First meeting for mental health forum

A NEW initiative aimed at building stronger, more collaborative support for mental health across the region has been launched. The inaugural Mental Health Forum in Dumfries was attended by 40 people representing 27 organisations. It brought together a diverse cross-sector group, with attendees from third sector organisations, the NHS, and individuals with lived experience. And it featured thought-provoking contributions from national and regional speakers, including Jim Hume, chair of the National Rural Mental Health Forum, and The ALLIANCE Scotland, who highlighted the power of working together, while Lynsey Laird, of Borders Care Voice, offered practical lessons and inspiration for shaping Dumfries and Galloway’s own approach. Niomi Hamilton, from Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway who hosted the event, said: “There’s a clear appetite for working better together, and this forum will help us make that happen—grounded in dedication, commitment, the strength in working together and passion for delivering positive mental health support across the region regardless of who needs it and how it is delivered. “The room was full of energy, insight, and a shared sense of purpose and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. People valued the chance to connect, to have real conversations, and to begin building something new together. We don’t need to reinvent the wheel—just roll it together.” Feedback will now help shape how the forum develops and a short survey is now online at tsdg.tfaforms.net/168.