Why I became a Trustee
Joanna, Trustee and Vice Chair of Trustees at Cwm Taf Morgannwg Mind, explains why she became a trustee and how her role helps people with mental health problems.
My journey with Mind started when I was nineteen, and a very close friend took their own life, I was very fortunate within the university setting to have counselling, support agencies, good friends and an amazing, supportive mentor in a lecturer who was overseeing my dissertation.
I always appreciate how fortunate I was to receive this support and am aware it’s not always accessible and easy for others – this is why I became a trustee and Vice Chair of Cwm Taf Morgannwg Mind; to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem to get the advice and support they need.
Through my role as a Trustee, I lead the charity to make key decisions affecting the charity and the users of its service, all whilst working together with fellow trustees, the charity CEO and Senior Management Team.
I focus in on the charity’s aims and making a difference to people’s lives, supporting the wider health and social care system, whilst remaining independent.
Local Minds provide mental health services in local communities across England and Wales. Each local Mind is unique. They understand the needs of their community and they tailor their services to match. Services include talking therapies, peer support, advocacy, crisis care, employment and housing support.
They also:
- get involved in planning local mental health services
- campaign on local mental health issues and join in with our national campaigns
- help to change attitudes towards mental health in their area.
You can find Mind where you live here: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/local-minds/
Information and support
When you’re living with a mental health problem, or supporting someone who is, having access to the right information - about a condition, treatment options, or practical issues - is vital. Visit our information pages to find out more.
Share your story with others
Blogs and stories can show that people with mental health problems are cared about, understood and listened to. We can use it to challenge the status quo and change attitudes.
