An event to tackle the stigma that still surrounds mental health issues will be held in Barrow later this month.
Beyond the Label: Severe Mental Illness (SMI) will take place at The Bridge on Portland Walk, on Saturday May 30 from 10am to 2pm.
The free event is open to all and aims to create honest conversations around mental health while connecting people with local support and services.
Commissioned by Spring North, it aims to bring together local organisations, professionals and people with lived experience.
Organisers hope the event will help challenge misconceptions surrounding severe mental illness and demonstrate that people can live fulfilling, creative and meaningful lives beyond diagnosis.
People will be able to speak to representatives from local support organisations and community groups, take part in interactive activities and wellbeing conversations.
Free Gelli printing workshops will be led by artist Jess Levine, while visitors can also experience an immersive audio activity exploring what it feels like to hear voices.
NHS community nurses will also be offering blood pressure checks and informal health conversations.
The event will feature guest speakers and a live performance, including a talk by Jess Levine on bipolar disorder and creativity and a live music performance by Barrow-born singer Jon Byrne exploring the connection between music and mental health.
Martin Hartley-Smith, CEO of Spring North, said: “Beyond the Label is about encouraging understanding, reducing stigma and helping people feel more confident accessing support.
“Severe mental illness can still be heavily misunderstood, and events like this create important opportunities for open conversation, education and connection within the community.”
Organisations involved in the day include Mind in Furness, IPS, Warrior Down, Women’s Community Matters, Artworks Art4All, SAFA, Andy’s Man Club and Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, with resources from Bipolar UK also available.
