Mind is a UK-wide mental health charity offering an array of services for those experiencing mental health issues and in need of support.

One of their West London Branches, Mind in Hillingdon, offers peer-led employment support activities to support those with mental health issues overcoming employment barriers and improving their wellbeing. Their programme, which offers structured yet tailored, peer-support, supports confidence and resilience in participants through employability guidance services. These services operate alongside a wider peer-support network, which encourages enhanced social inclusion, friendship and community. These improvements collectively contribute to better overall health and social inclusion, enabling individuals to lead more fulfilling and independent lives.

The project provided a ‘stepping stone back into the workforce’ for Kuldip. Kuldip, who struggled with his confidence and ability to seek employment due anxiety and depression, was able to access tailored coaching and employment workshops to build his independence. Kuldip was successful in undertaking local volunteering work and eventually securing a part-time employment role at a local non-profit.

Coin Street is a social enterprise operating in Waterloo and North Southwark. We manage a 13-acre site including Oxo Tower Wharf and Gabriel’s Wharf. From a derelict site in 1984, we have created a thriving, diverse, vibrant, and welcoming place for people to live, work and play.

Our mission is to support health and wellbeing to everyone through a rich programme of sessions and facilities including fitness, dance, sports, creativity, life-long learning, volunteering, family support and social events.

We also recognise the need for health equality and champion communities where everyone has equal access to healthcare and activities. At Coin Street our aim is to create an inspirational neighbourhood and a healthy neighbourhood is key to achieving this aim. To encourage a healthy community, we offer a range of no and low-cost sessions for people of all ages, to promote both physical and mental wellbeing. ‘We want our neighbourhood to be a place where people feel happy and healthy, safe and secure, and where more than essential needs are met.’

Palma Black is Founder and Chief Executive of Soul Purpose 360 – a London-based enterprise for Black women. Its Resilient Women Build Communities project connects a network of women, supporting them to have their voices heard and reduce the mental and physical burden of structural racism.

Palma says: ‘no area of our lives is left untouched or unaffected by racism, whether this is in education, health care or the criminal justice system. All of these combine to create a perfect storm. It’s no wonder that we experience physical and mental ill health, because there’s no let up. We try to build confidence in our members, to encourage and support them to get involved in civic life. It’s a safe space where Black women can come to be themselves and listen and learn and be empowered to effect change.’