Mental health support is being promoted at food banks across Tameside this Christmas to help residents who may be struggling during what can be a particularly challenging time of year.
The festive period can heighten feelings of bereavement, low mood, anxiety and depression, especially for people also facing financial pressures. In response, Tameside Council is working with local food banks, The Bread and Butter Thing and other partner organisations to ensure people know where to turn for help.
As part of the initiative, flyers listing local mental health support services and the Hub of Hope mental health support network are being placed inside food parcels and bags. Citizens Advice officers are also providing outreach support sessions for food bank users.
The work forms part of wider mental health awareness and suicide prevention activity linked to Tameside’s Suicide Prevention Strategy, which aims to increase awareness and access to support following a rise in suicide rates in the borough in recent years.
Financial hardship, bereavement, unemployment and relationship breakdown are among the factors that can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts. However, early support, strong personal networks and access to services can make a vital difference before problems escalate.
Councillor Tafheen Sharif, Tameside Council Executive Member for Public Health, said Christmas can be an extremely difficult time for many residents.
She said: “You do not have to face this time of year alone. Support is available, and we want people to know help is there whenever they need it.
“Food banks play an incredible role at the heart of our communities. By working together again this year, we are helping to reach people who may be struggling, particularly with the added pressures that winter and the festive season can bring. Even if someone doesn’t need support now, having this information could help them or someone they know in the future.”
The council is also encouraging residents to complete free online suicide awareness training, designed to help people recognise warning signs and feel confident in supporting someone who may be feeling suicidal.
Anyone experiencing financial difficulty is also invited to attend a Household Support Fund information session on January 8, 2026, from 1pm to 3pm at New Life Church in Ashton. The fund offers a one-off grant to help low-income households with food and fuel costs, reducing reliance on emergency food provision during the winter months.
Support services remain available throughout the festive period, and residents are encouraged to reach out if they or someone they know needs help.