THE Rethink mental illness charity is hosting an auction of promises on October 10.

It aims to raise awareness of the services it offers in Dorset and to celebrate World Mental Health Day.

The free event will be held at the Corn Exchange in Dorchester. Lots will include a round of golf for four people, spa vouchers, jewellery and food hampers.

Pauline Sparks, from Rethink, said: “Some people with mental illness feel lonely and are afraid to talk about their problems. We wanted to host this event to show them that they’re not alone and that there’s help out there.”

Rethink offers services for people with mental health problems such as depression and schizophrenia. In Dorchester, it runs a kiosk staffed by volunteers with mental health problems.

The cooking skills and work experience they gain improves their prospects of finding paid work.

The charity also helps people with mental illness to live independently by supporting them to learn skills like cooking and budgeting.

It also helps reduce social isolation by encouraging people to do simple but effective things such as taking up a new hobby or joining a club.