Health initiative launched to get people talking
A MENTAL health initiative has been launched in Coventry with the aim of getting more people talking and looking after their minds.
Bin Feeling Down highlights issues people may be struggling with over the festive period, including debt, drugs and alcohol misuse and loneliness, and the support available.
Stickers promoting the campaign have been placed on rubbish bins, encouraging individuals to promote their own mental well-being. It was officially launched on the steps of Coventry Cathedral in University Square in partnership between Coventry City Council and Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust (CWPT).
Members of the public who stopped by could talk to Coventry city councillors and Talking Therapies staff and clinicians and get free complimentary refreshments and merchandise promoting the initiative. And Cllr Patricia Hetherton, cabinet member for City Services at Coventry City Council, said it was important to let people know that there is “always someone to talk to”.
Cllr Hetherton said: ‘’It’s all about bringing some of the most common and difficult issues people face during the festive season and throughout the year to the forefront, such as depression and financial hardship. We want our residents to know that there is always someone to talk to this Christmas and all year round.’’
Organisers say that in Coventry, like any city, numerous people are facing stress and anxietydue to financial hardship, longterm health conditions, and perinatal emotional well-being, to name just a few - and feel they have nowhere to turn.
Sonya Gardiner, Chief Operation Officer NHS Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust said: ‘’The Bin Feeling Down campaign is a crucial step in promoting mental health awareness and it is an honour that Coventry City Council is standing alongside us to get the word out. “This campaign will prove that we are here to support individuals facing a range of challenges, such as stress, long-term health conditions and perinatal struggles throughout this winter and beyond.”