Frame of Mind's community work nets £5,000 prize

Frame of Mind collected the cash for providing vocational training for adults with mental-health conditions or learning disabilities.

The trainees learn picture framing and general business skills in a real trading environment.

Their growing confidence allows them to become more active members of the community and move on to volunteering, education and work.

This clear social objective for the Shripney Road community interest company made it the winner of this year's West Sussex social enterprise innovation award.

This was open to individuals and companies who could show they were helping the environment and the community.

Cllr Louise Goldsmith, the county council's cabinet member for the environment and economy, said Frame of Mind provided an outstanding service.

'Particularly impressive was the energy, enthusiasm and the commitment shown by both trainers and trainees at the company,' she said.

'Social enterprises are a growing and important part of the local economy in West Sussex and Frame of Mind is a shining example of what can be achieved by this kind of competition.'

The prize will be spent on computers, specialist software, scanners, digital cameras and other equipment to increase the products and services for customers.

They order framed photographs and artwork along with football shirt framing and other memorabilia.

Frame of Mind has 16 trainees with room for eight more.

Many are unpaid but trainees can go on supported work placements. Referrals come largely from community health professionals and doctors.

Frame of Mind is run by former mental health service user Theresa Bates. Her husband, Ian, is a volunteer in the business. He said: 'We are really proud to receive the award. It shows the strides we have made in a short period of time.'

The equipment bought with the prize would enable the business to provide the trainees with skills which could be easily used in the commercial world, he added.