Mental health project launched for diverse groups

Leandra Litchmore, 21, says mental health is stigmatised in "our culture"

A new initiative aimed at improving access to mental health services for people from diverse backgrounds has been unveiled.

The Community Connectors Project held a launch event at Northampton's Grosvenor Centre on Friday to help individuals connect with mental health support.

The project, led by Northamptonshire Mind, seeks to foster stronger community ties and provide culturally competent care.

"A lot of the time in our culture, mental health is stigmatised; we think we're exempt from it when we're not," said Leandra Litchmore, one of Northamptonshire Mind's volunteers.

"Despite your race, we all experience mental health issues... and eventually they will be more comfortable and confident to talk about [their mental health issues] because they will realise it is normal."

The 21-year-old is one of the charity's designated community connectors in Northampton, and she said Mind had been "very supportive" with her own mental health issues.

Stacey Bryan, from Northamptonshire Mind, says the number of people accessing mental health services from diverse communities in Northamptonshire is not representative

Research by Mind found that 47% of people from diverse backgrounds worry they will not find appropriate mental health support, while more than a third have experienced stigma or discrimination from healthcare professionals.

The initiative will also train Mental Health Ambassadors; volunteers who will receive training in awareness, safeguarding, and active listening to support others in their communities.

Stacey Bryan, a another community connector for Northamptonshire Mind, said: "I think this project will make a huge difference.

"I've already had a massively positive response, and shouting loudly about [mental health]... in itself is helpful."

The project is funded by the National Lottery until October 2027.