Who are Champions?

These are anyone who has a lived experience of mental ill health, or someone who cares for someone mentally unwell or who feels passionate about changing the way people view those who experience mental illness.  Evidence shows that one of the most powerful ways to challenge stigma and discrimination is through ‘Champions’ sharing their lived experience with others.  These conversations help challenge the misconceptions and negative stereotypes around mental health.  Conversations can take place anywhere but where they have proved most successful is through engaging the public in an activity, or an event or workshop. A champion can contribute as much or as little, time as they wish. 

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Champions are provided with support to challenge mental health stigma and discrimination through our free “Speaking Out” and “Challenging Stigma and Discrimination” training.

Champions have successfully delivered a range of activities for members of the local community including, Hearing Voices Group Lounge, The Living Library and Who are 1 in 4?  

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With further funding available from Public Health at the London Borough of Waltham Forest, the aim is to build on current success and continue delivering the campaign for the next 12 months through online and face-to-face activities where possible.