Jeff Amatto to host community support sessions and Wellington Public School program

Those struggling with their mental health or drug and alcohol use can find support and guidance by visiting Mr Amatto at the WINS Community Centre in Wellington every second Thursday.

Mr Amatto said he will be offering his counselling services to anyone who feels like they're in need of guidance towards getting the right support or who are just wanting to sit down and have a yarn.

"I've lived through these struggles myself, so I know the importance of speaking to someone who has also lived through the struggle of addiction and incarceration," Mr Amatto said.

"There's no judgement here and there's nothing they can tell me that will shock me, I've lived it myself.

"There is a different life out there waiting for you when you're ready to make that change."

Mr Amatto said all that's required is for those interested to pop in on Thursday, and if he's not already talking to someone then you will be able to chat with him.

Mr Amatto is also working with Wellington Public School through the implementation of his mentor program.

The program runs every second Friday to offer support and guidance to disengaged and/or struggling students.

"We take the students out of school for a couple of hours," Mr Amatto said.

"They do a 45-minute workshop and then we have a bit of a yarn and talk about the importance of respect among other important things."

Mr Amatto will be running the community sessions every second Thursday.

The school workshops take place at the WINS Community Centre every second Friday.

His next session for community members will be held on Thursday, February 18.

For future session dates, you can follow Mr Amatto on his Facebook page www.facebook.com/JeffAmatto.