Clubhouse premises raise concerns

Clubhouse Gibraltar unveiled its annual report yesterday, highlighting the positive work of its members in raising awareness of mental health issues.

But the event also served to lay bare concerns and frustrations about the group’s current premises.

During an hour-long presentation, Clubhouse officials said it now had more members than ever before and was making a difference to the lives of many people.

But the question and answer session after the presentation was dominated by the issues surrounding the premises.

Audience members quizzed Club House Chief Executive Officer Emily Adamberry Olivero and Chairman Dr Rene Beguelin about the inadequacy of the building situated by Trafalgar roundabout.

The event held publically at the John Mackintosh Hall was attended by Minister for Health Dr John Cortes and GSD Shadow Minister for Health Marlene Hassan Nahon.

“To get people from abroad and see us in a dump…I know you can’t judge a book by its cover but first impressions count,” Ms Adamberry told the Chronicle.

“We feel a little bit embarrassed that this is what Gibraltar is going to present to the world as the best it can offer.”

As a result of this, Club House has paused its efforts to obtain full accreditation from the international association.

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