Finding Light in Crisis: Peter Bedford Housing Association Marks World Mental Health Day 2025
On Friday 10th of October, Peter Bedford hosted a timely and impactful event for World Mental Health Day 2025, focusing on the critical theme: “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.” The gathering brought together staff, tenants and members of the community to confront the urgent challenges facing mental health support across London and to share practical strategies for self-care.
The event, underscored the alarming statistics confirmed by The Big Mental Health Report 2024: with one in four people experiencing a mental health problem yearly, the need for robust crisis intervention is paramount. Furthermore, the stark figure of over 2 million people on NHS mental health waiting lists in England provided a sobering context for the day’s discussions.
Screening, Discussion, and Dialogue
A central component of the afternoon was the screening of the powerful documentary, Ambulance – Crisis on the Streets. This provided a raw and unflinching look at the severe pressures on emergency services and the devastating reality of mental health crises unfolding daily on London’s streets.
Following the screening, participants engaged in a crucial discussion about the challenges facing mental health services across London.
Conversations explored what services are currently available, the gaping need for resources, and the practical steps that individuals and communities can take to support one another during times of crisis and emergency. The candid dialogue allowed attendees to share insights and frustrations, fostering a sense of shared commitment to advocacy and change.
A Moment of Mindfulness from a Tiny Island
The intense discussions were beautifully balanced by a shared moment of peace and reflection. Attendees enjoyed a light lunch of pizza, salad, and fresh fruit before participating in a special online mindfulness session.
The session was delivered by Peter Bedford tenant, Diana Luck, who joined the event virtually from a truly unique location: the tiny, tranquil Scotland Island. Diana cast a calming, picturesque view of her secluded setting, guiding participants through an exercise that demonstrated the powerful ability of mindfulness to ground and stabilise us, even amidst the most difficult circumstances. This segment highlighted the importance of simple, accessible strategies in supporting mental well-being.
Sustaining Support and Self-Affirmation
As the afternoon concluded, the focus shifted from shared learning to personal empowerment. Every participant left with a tangible reminder of the day’s themes and a commitment to self-care. Take-away goodies included keyrings, wrist bands, and badges to spread
awareness, along with crucial self-affirmation cards designed to reinforce positive thinking and self-compassion. The event served not just as a day of discussion, but as a practical exercise in community building and resource sharing, ensuring everyone who attended left with both new information and a renewed sense of support.
Peter Bedford Housing Association remains dedicated to fostering an environment where mental health is openly discussed, and access to support is prioritised, moving forward with the hope that shared understanding can lead to tangible improvements in London’s crisis care landscape.