Sellafield Ltd, a multinational nuclear decommissioning and nuclear waste management company, has recently announced an extension of funding for the West Cumbria Mental Health Partnership (WCMHP). The partnership, formed in 2021 as part of the Transforming West Cumbria initiative, aims to bring together mental health and wellbeing providers to address the increasing prevalence of mental health issues in the West Cumbria region.
The WCMHP, funded through Sellafield Ltd’s Social impact multiplied (SiX) programme and delivered by Cumbria Community Foundation, has been successful in providing accessible, community-based support services to prevent mental illness and improve emotional wellbeing in the region. Over the past three years, more than 20 charitable organizations have been funded, resulting in support for over 5,000 adults and 2,000 children and young people.
Eirini Etoimou, head of corporate sustainability & supply chain development for Sellafield Ltd, expressed the company’s commitment to promoting resilience and wellbeing in the community through their continued support of the WCMHP. She also acknowledged the important role played by Cumbria Community Foundation in delivering the SiX programme and driving innovative mental health initiatives in the region.
Tracey West, senior social impact manager at Sellafield Ltd, highlighted the success of the partnership, attributing it to the collaboration and support among the partners. She also noted that while 20 organizations have received funding, the partnership has engaged over 80 organizations, resulting in positive outcomes.
The WCMHP is led by Groundwork North East & Cumbria and overseen by a steering group comprising representatives from the public, health, and third sectors. Additionally, over 80 organizations regularly meet as part of the wider partnership to assess available services, refer individuals to appropriate support, identify gaps in provision, and address barriers to accessing support.
The partnership focuses on three core areas of activity: support for adults, support for children and young people, and maintenance of recovery through the Recovery College, led by Together We. Each partner brings unique expertise and services to the partnership, including group and individual therapy sessions, drop-in sessions, workshops, courses, and advice on issues such as debt and welfare benefits.
Of those supported in the first three years, 61% reported improved mental health or wellbeing, 58% reported increased self-esteem and confidence, and 58% saw a reduction in stress and anxiety.
Philippa Golightly, Project Manager for Groundwork North East & Cumbria, expressed gratitude for the continued funding, stating that it marks a significant milestone in their mission to provide essential mental health services to the community. Golightly also highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts with the support of Sellafield Ltd, Cumbria Community Foundation, and partner organizations in building a brighter and healthier future.
Annalee Holliday, Head of Grants Practice & Programmes at Cumbria Community Foundation, emphasized the critical role played by the WCMHP in providing support to thousands of individuals in need over the past three years. Holliday also acknowledged the power of collaboration among charities with shared goals in increasing impact and effectiveness, amplifying reach, and combining resources.
Individuals in need of mental health support can visit the WCMHP website at www.wcmhp.org.uk/. In case of a crisis, immediate support can be obtained by calling NHS 111.
One of the success stories of the WCMHP is Kelvyn James, an international mountain leader, qualified counsellor, and volunteer with the Samaritans. James founded Mental Health North West, a social enterprise that received £31,320 in funding through the adult partnership to deliver 120 guided walks over three years for people experiencing mental health issues. The walks, which are open to anyone in need, have helped individuals in various stages of mental illness, from those feeling suicidal to those having a bad day. Participants have reported that the walks provide them with an opportunity to talk and connect with others, making a significant difference in their lives.
