An event to raise awareness of mental health is to take place in South Park on Tuesday 25 August.
The Day in the Park event, which is part of the UK Youth Parliament campaign to help improve mental health awareness, will take place on the old bowling green, near the clock tower, in South Park from 1 – 4pm.
The aim of the event is to look at ways of combatting stress through positive activities. There will be circus skills and a Pilates class to join in; along with information and representatives from CAMHS, Heath Watch, Public Health, Young Carers, Police & Crime Commissioner, Money Works and Darlington Youth Partnership will be on hand to offer help, support and information.
Andy Scott, Darlington Borough Council’s Director of Public Health said: “A Day in the Park is a great opportunity to raise the awareness of mental health. It’s a sad fact that 1 in 3 people will go through some form of mental health issue at some time in their lives. It’s reassuring to know there are people and services that offer information, help and support if you ever need them. If you suffer or know any-one that does please pop along to the event.”
Danny Brown, Elected Youth MP for Darlington said: “The day in the park is all about creating a positive atmosphere whilst at the same time spreading the knowledge about different forms of mental health – let’s hope it doesn’t rain.”
Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Ron Hogg, who has included Mental Health as one of the key areas he is focussing on, in his Police and Crime Plan 2015-17 said: “This event is an excellent way to raise awareness of the issues that people with mental health problems face, regardless of their age or personal circumstance.
“As well as giving pople advice and support, this also helps to bring partners together to improve the services available to sufferers.”
For more information about the Youth Parliament campaign visit www.ukyouthparliament.org.uk/campaign/mental-health/