Five organisations have been nominated by members of the public for their unwavering commitment in promoting positive mental health across the city.

In May, a council- and NHS-endorsed charity asked locals to put forward names of those who have positively supported people experiencing poor mental health, in a scheme created by Saire Herschel-Clark. The idea came about when Saire, a co-founding member of the Southampton Mental Health Network, experienced a mental health episode in a Portswood supermarket. She was overwhelmed by the friendly support provided by staff and wanted to gratefully recognise them for their actions.

Network coordinator Chloe Naegel explains that those successfully selected will receive a “star for being a star”. Each award lasts a year and can be celebrated, displayed, and printed to demonstrate a reassuring commitment to improving mental health throughout their work. Co-founder Saire believes this initiative will create greater confidence among those out and about within our city.

This quarter, October Books, Southampton City Mission, the Co-operative Bank (City Centre), Board in the City CIC, and the St Denys Activity Group all received a prestigious star for providing safer environments, vital support, and friendship to individuals who needed it.

Sam Gregory, the City Centre Co-operative Bank manager, said he didn’t feel he had done “anything out of the ordinary” when approached by an individual with complex circumstances who had not been supported elsewhere. Upon receiving the award, he said:

“All she needed was some extra time and a bit of kindness so we could understand her situation. Then it was quite easy to find the best way to securely meet her financial needs and, most importantly, make her feel safe and valued.”

He added, 

“This nomination reminds me why we do what we do. We’re proud to stand alongside other Southampton nominees making a difference every day.”

Dedicated to making Southampton an even more mental-health-friendly city, the Southampton Mental Health Network aims to create welcoming spaces for discussion, shared understanding, and support for those living with mental health challenges.

Nominations for the next quarter are now open and can be made for any individual, organisation, charity, or business within Southampton to recognise their support in fostering good mental well-being.

More information and support can be wound at www.smhn.org.uk