THE mental health charity Basildon Mind has announced it is collaborating with four other local Minds to strengthen support for people across Essex. 

Each local Mind is connected to national Mind but operates independently, raising its own funds and delivering tailored services to its local community.

The coming together of Minds from across Essex was officially announced during Mental Health Awareness Week that concludes today (Sunday., 18 May). The new partnerships aim to offer a more joined-up approach, making it easier for people across the county to access services.

Denise Kent, CEO, Basildon Mind, says: "We're really excited about this new development. We're all stronger when we work as a team and keen to make the most out of the opportunities this partnership offers. With this year's Mental Health Awareness Week theme being community, it's especially fitting that local Minds are coming together."

She continued: "We want the people of Essex to know that wherever they are in the county – whether it's Basildon, Braintree, Epping, Chelmsford, or anywhere else, there's a local Mind ready to support you, a family member or a friend. We can help signpost you to the right local mental health services and make sure you're not facing challenges alone."

Basildon Mind works in Basildon, Billericay & Wickford - reaching out to all people in need of mental health support in their local communities. Their aim is to help people in the local community to have better mental health and wellbeing and to live the best lives possible. Basildon Mind provides a range of services to meet local needs. 

The five Minds working together across Essex are: Basildon Mind, Mid and North East Essex Mind, South East and Central Mind, Thurrock and Brentwood Mind plus West Essex Mind.

To discover more about Mind in Essex and to locate your local service, visit www.mindinessex.org.uk.