World Mental Health Day (WMHD) takes place on 10 October, and this year’s theme is:
“access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies.”
The theme highlights the crucial role of ensuring that people can look after their mental health during times of global instability.
With migration and humanitarian issues at the forefront of national discussions, this year’s focus provides an opportunity to share positive stories, highlight local initiatives, and showcase creative projects that bring communities together. Across Leeds, many organisations are working to support refugees, asylum seekers and migrants, and we’re proud to shine a light on that work.
MindWell
MindWell’s mission is to help make Leeds a mentally healthy and compassionate city, where everyone can live well, feel connected and access the right support when they need it. A major part of that mission is removing barriers to mental health services, especially for those who face the greatest challenges. That’s why this year’s WMHD theme is being linked to local support for refugees, asylum seekers and migrants.
Resources include:
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Service Directory, including:
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Support for asylum seekers, refugees and migrant workers
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Housing and homelessness support
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Culturally diverse support groups
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Money and benefits advice
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Recite Me user guide – to translate MindWell pages into different languages
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Information on supporting someone in crisis
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Guidance on how life experiences affect mental health
Search the MindWell services directory to find details of service providers in Leeds, offering all kinds of support for all kinds of people.
Key Leeds Services
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Leeds Asylum Seekers’ Support Network (LASSN) – emergency accommodation, financial support, befriending and one-to-one English support.
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Leeds Refugee Forum – ESOL classes, youth activities, bilingual advocacy and community events.
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Positive Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (PAFRAS) – casework, mental health support, food parcels, toiletries and weekly drop-ins.
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RETAS (Refugee Education Training Advice Service) – specialist employment, integration and advocacy services.
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St Vincent’s Support Centre – immigration advice, housing and welfare guidance, employment support and education opportunities.
Local Community Mental Health Services
Take a look at the Forum Central member directory and filter by ‘Mental Health’ to see the details of over 100 organisations and groups in Leeds which have a mental health focus or strand of work.
