Mental health summit discusses wellbeing of Oldhamers

Cllr Zahid Chauhan

Leading voices on mental health have met to discuss how Oldhamers can get access to wellbeing support.

The event, which was hosted by Councillor Zahid Chauhan, Oldham Cabinet member for Health and Social care, featured discussions on current support Oldham residents and what further action can be taken to ensure improved levels of wellbeing in the borough.

Councillor Chauhan said: "We must start taking mental health issues as seriously as we take physical health issues. Whether young or old, the importance of good mental health cannot be overstated. When psychological wellness is affected, it can cause negative behaviours that may not only have a detrimental impact on personal health but can also compromise relationships with others, including at work, at home and in our social interactions.

"We know that poor mental health can have devastating effects if left unchecked, and we’re seeing that more than ever with the past few years being especially tough for Oldhamers. This is why we’re collaborating across the Oldham system more than ever so we can take real actions on improving the wellbeing support in Oldham.

"In the past year, we’ve received funding for 16 mental health projects that I’m excited to see get underway. These projects range from new online support that all our residents can access for free, more training of mental health first aiders, more early intervention for families in crisis, developing more local support groups, targeting those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and a host of other initiatives that I can’t wait to see start making a real difference in people’s lives.

"These projects combined with what we’re already doing such as social prescribing, working with schools and supporting our own council staff shows our commitment to the importance of good mental wellbeing.

One of the projects to receive funding was support website 'Togetherall' which is now free for all Oldham residents to use. If you're an Oldham resident aged 16+ you can create a free account to start accessing anonymous wellbeing support.

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