Fifteen Democratic Day Therapeutic Community

​Fifteen is a day programme, for up to 15 people, which is based on the Democratic Therapeutic Community (DTC) principles of support, participation and responsibility.   It aims to provide a safe environment for people with emotional, behavioural and relationship difficulties. By working together, the group helps each other find healthier ways of dealing with distressing feelings.

Fifteen is delivered by GMMH Trust.

Who is it for?

Fifteen is a service for people with the kinds of problem which often attract the diagnosis of personality disorder.  If you have some or all of the following problems then Fifteen may be for you.

• History of problems with emotions, relationships and behavioural difficulties possibly stemming from abusive experiences
• History of expressing difficult emotions through impulsive, aggressive or self harming behaviours
• High usage of psychiatric and associated services
• Problems with alcohol or drug use, eating disorders, mood disorders or other symptoms

How does it work?

Fifteen offers members a chance to explore their problems with others as well as hearing about other people's problems and ways of coping more effectively.  Group members are given space to think about how they get on with other people and how their problems may relate to this as well as being given feedback from others as to how they are experienced in the group.

Fifteen uses high levels of group member participation.  Group members have responsibility for all aspects of the programme including housekeeping, risk management, mutual support and the day to day running of the group.

How long is the programme?

Membership of group Fifteen is for 18 months.  After fifteen months of the programme, members are eligible to join the "Follow on Group" which then continues for another six months after they have left Fifteen.  The Follow On Group takes place once a month on a Thursday and provides a space for members to talk about what it has been like to leave Fifteen as well as to plan for the future. For a detailed breakdown of the day please click here: Fifteen Welcome Pack

When and where does it take place?

Fifteen takes place on a Monday from 10am to 3pm at Gaskell House Psychotherapy Centre.

If, having read the information provided, you would like to refer yourself or someone else to the Fifteen day programme please complete and submit an application form using the link below. 

Application Form 

Information Leaflet

​Please see below for a leaflet of the service's information:

Fifteen Leaflet