Leader’s Corner
16 May 2025 – Mental Health Awareness Week – Putting People First
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’ve been shining a light on something that affects us all, how connected we feel to the people and places around us. Our sense of wellbeing often comes down to everyday things, a quick chat with a neighbour, sharing a laugh with a friend, a friendly hello in the local shop, feeling welcome at local community events or getting involved in local campaigns.
Being part of a supportive community makes a big difference. It reminds us we’re not alone, especially when life gets tough.
Southampton is full of opportunities to connect with others. If you’re looking to meet new people or just feel more involved, there are lots of clubs that provide a warm welcome to new people, a broad range of volunteering opportunities to suit a wide variety of interests, and as the weather is good, spending time on a park bench on one of our many green spaces across the city. These small steps can boost your mental wellbeing and add more colour to your daily life.
When I can, and it’s not as often as I'd like, I volunteer at St Albans Thursdays Together in Swaythling, a welcoming space where people gather to share surplus food and enjoy a cup of tea and conversation. It’s a simple but powerful example of how we can come together to support one another.
If you’re finding things tough, and I know it can feel hard to reach out, there are support groups, local charities, and community services that are there to help. I know from my own experience it can be difficult to walk in the door, but there are people over the threshold, waiting for you to step over.
Our city is working across the council, NHS, and voluntary sector to make sure everyone, no matter their background, can access support and feel part of a caring, connected Southampton. You can explore what’s available via our Service Directory or by visiting the SO:Linked website.
For workplaces looking to support the wellbeing of employees, or anyone wanting to learn how to better support friends, family or colleagues, I recommend the Zero Suicide Alliance’s free 30-minute online training, it could make a real difference.
Mental health matters every day and we all have a part to play in making Southampton a city where everyone feels seen, supported, and connected.