COMMUNITY groups, charities and support organisations came together to promote mental health awareness and showcase the help available across the borough.
More than 300 people attended this year’s Tameside Mental Health and Wellbeing Festival.
Held at Dukinfield Town Hall, the annual event – organised by The Anthony Seddon Fund – featured 32 organisations from Tameside and Greater Manchester.
Now in its fifth year, the festival offers residents the opportunity to access information, take part in wellbeing activities, and hear from speakers sharing personal experiences of mental health challenges, grief and recovery.
Among the guest speakers was Esther Ghey, who spoke about the loss of her daughter Brianna and the importance of understanding the role social media and smartphones play in the lives of young people.
Also speaking was Mike McCarthy, who shared the story behind the Baton of Hope campaign and its work to raise awareness of suicide prevention.
Allison Furlong discussed the support provided by Alfie’s Squad for young people bereaved by suicide, while mental health advocate Jay Allen reflected on his own experiences and how they have shaped his work supporting others.
For the first time, organisers introduced live music performances throughout the day, adding to a programme that also included mini-Reiki sessions, sound bath meditation and a collaborative craft project where visitors created bunting featuring positive messages.
Representatives from charities, community groups, NHS services, Tameside Council and other public sector organisations were available throughout the event to provide advice and information.
The festival also attracted a number of civic guests, including the Civic Mayor of Tameside, Cllr Helen Bowden, and the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mark Llewellin DL.
According to organisers, feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with everyone who completed feedback forms saying they would attend a similar event again.
Ben James, General Manager at The Anthony Seddon Fund, said: “It’s fantastic to see the festival continue to grow and reach more people each year. Events like this are about bringing people together, raising awareness of the support available, and creating opportunities for people to have open conversations about mental health and wellbeing.
“We’d like to thank everyone who attended, our speakers, performers, volunteers, stall holders, partner organisations and supporters. The event wouldn’t be possible without their enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to come together to support our community.”
The event was supported by Tameside Council’s public health team and forms part of ongoing efforts across the borough to encourage conversations around mental health.