City of Culture launches mental health campaign

Bradford 2025 organisers have partnered with a mental health charity to offer free tickets

Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture organisers are offering free tickets to remaining events for people living with long-term mental health challenges.

The scheme is in partnership with local mental health charity Bradford District and Craven Mind.

Tickets for events at the Loading Bay, Damart Mill and other venues can be requested as an individual or as a group, and support workers are welcome to apply for tickets.

Bradford 2025 mental health lead Sarah Robinson said organisers wanted to ensure "this year of culture is for everybody, and that includes people who might feel overlooked or anxious about coming out".

Ms Robinson said: "For some, it can be tough to even think about leaving their home, let alone go to an event, yet it can be so rewarding.

"If there's anything that's worrying you about taking that first step to leave your house, we've got you covered."

Those seeking tickets need to fill in a form outlining some details, but do not need to say specifically what condition they have.

The City of Culture team said a person living with a life-long mental health condition may find that their ability to consistently function in daily life or maintain work and relationships can be a struggle.

Examples of long-term mental health conditions were listed on the City of Culture website as psychosis, bipolar affective disorder, schizophrenia, major depressive disorders, trauma or severe anxiety such as post-traumatic stress or obsessive compulsive disorder.

The offer is also for people who have not been diagnosed but have been living with life-limiting mental health challenges, and those living with long-term physical health conditions which affect mental health and wellbeing, or who feel lonely and isolated.

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