Mental health support doesn’t always begin in a therapy session. Sometimes, it starts with a conversation, a shared experience, or simply feeling part of something bigger than yourself.
At The Arthur Ellis Mental Health Foundation, creating spaces where people feel supported sits at the core of what we do – whether that’s through fundraising events, community initiatives or honest conversations around mental health.
We saw this first-hand at our recent MasterTasker LIVE fundraising event. Bringing together more than 120 people from across Milton Keynes’ business and community networks, the evening raised over £4,000 on the night to support fast, accessible mental health services.
Our four incredible competitors, Dr Julie Mills OBE, Odette Mould MBE, Gamiel Yafai MBE and our winner Sarah Thorne, took on a series of pre-recorded and live challenges in front of a packed room, creating an atmosphere that was energetic, supportive and full of laughter. It’s the best night out we’ve had in ages! We’ll share the date of our next event very soon.
While fundraising was a key driver, events like this also highlight something equally important: the positive impact of connection and shared purpose on wellbeing.
People often underestimate the power of simply coming together. When we feel connected to others, part of a community and are able to talk openly, it has a huge impact on our mental health and resilience.
And that’s exactly why we’re so pleased to announce the return of our Summer Festival on August 23 at Great Linford Manor Park. The free, family-friendly event is built around our five wellbeing pillars – Move, Focus, Discover, Communicate and Help – encouraging people to engage with wellbeing in ways that feel practical, accessible and enjoyable.
Alongside our events, conversation continues to play a vital role in reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek support earlier. Through our Down But Not Out radio show and podcast with MKFM, we aim to create space for honest discussions around mental health, wellbeing and lived experience.
Recent feedback from our episodes with Chris Lefcovitch, Vanessa Wallace and Lucy Jones highlight just how valuable these conversations can be, whether it’s about gut health, perceptions or supporting our mental wellbeing, in an open and relatable way.
As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to an end, it’s an important reminder that support comes in many forms. Sometimes it’s professional help. Sometimes it’s community. Sometimes it’s movement, conversation or simply feeling less alone. And often, it starts with creating spaces where people feel safe enough to talk.
To catch up on the Down But Not Out radio show, visit the YouTube channel, here.
For more information on The Arthur Ellis Mental Health Foundation email hello@arthurellismhs.com or visit our website here.
