As I reflect on World Mental Health Day today and the various posts I've seen, we must also ensure we make a difference and act. Yesterday I had the pleasure to be part of this wonderful event in West Yorkshire led by Emmerline Irving and her team. We were blessed with outstanding presentations from Becky Haas and Andi Brierley and many others, with speakers who also bravely told their own lived experience. So powerful and thought provoking. Listening to all the various contributors and thinking about what I took away from the event it seems to me that: 1. The act of kindness goes a long way – it isn’t reliant on funding, systems and public services working together – it’s free and within our gift to do 2. Having said that………. we must have the infrastructure to enable the wonderful people and organisations we heard from yesterday to be there when needed – therefore we do need funding, systems and public services all working together to support people at the right time 3. To appreciate that someone may not be ready or able to accept help, but to never give up trying or being there – persistent will pay off and it could change someone’s life 4. Be there for people without judgement. Be compassionate, patient and hold a safe space when needed 5. Listen to the people that know what might help. People with lived experiences must be our guiding light when considering solutions 6. Encourage a stronger focus on early intervention, which in the long run will not only better serve our communities but also save money if we can reduce and hopefully prevent a decline in health and custodial pathways being needed Be kind and understanding. Listen and make a difference.
Today, amazing colleagues from West Yorkshire united to exchange experiences and insights on trauma-informed criminal justice. Inspirational speakers, shared stories, laughter, tears and fostered connections. I am honored to collaborate with change-makers who embody the change they seek. Join the West Yorkshire Movement to make a difference: https://lnkd.in/eR-znC4f West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership Alison Lowe OBE Lee Berry Becky Haas Dr Lisa Cherry FRSA Andi Brierley Kelly Laycock
Founder & CEO at AJ Recruitment Ltd & turro and Founder & CEO of Temp Rewards
2moWholeheartedly agree Annabel Lane