Leader’s Corner

16 May 2025 – Mental Health Awareness Week – Putting People First

Photo of Leader next to a people in front of van

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.

9 May 2025 - Marking VE Day 80 in Southampton  SHOW


2 May 2025 - Take action to help lower your bills SHOW


25 April 2025 - Making a Big Difference in Southampton SHOW


18 April 2025 - Maintaining our road networks SHOW


11 April 2025 - Spring into action in Southampton this Easter!  SHOW


4 April 2025 - Portswood Rec Refurbishment SHOW


31 March 2025 – Local Family Hubs are supporting local families SHOW


21 March 2025 - Transforming how we use our land and buildings SHOW


14 March 2025 - Sharing your life to make a difference SHOW


19 February 2025 - Council cease use of X (formally Twitter) as a social media platform SHOW


14 February 2025 - Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week in Southampton SHOW


7 February 2025 - Fast track devolution announced SHOW


17 January 2025 - Investing today for a brighter future SHOW


10 January 2025 – An update on devolution SHOW


3 January 2025 – A Happy New Year from us all at Southampton City Council! SHOW


13 December 2024 – Southampton City Council and Southampton Football Club working together SHOW


6 December 2024 – Small Business Saturday SHOW


29 November 2024 – Bus services funding boost SHOW


25 November 2024 – Make the White Ribbon Promise   SHOW


15 November 2024 – City Survey SHOW


8 November 2024 – Southampton will always remember SHOW


1 November 2024 – The impact the Autumn Budget 2024 has on Southampton SHOW


25 October 2024 – Transformation and budget update SHOW


18 October 2024 – Southampton, a city of compassion SHOW


11 October 2024 – New Play Parks! SHOW