When my daughter was diagnosed with schizophrenia it was a very distressing time for both of us. Mindinfoline was such an invaluable source of information. They talked me through the various options available for my daughter and they sent me some booklets which we found really easy to understand. I can't put into words how helpful Mind was for both of us..."
Our vision is of a society that promotes and protects good mental health for all, and that treats people with experience of mental distress fairly, positively, and with respect. This is how we are making our vision a reality:
Well-targeted, supportive and reliable information has the power to change lives. It is vital to everyone experiencing or working with mental health issues. Our information services are accessible through: Mindinfoline which offers callers confidential help for the price of a local call; our legal line which provides information to the public, lawyers and mental health workers; our award-winning publications and www.mind.org.uk.
Delivering help directly to those who need it most is central to our work. We achieve this by offering local support and access to a range of networks. Our 180 local Mind associations - registered charities in their own right - offer specialised community support and care based on the needs of the communities they support. Our networks include Mind Link for all users of mental health services, Diverse Minds which aims to make mental health services more responsive to the needs of black and minority ethnic communities and Mind in Action our campaigning network. These networks, in turn, inform Mind's policies and campaigns, giving a powerful voice to members of some marginalised communities.
We campaign for the rights of people affected by mental health issues. We strive to ensure that those who use mental health services will have their voices heard. We lobby for improved services; better legislation; protection of legal rights, and for a more accepting attitude among employers. Join us to campaign for change.
The fight for good mental health relies on our supporters taking action and donating funds. Our broad base of funding from the public, from trusts and from companies - but never pharmaceutical companies - gives us integrity and the independence and freedom to stand up and speak out on the real issues that affect daily lives. Support Mind to help us keep our independence.
Professionals and lay people with high levels of awareness and training in mental health issues are essential to bring about change, end discrimination and promote good mental health for all. Mind offers a range of national and local training and consultancy services. These include: Mind Workplace - training to develop mentally healthy offices, applied suicide intervention skills, Mental Health First Aid, bespoke training sessions and a programme of conferences and seminars.