A strong community can be crucial when life is difficult. That is why Fonden Sol og Strand has decided to support the association Outsideren with 25,000 kroner for their work with and for people living with mental illness and vulnerability.

With the support, Outsideren can continue its work with, among other things, writing and graphic workshops, open editorial meetings, and the user-driven journalism that is at the core of the association's activities.

– This is a donation that has great significance for our association. It allows us to continue meaningful activities for people who often find themselves without access to a community, says Boris Lauritzen, daily manager at Outsideren.

Outsideren is a voluntary and creative community where people with their own experiences from psychiatry can support each other and find strength in participating in meaningful activities and building valuable relationships.

– Outsideren exists because people with mental illness and vulnerability need to be taken seriously – not as patients, but as human beings and citizens.

Today, around 80-100 people are actively connected to Outsideren, while even more are involved from the sidelines. It is not a treatment or activation offer, but a space where many experience moving from feeling like an outsider to becoming part of a meaningful community.

– Many have been clients in a system for years – but here they are not. When they come to us, we are often asked: What can we use the offer for? We turn it around and instead ask: What can we use you for, says Boris Lauritzen.

– We invite users into a community without pressure of expectations. It is perfectly fine to drink coffee for two years, listen, and contribute when they feel ready. We do not have a goal of moving users from A to B within a certain time. We offer a platform where their voice and experience matter. It is crucial for them to feel met and valued.

The health clinic in Burkina Faso was set to close in February 2022, but Fonden Det Nytter has since been able to cover the operating costs. About Outsideren

• Founded 30 years ago as a user-driven initiative
• Publishes the magazine 'Outsideren' both online and in printed themed issues
• Runs a blog community, workshops, and creative activities
• Collaborates with, among others, Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen Municipality, and other user organizations