Leading mental health figures have come together to discuss wellbeing in Oldham.
Last Thursday (17 February), some of the leading voices on mental health met to talk about how Oldham residents can get the wellbeing support they need.
The event, which was hosted by Councillor Zahid Chauhan, Oldham Cabinet member for Health and Social care, featured discussions around what’s currently being done to support Oldham residents and what further action is needed to ensure good levels of wellbeing in the borough.
Cllr Chauhan said: “We must start taking mental health issues as seriously as we take physical health issues. Whether young or old, the importance of good mental health cannot be overstated. When psychological wellness is affected, it can cause negative behaviours that may not only have a detrimental impact on personal health but can also compromise relationships with others, including at work, at home and in our social interactions.
“We know that poor mental health can have devastating effects if left unchecked, and we’re seeing that more than ever with the past few years being especially tough for Oldhamers. This is why we’re collaborating across the Oldham system more than ever so we can take real actions on improving the wellbeing support in Oldham.
“In the past year, we’ve received funding for 16 mental health projects that I’m excited to see get underway. These projects range from new online support that all our residents can access for free, more training of mental health first aiders, more early intervention for families in crisis, developing more local support groups, targeting those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and a host of other initiatives that I can’t wait to see start making a real difference in people’s lives.
“These projects combined with what we’re already doing such as social prescribing, working with schools and supporting our own council staff shows our commitment to the importance of good mental wellbeing.
One of the projects to receive funding was to give online access to support website Togetherall which is now free for all Oldham residents to use. If you're an Oldham resident aged 16+ you can create a free account here to start accessing anonymous wellbeing support.
If you need to talk right now call Samaritans on 116 123 (UK-wide)
You can find more information on looking after your mental health and wellbeing on the Oldham Council website.
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