Open Mind Festival Debate Tuesday 28th April 2015
Apr, 27 2015
Preston’s Open Mind Festival has been a regular fixture within the schedule of either mental health sufferers, student nurses, qualified practioners, lecturers and other interested members of the public. This year it has the theme text ‘Let’s get talking’ :- ‘Mental health and well being in the workplace’ debate.
It will commence 28th April 2015 between 1pm till 3pm at the Preston City Council Chamber. Some of the highlights include :- an introduction by Father Timothy Lipscomb, Vicar of Preston, a talk from Brian Gumbley ( Open Mind Festival Director ) and a question time session lasting just under an hour.
The debate will have some defining moments I’m sure you’d agree. Here are 6 statements from some key people that, by the conclusion of the debate will be resolved and will help to find a pathway into work and well being for those suffering with enduring mental health conditions.
Stephen Daley ( Principle Leisure Manager for Preston City Council ) :- ‘Finding the balance between work and social’.
Andrew Meyer ( Preston City Council ) :- ‘ The signs to watch for along with when and how to intervene from an employment perspective’.
Mick Mckeown (Comensus ) :- ‘ Does the labour movement ‘get’ mental health? Leading to a discussion.
John Bamford ( Greater Manchester Hazards Centre, campaigner) :- ‘ The scale of the problem of work – related stress’.
John Halligan (Trade Unionist ) :- ‘Opportunities to support and help refocus activity’.
Lauren Oakland( Senior Manager , MIND ) :- ‘ Supporting employees with mental health conditions as equals’.
One of the main factors in people falling down in the workplace is due, in part to stress and anxiety and in some cases the work employer failing to recognise and appreciate that a person’s worry or confidence issues originate from their condition. This can have a knock on effect on that person. It could mean that that persons condition is so debilitating that the thought of work could overwhelm them and lead to mood symptoms such as low self-esteem and depression.
Brian Gumbley, director of Music and the Mind and Open Mind Festival sympathizes with this completely and has these words of comfort for anyone considering entering the workplace,
“On a personal level, I have experienced periods of poor mental health but would encourage anyone experiencing the same to find out what help is available and don’t wait - go and speak to someone.
If the Open Mind Festival can tackle the stigma that people affected by mental health issues can feel by encouraging people to talk about mental health and wellbeing, raising awareness of the help available then we may be able to improve people’s quality of life and reduce the number of lives ruined or lost. “.
Other elements to the debate include :- panel members key points and closing comments. The debate aims to conclude at 3pm.
For more information visit the facebook page :- facebook.com/musicandthemind UK
Twitter :- @musicmindtweets
Or dial 01772 522226.
On behalf of the CCGUK we look forward to seeing you at this event.
