling lives within their communities. It embraces the principle that everyone has the right to recovery and active community participation[3].

Services

The association offers a broad range of recovery-focused services, which include:

• Emotional and practical support
• Peer support and social contact opportunities
• Information provision and signposting services
• Social prescribing
• Training courses
• Vocational support
• Women-only support groups
• Guided self-help services

These services are designed to be accessible without the need for referral, reflecting the user-led and inclusive ethos of the organisation. 4 Winds has adjusted its service delivery to provide a combination of remote and in-person support, including outdoor peer support sessions and community activities, particularly in response to the Covid-19 pandemic[1][3].

Impact and Community Feedback

The charity’s work has been well received by service users who report increased confidence, reduced isolation, enhanced social networks, and access to training and volunteering opportunities. Testimonials highlight the respectful, supportive environment and the meaningful impact 4 Winds has on their lives in fostering recovery and purposeful activity[1].

Governance and Operations

Registered as company number 03607430, 4 Winds User Led Association operates from its base in Cardiff. It files regular accounts and confirmation statements in compliance with company and charity regulations. It classifies its business activities under social work without accommodation, providing targeted community support[5].

This article serves to summarize the essential aspects of the 4 Winds User Led Association, highlighting its role as a vital user-led mental health charity in Wales dedicated to community recovery and empowerment.

[1] https://4winds.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?subid=0&regid=1071770 [3] https://www.cavamh.org.uk/directories/4winds-user-led-association/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3954650/full-print [5] https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/03607430