The Partnership Forum, held on 27 April, looked at how Partnership members can engage more work together to reduce stigma around mental health. Approximately 120 delegates from all sectors of the Partnership were in attendance.

Presentations and workshops on the day provided details of mental health issues in Middlesbrough, support services available and personal stories from individuals who shared their own experiences. Drama performances also depicted real life scenarios from both the working and home environment.

The closing presentation was given by Sue Baker, Director of Time to Change. Time to Change is England's most ambitious programme to end discrimination faced by people who experience mental health problems. The programme of 35 projects is led by Mind and Rethink. It is funded with £16m from the Big Lottery Fund and £4m from Comic Relief, and evaluated by the Institute of Psychiatry at King's College, London.

During her presentation Sue covered background to Time to Change, the latest on the campaign, the impact of work so far and how to get involved. Delegates were asked to complete their own pledges as to how they would help to reduce stigma around mental health.

Please use the below links for further information (and photo gallery)