Mental health forum gets set for launch

A NEW mental health forum is launching this month in Dumfries and Galloway. It will bring together Third Sector organisations, partners, and independent sector providers to take a collaborative and collective approach to overcoming challenges in delivering mental health support across the region. The first forum will take place on Tuesday, May 27 at St George’s Hall, from 2 pm until 5 pm, and marks the beginning of a consistent, dedicated space for partners across sectors to connect, share knowledge, and drive forward innovative approaches to supporting mental health. By valuing the broad range of community services that contribute to positive mental health, the forum aims to encourage more inclusive, responsive, and preventative approaches. Each session will offer:

• Opportunities for connection and collaboration – including structured networking and informal discussion
• Guest speakers – from statutory services, third sector organisations, and independent providers
• Learning and development – on topics relevant to mental health and community wellbeing
• Person-centred introductions – to the people behind key roles in health, care, and support
• Opportunities to influence – feeding into relevant policy and legislation from a local perspectiv

Niomi Nichol, lead for Community Health and Wellbeing at Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway, said: “We need to respond to the needs of the sector and the ask from partners in recent months is that a dedicated mental health collaborative space is created. “Mental health is everyone’s business, every organisation has an impact on their beneficiary’s mental health and wellbeing in some shape or another and this forum will allow us to build shared understanding, strengthen relationships, and work together to meet local needs.” The Third Sector mental health forum is open to anyone working or volunteering in services that contribute to mental health and wellbeing across Dumfries and Galloway. To register your interest or for more information, contact: [email protected] or visit www.tsdg.org.uk/event/mental-health-forum.