Tomorrow, over 500 radio stations across the UK will host a Mental Health Minute in honour of Mental Health Awareness week as part of an initiative created by Radiocentre and The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in support of mental health organisation, Shout.
During the minute long segment at 10.59am, a script written by poet and mental health activist Hussain Manawer will be voiced by celebrities including David Beckham, Dame Shirley Bassey and Joanna Lumley as well as royals Prince William and Kate Middleton.
Other celebrities involved include Anne Marie, Charles Dance, Jamie Oliver and footballer Jesse Lingard. The short message is meant to symbolise how just one conversation can be incredibly powerful for people suffering from mental illness and that even one minute can make a difference.
In the message, David Beckham will describe how important mutual understanding and hope are, in this time of reflection. The Duke of Cambridge will add how important it is to continue the conversation around mental health after the week awareness week ends while the Duchess of Cambridge notes the ways mental health binds us.
‘We are absolutely thrilled that Shout is being highlighted in this year’s Mental Health Minute,’ Victoria Hornby, CEO of Mental Health Innovations, the charity behind the Shout 85258 text messaging support service said in a press release. ‘It has been an incredibly tough year for so many people and it’s more important than ever that anyone who is feeling worried or overwhelmed knows where to turn, to reach out for help.
‘Our service is here 24/7 for people to have a free, confidential text conversation with one of our trained volunteers who will listen without judgement, help you feel calm and find a way forward. Just text SHOUT to 85258 at any time of day or night; we’re here for you.’
To listen to the message, tune into one of the many Bauer radio stations hosting the Mental Health Minute including Kiss, Absolute Radio, Magic and Hits Radio.
For more information about Shout 85258, visit Shout's website here****. Anyone, anywhere in the UK can text ‘Shout’ to 85258 for support whenever they need it.
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