A newly refurbished mental health facility has been opened by Manchester's Federation of Jewish Services as part of its merger with the Healthlands Village.

Modelled on a cafe lounge, the ground floor space in Heathlands' Eventhall House in Prestwich was officially launched by Coronation Street star Jennie McAlpine at a party on Tuesday night. The actress takes a particular interest in mental health issues as her father Tom chairs a charity supporting mood disorder sufferers.

Transferring from FJS' former Crumpsall offices, the centre provides social activities and outings for adults isolated by mental or emotional difficulties. Money for new equipment was donated by Martin Glass, who completed a London-Paris bike ride earlier this year. It had previously been refitted to provide day care for older people after a donation by Ralph Fineberg, who also attended Tuesday's event.

FJS director of community services Mark Cunningham says the facility is now a better use of resources. "There will be a dementia support group for carers and the day services will continue to use it."