Community is something you can help shape

Ideas for everyday support

The 2025 community theme invites us to look beyond attendance and ask whether people have a real place and a voice in the groups they join.

There is a difference between being invited into a room and feeling that you have a place there. A person may attend an activity every week but still feel that the decisions, conversations and relationships belong to other people.

In 2025, the Mental Health Foundation made community the focus of Mental Health Awareness Week. Our reflection explores what community participation can look like when it starts with the person and leaves room for their contribution.

Begin with an interest, rather than an available slot

Ask what the person would enjoy being part of. The answer might involve an interest, a local place, a faith community or a relationship they want to maintain. An activity should be considered because it could fit that interest, rather than because there is a gap in the timetable.

The Foundation’s community resources discuss the value of safe, supportive connections. Whether a particular group offers that experience needs to be explored with the individual. A busy room is not automatically a welcoming one.

Make the introduction more understandable

Before a first visit, find out what the person wants to know. Who will be there? What happens on arrival? Is there a cost? Can they take a break? Small pieces of information can make an unfamiliar place easier to approach.

Discuss whether they want a familiar person alongside them, and what that person’s role should be. Support may help with the first introduction and then step back when that is agreed and appropriate. Avoid assuming that one level of assistance will suit every visit.

Look for a meaningful contribution

Community relationships can feel different when a person helps choose a topic, offers a skill or takes part in an ordinary shared responsibility. Ask what they would like to contribute, rather than assigning them a role because it looks inclusive.

Contribution does not have to be public or energetic. Listening, helping prepare something or sharing an interest can all be meaningful. The person should be able to choose whether a role feels comfortable and whether they want to change it.

Notice whose voice is heard

A group may offer several ways to participate: conversation, written suggestions or individual feedback. Consider whether the person’s preferred communication approach is welcome and whether any practical barrier needs addressing.

When something feels uncomfortable, help the person describe it and find an appropriate contact route. Belonging should not depend on accepting an experience they find distressing simply because the activity is described as beneficial.

Questions after a few visits

Do you look forward to going?
Is there somebody you feel comfortable talking to?
Do you have a say in what you take part in?
What would help you feel more at home in the group?

The reflection from 2025 is to pay attention to the quality of participation. Community becomes more meaningful when a person can recognise their interests, relationships and voice within it.