Liverpool City Council is actively participating in Mental Health Awareness Week by emphasizing the importance of ‘Community’ and acknowledging the crucial role of local relationships in sustaining mental health and overall well-being. Research has shown that strong social connections with friends, family, neighbors, or community groups can significantly enhance happiness and well-being, while feelings of loneliness and social isolation can contribute to poor physical and mental health.
According to ‘The State of Health in the City: Liverpool 2040’ report, approximately 75,800 individuals in Liverpool are presently diagnosed with depression. The report also projects that by the year 2040, this number is expected to more than double to 164,200 people, which would translate to around 1 in every 3 adults. In light of these statistics, Liverpool City Council has pledged to invest in mental health and well-being initiatives and is teaming up with partners throughout the city to bolster support, improve early intervention, and prioritize preventive measures.
One of the key initiatives supported by the Council is the Community Champions project, which has secured £900,000 in funding. This project offers assistance to ten community organizations over a span of three years starting from September 2024. In collaboration with Public Health, these organizations will raise awareness about mental health throughout the city and also advocate for broader health and well-being objectives. Each organization has a designated Community Champion whose role involves disseminating health messages, coordinating community events, and creating safe spaces conducive to open conversations about mental health and overall well-being.
In line with the Mental Health Awareness Week celebrations, Liverpool City Council is hosting a series of free events and activities at Newsham Park, with support from the Neighbourhoods team. These sessions aim to bring residents together through games, activities focusing on well-being, and opportunities to engage with local services and community groups in a welcoming and open environment. It provides individuals of all age groups with a platform to come together, enjoy the park, and participate in a broader dialogue concerning mental health and community well-being. Further details about the planned activities for the week can be found on the Liverpool City Council website
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