Spotlight on mental health

A SERIES of events are under way across Runcorn and Widnes this month to boost mental health awareness.

Activities began on Monday, May 8, and are set to continue until May 18.

Runcorn Shopping Centre welcomed Halton mayor Ged Philbin on Monday to launch to launch Mental Health Awareness week, which is running every day 9.30am-6pm until Friday, May 12, at the mall.

Halton Health Improvement Team is on hand to give advice, supported by Citizen’s Advice Halton, Venus Charity, Anita Morris and Murray the owl from Hackback, the mental health outreach team and the SEND Partnership.

Next week on Wednesday and Thursday, May 17-18, Widnes Market is hosting a chance to head along and have a chat and find out about available support.

The Studio on Lacey Street will be hosting its third free family social event from 6-9pm on Monday, May 15, with four performances from four talented bands.

Supports services and an information point will also be on hand.

Free hot food will be provided on the night, although a donated item for Widnes Foodbank is requested.

A fun-packed Great Halton Bake-Off final is also coming up with the mayor tasked with picking the winner in the showdown at the Select Security Stadium.

More than 20 primary schools had entered the contest, which encourages youngsters to bake a healthy treat with their parents or carers.

Halton Council has also reminded residents about its #maketimehalton campaign, which urges the borough’s inhabitants to make time for simple activities to improve mental health such as going for a walk, chatting to a friend or relative or doing something nice. . Search online for Active Halton or Halton Health Improvement Team for more information.