Introducing Our New Video
When we experience difficulties with our mental health, the world can sometimes feel like a very daunting place. Just the thought of asking for support might make us feel anxious, and trying to find the right path forward can be exhausting. That is why we made this new animation: to let people across Somerset know that help and support are available.
The short video explains who we are and our unique approach to mental health support.
Guided by Real Lived Experience
At Open Mental Health, our alliance is guided by Experts by Experience. These are individuals who use their own experience of mental health services and their personal recovery journeys to influence our decision-making.
We have a dedicated co-production team to make sure that the work of our Experts by Experience runs smoothly and they feel supported. Listening to the voice of lived experience is one of our key principles, and we ensure it has a real impact throughout Open Mental Health. Recently, nine Experts by Experience contributed 1,755 hours of their time and knowledge across 19 different areas of our work, ensuring lived experience stays at the heart of what we do.
The Power of Working Together
Co-production shapes the results we see in our services, our communications, and wherever else it is needed. This new video is a direct result of true dedication from everyone involved, working side-by-side. By creating things together, we achieve outcomes that are relevant and meaningful.
Bringing the Video to Life
When making this animation, Experts by Experience were involved at every single step:
- An Expert by Experience works directly on our communications team.
- Two Experts by Experience voiced the audio for the animation.
- Experts by Experience approved the script, suggested important changes, and signed off on each stage of the animation process.
Support When You Need It
We are a group of local community organisations working together with Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, Somerset Integrated Care Board, and Somerset Council. This teamwork allows us to provide clinically informed community care that supports the whole person and strengthens Somerset’s entire mental health network. If you are experiencing difficulties with your mental health, we are here to help. We offer support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you can access the right support at the right time. Just call Mindline Somerset, day or night, on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692.
Take a few minutes to watch our new video and learn more about how we work together.