Community projects

Between October 2007 and March 2011, we ran 28 local community projects across England. 

These were delivered by local Mind associations and Rethink services, and together have engaged over 48,000 participants in activities to improve their wellbeing and confidence.Many of the projects did this through physical activity, which had a positive impact on people’s mental health and self-esteem.

Taking part in this activity has changed my whole life. I mean it. It’s given some structure to my week and I’m loving it. I didn’t think I would ever play football; it hadn’t even entered my head! Now everyone is saying how good I am! It’s the first time I feel I have achieved anything in my life. 

The community projects provided a local focus for our campaign, offering opportunities for local awareness-raising and involvement. For example, our project team at Sheffield Mind worked with the local PCT and mental health trust on a Sheffield-wide campaign, while Rethink’s Stuff Stigma project ran public engagement events in Norfolk in partnership with a range of local organisations.

As a result of taking part in these projects many participants have built the confidence to use mainstream gyms and other community facilities, gain qualifications, and take up volunteering or campaigning. For many, the confidence gained through taking part in these projects is a big step towards recovery, rebuilding a social life and getting back into work.

I wouldn’t have got involved in the campaign if it wasn’t for the exercise project. It was the first time I’d done anything like this, but I enjoyed talking to the public about mental health. I got more and more confident and had a smile on my face at the end of the day.