Stockport marks Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 with community-focused events

This year’s theme encourages reflection on how the communities we live in can offer connection, support, and belonging—essential elements for positive mental wellbeing.

The two-day Mental Health Community Fair, organised by Stockport’s Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) Mental Health Network, will take place at Merseyway Shopping Centre. The event will provide valuable resources, information, and opportunities for local residents to engage in open conversations about mental health and community support.

Event details:

• Where: outside Specsavers, Merseyway Shopping Centre, Stockport
• When: 12 and 13 May
• Time: 10am to 2pm

This event offers a welcoming space for those seeking support, as well as anyone wanting to learn more about mental health and the power of community. Visitors will have the opportunity to speak with support professionals, access local mental health resources, and take part in engaging activities designed to raise awareness and foster positive wellbeing.

Visit the team at the fair, or you can find useful tools and resources online at healthystockport.co.uk. Watch our video highlighting community connection and to see what’s on offer in Stockport including wellbeing groups at Life leisure and Stockport County Community Trust as well as local businesses that offer spaces for people to come together.

Cllr Keith Holloway, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said:
"In Stockport, we understand the value of connection, and we are proud to support a wide range of organisations that provide safe spaces and essential support for those with mental health needs. By working together, we can ensure that everyone has access to the resources and care they need to maintain positive mental wellbeing and feel empowered within our community."

The WorkWell scheme offers free support for residents with physical or mental health issues affecting their employment or their return to work after a period out of work. If you or someone you know is struggling with Mental Health and getting back into employment, the WorkWell scheme gives you access to:

• a personal assessment to understand the best support for your needs
• tailored plans to address your physical and mental wellbeing
• access to local health, wellbeing, and community, support services and activities
• careers advice and guidance to help you progress in your current job or explore new opportunities
• help and support from a dedicated Work and Health Coach

To check your eligibility for the WorkWell scheme or to find out more information, email emailaddress or visit Work and skills support.

If you’re struggling with your mental health, Stockport offers a range of local services to help. For those feeling overwhelmed, Open Door Safe Haven, located at 72-74 Prince’s Street in the centre of Stockport, provides a supportive, safe environment for anyone who needs a place to talk. There are other hubs across Greater Manchester that offer a safe space and someone to talk to for more information visit Mental Health.

For 24/7 support, you can call 111 and select the mental health option or reach the Samaritans at 116 123 for confidential support.

If you would like to connect with a local group or organisation, you can explore the One Stockport Live Well Directory for a full listing of organisations and groups available in the area.