Known as West Central London Mind
Since December 2024
Welcome
Welcome to our annual review for 2024! It’s been a very busy and exciting year for us with a merger, a variety of new services and one where we have seen significant growth.
Lots of our time this year has been dedicated to merging with Kensington & Chelsea Mind and forming a new organisation ‘West Central London Mind.’ This presents us with new opportunities as we now cover a fourth borough, and we are looking forward to learning more about our newly adopted area and providing support to our new communities. We’d also like to extend a special welcome to the staff and trustees that have transferred across to join our workforce.
Our services for children and young people have expanded this year and we are very proud to be able to offer support in schools, youth clubs and through our new early intervention mental health hub. Our SEND in Mind service in Wandsworth had its first birthday in September and the outcomes from the service are truly exceptional.
We were delighted to win the contract to run suicide bereavement services across NW London for another term. We know what a lifeline this service is for those who get support through it, and the addition of children and young people as beneficiaries of the service is so important to us.
And that’s not the only contract that has been renewed for us, we continue to work in hospital wards in Wandsworth through our inreach peer support scheme. This service supports people as they transition from hospital back into the community which can be very difficult. Being supported by staff who have had those experiences themselves is incredibly powerful. We feel immensely proud of our workforce who work so hard and have supported over 22,000 people this year – truly remarkable. It’s the dedication, commitment and skills that they bring that enables us to make a difference to the lives of so many, empowering them to live the life they choose with a more positive outlook for the future.
Brent, Wandsworth and Westminster
We’d like to give enormous thanks to all our funders, from Integrated Care Boards, to local councils through to corporate partners as well as the individuals who take on fundraising activities for us… you all make it possible for us to help people who need mental health support.
So what will 2025 bring for us as West Central London Mind?
We hope to see continued growth and further refinement of our systems and processes, paving the way for efficiency and evidencebased excellence. As we bed in as a new organisation, we will be rising to opportunities presented, which will enable us to reach and support even more people across our four boroughs and beyond!
The future looks bright and we would like to extend our thanks to every single individual who works or volunteers for us, and every organisation and individual who supports us, in whatever capacity that may be.
Wishing you all a mentally healthy 2025!
Sue Williamson Chair of Trustees
Simon Thompson Chief Executive Officer
About us
We’re a leading community-based organisation dedicated to providing outstanding mental health support and clinical interventions across London. Our experienced clinically-led teams are focused on directly addressing a range of mental health needs in our communities.
– We combine innovative solutions with decades of local community knowledge to empower people to live the life they choose.
– We are affiliated with National Mind but operate as an independent local charity and have done so in London for over five decades. As such, we’re responsible for running our own services, governance and raising our own funds to finance our services which are a lifeline to so many.
– We partner with the NHS and local authorities to deliver clinically driven frontline services with fantastic outcomes.
– Most of our services are provided at no cost, and aim to improve people’s lives through needs led mental health provision, across a spectrum from mild to severe conditions.
– Offering a diverse range of services allows us to support a broad spectrum of people, from young children through to older adults, all the while building expertise through local peer-led and co-produced programmes.
– All services undergo continuous monitoring and evaluation which ensures that they continually improve and evolve in line with the needs of our community.
Our values
Open
We’re inclusive, accessible, community focused and open to change.
Experienced
Our teams bring knowledge, expertise, and lived experience. They capture reliability, history, and professionalism – both individually and as a collective.
Unstoppable
Our mindset is active, change-focused, and forward-thinking, whilst also showing us as the change makers, campaigners, and activists that we are.
Together
We walk alongside the people we support. We’re here to fight for everybody’s mental health.
We supported over 22,000 people across 40 contracts
Over the past year, we have continued to grow, adapt, and deliver exceptional support to our community; however, the changing landscape brings fresh challenges and people need our help more than ever.
With mental health now being labelled as the UK’s top health concern alongside rising costs and delays in commissioning, we were under pressure to do more with fewer resources. Tighter regulations and higher expectations also often demand greater resources. We realise the importance of keeping up with the changing needs of the
people we support, making sure we are there for them, no matter what.
Despite this we have stayed resilient, meeting and exceeding service delivery outcomes. With over 40 contracts, we supported more than 22,000 people, thanks to the dedication of the BWW Mind team.
Looking ahead, we’ve laid the groundwork for future growth by strengthening governance structures, exploring partnerships, and investing in our team. With a strong financial outlook and a focus on staff well-being, we are ready to face the challenges of a dynamic mental health industry.
How we’re tackling these challenges
– Regular reviews of service quality, safeguarding, and compliance.
– Clear procedures for finance, HR, and operations.
– Investment in staff training, wellbeing, and flexible working options.
– More partnerships with corporate sponsors bringing income and higher levels of social value.
– Increased use of digital tools for efficiency and transparency.
– Focused marketing to improve awareness of who we are and what we do.
– Promoting staff resilience through mental health and support programmes.
Who we supported in 2024
Residents across Brent, Kensington & Chelsea, Wandsworth, Westminster and beyond:
Our services are grounded in transparency and clinical insight, empowering people to actively coproduce their care plans. We proudly celebrate and recognise the diversity within our communities.
NHS:
We consistently achieve excellent outcomes, relying on data-driven, evidence-based services. We address local healthcare challenges and relieve pressure on the NHS workforce to ensure the delivery of high quality care.
Local Authority:
Our passionate and skilled workforce, equipped with local knowledge, enable us to deliver solutions tailored to the unique needs of our communities.
Corporate Partners:
We guide and support companies in prioritising mental health prevention and enhancing overall employee wellbeing, leading to sustainable long-term savings.
Our People:
With a flat structure that values every voice plus a learning culture, we take pride in our market-leading staff retention rates.
Where our services are
Clinical Community
Children and Young People
Brent, Wandsworth and Westminster
Wandsworth
LONDON
Our Services
Adult Services
- Talking therapies
- Community services in Westminster and Wandsworth
- Housing management services
- Peer Support Services
- Floating Support
- RISE private counselling
- Suicide support services
- Supported self-help
Children and Young People Services
Training
- Whole school approach
- Mental Health Support Team (1:1 Support and Group support)
- Youth Clubs
- SEND Support
- Early Support Youth Hub
- A wide variety of bitesize wellbeing workshops
- Diversity & Inclusion
- Mental Health Awareness
- Mental Health First Aid
- Suicide Awareness Training
A snapshot of our services
Mind Skills Development
Our People
Our recent merger with Kensington & Chelsea Mind marks the start of a new journey to broaden our impact. The dedication of our workforce has enabled us to navigate change while continuing to deliver exceptional support to the community. Our team have embraced these changes while staying true to our values, ensuring that growth doesn’t just mean getting bigger—it means getting better whilst growing. This year, more than ever, we celebrate and thank our team—the driving force behind every success and the foundation of the future we are building. As we step into this next chapter as ‘West Central London Mind’, we look forward to fresh opportunities for growth and collaboration in the year ahead.
““This year has been a testament to the strength and adaptability of our team. Welcoming new colleagues from Kensington & Chelsea Mind has not only expanded our expertise but also deepened our shared commitment to empowering those we support. Through every challenge and opportunity, our people have proven that together, we are capable of achieving great things.”
Our Volunteers
Our volunteers are more than just supporters—they are changemakers. They drive our mission with their skills, passion, and lived experience. We are so grateful for the time, energy, and commitment they bring to our organisation.
– Some volunteers join us with lived experience offering unique insights and perspectives that are invaluable to our work.
– Others bring professional expertise, helping to strengthen and enhance our central operations.
– A number of them begin their journey with us as service users, accessing our community programmes to gain confidence, new skills, and a sense of purpose. They then use their lived experience to drive change, supporting others on similar paths. Together, our volunteers create a ripple effect of connection, empowerment, and transformation that reaches the communities we support.
£4.5m
Total income (2023/2024)
Brent, Wandsworth and Westminster Mind has continued transitioning from a reliance on supported housing services to expanding clinical provisions. The merger with Kensington and Chelsea Mind has strengthened our capacity to adapt to evolving mental health care needs and commissioning changes. While 2023/24 presented operational
and financial challenges, our focus remains on achieving sustainable growth through excellent service delivery and governance. Prioritising user experience and workforce well-being, we strive to be both an employer of choice and a leading provider of high-quality community-based services.
Services Income (Percentage of Total)
Children and Young People’s Services - (43%)
Housing Services - (19%)
Psychological Therapies - (18%)
Community Programmes - (17%)
Community Befriending Services - (3%)
Thank you to everyone who’s supported us on our journey so far. We couldn’t do it without you!
Mental Health Training
We are proud to offer a wide range of training courses to organisations across the corporate, public, and third sectors. Our available courses include:
Bitesize Wellbeing Workshops / Diversity & Inclusion Sessions / Mental Health Awareness (for staff & managers) / Mental Health First Aid Training / Suicide Awareness Training
In the UK, mental health issues like stress, anxiety, and depression account for approximately 49% of all work-related ill-health cases and 54% of working days lost, equating to 17.1 million lost days annually. This underscores the critical need for effective mental health management strategies in the workplace and equipping employees with vital tools to manage their own wellbeing.
What Makes Our Training Unique:
Every training package purchased directly contributes to our local support programmes, ensuring that your investment has a lasting community impact.
Mind Matters Programme in Schools:
This year, we launched our Mind Matters programme in secondary schools across Brent. Through psychoeducational workshops, we engaged students on critical topics like managing emotions, building healthy relationships both online and offline, and understanding panic attacks.
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“I’ve been feeling really stressed lately but after Miss’s session my mind has come to ease.”
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“So well presented, very good engagement with the group, very calm, well explained and educational workshop :) Really enjoy these workshops, looking forward to the next one.”
Support for the Construction & Financial Sector:
We delivered 42 mental health sessions to construction workers and bankers, addressing the unique challenges of this high-risk industry. These sessions are part of our ongoing effort to tackle mental health issues in sectors with a notably high rate of suicide. This year we are proud to have delivered training to over 4,500 people, equipping individuals and teams with the skills to foster healthier workplaces and communities. Email us: training@wclmind.org.uk
Adult Services
New services for older people
Physical health checks are essential for people with severe mental illness (SMI) because they can catch and manage issues like diabetes, heart disease, or weight gain, which are more common in this group. They also help tackle the physical effects of mental illness and its treatments, making sure people stay healthier overall.
We launched a new pilot project to help support people over the age of 65 with Serious Mental Illness to access physical health checks including cancer screenings and vaccinations. This is a temporary service operating between September 2024 and March 2025. We are working with a specific population of patients in North Kensington & Chelsea and Queens Park & Paddington who have been identified as vulnerable older adults.
Adult Psychological Therapies
Our Talking Therapies service in Westminster (formerly IAPT) continues to make a significant impact, providing essential support for those facing mild to moderate depression and anxiety. Delivered in partnership with CNWL NHS Trust and HealthShare, the service adheres fully to NICE guidelines and offers a flexible, blended approach. Whether face-to-face, by phone, or via video, we ensure support is accessible and tailored to individual needs.
“ “Fantastic. Quick referral time and engaged caring staff.”
Over the past year, the service has achieved remarkable outcomes:
– 9,255 appointments were booked, delivering treatment to 782 individuals, with a recovery rate of 52%—exceeding both NHS targets of 50% and the national average of 49.9%.
– Waiting time standards were consistently met, with 98% of service users waiting less than 6 weeks for their first appointment and 100% being seen within 18 weeks—well above national targets of 75% and 95%, respectively.
– The Did Not Attend (DNA) rate averaged at 5%, half the NHS target of 10%, showcasing exceptional engagement and accessibility.
““It only took a couple of sessions to help me with my problem. My therapist came to me with legitimate ways to help deal with my issue. I felt connected on a personal level and never felt rushed. I felt incredibly empowered by the experience and process I went through over the 8 sessions I attended. Everything was handled incredibly professionally and sensitively and I really felt that I was receiving the best support out there.”
Rise Private counselling & psychotherapy
At the end of last year, Brent, Wandsworth & Westminster Mind launched the RISE Private Counselling and Psychotherapy Service to make professional mental health support accessible to a wider audience. This service offers an almost immediate service of longerterm high-quality, affordable therapy, helping those with the need for longer-term therapy. RISE operates with low-cost options, ensuring affordability for people with varying income levels.
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“I should say that from my end, it was an astonishingly interesting session, and the first time in umpteen assessments from various organisations in over a decade that made me actually want to engage.”
Available to residents in Brent, Wandsworth, Westminster, and Kensington & Chelsea, the service offers a range of counselling and psychotherapy options tailored to individual needs.
Initial feedback has been positive, highlighting its potential to fill a critical gap in mental health provision. This initiative reflects our commitment to meeting the diverse mental health needs of our communities through innovative and inclusive solutions.
Email us: risecounselling@wclmind.org.uk
Supported self-help
Supported self-help offers a free, six-week guided programme designed to help individuals understand and manage their feelings with regular one-to-one support. This service is flexible and accessible, requiring no GP referral, and combines practical tools with compassionate guidance to address a range of emotional challenges. Delivered in partnership with National Mind, supported self-help is not a counselling service but incorporates counselling-based skills alongside Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) tools and other methods of support.
Outcomes
– 2074 sessions delivered to over 356 participants
– The wider service has impressive outcomes, with 84% of people reporting an improvement in feelings of anxiety and 85% reporting an improvement in feelings of depression.
““I received so much from being a befriender and I hope I have been able to give something back. I have known my clients for a very long time and it has been a very positive experience for me to see them flourish. It has had a very positive effect on my life.”
Peer Support Services
Befriending
Our Community Befriending service matches befrienders with people who find it hard to cope, manage day-to-day matters or to take an active part in community life. This service focuses on helping people develop self-management skills, confidence and self-esteem to move towards independence and life beyond services. Service users are encouraged to develop their interests, connect with peers and become more active in the wider community.
Our Befriending service supports people across a spectrum of mental health needs and is largely funded by service users’ personal budgets awarded by Westminster City Council. Otherwise, service users pay for themselves.
Key achievements:
– In the past year, a total of 6,277 hours were spent befriending
– 76% of clients reported better mental health and wellbeing
– 65% of clients increased their engagement within the community and/or had greater self-confidence
– 69% of clients were better able to maintain independent living skills
– 71% of clients increased their social engagement
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“Befriending means everything to me. It takes me out of the house. It gives me confidence when I have someone with me.”
Wandsworth Floating Support Services
This year, Floating Support Services demonstrated resilience and dedication, consistently delivering impactful outcomes despite operational adjustments. In April 2024, service capacity was reduced from 163 to 150 users, yet the team maintained 100% utilisation, operating at full capacity throughout the year.
Outcomes for the year:
- The service processed 100 referrals and supported a total of 210 individuals.
- 45 service users completed their support programmes and successfully transitioned to the next stage of their life journey, with 100% achieving positive outcomes.
- A total of 15,960 hours of tailored support was delivered.
“I am extremely thankful to my allocated Support Worker for the support I received, especially with appealing a DWP decision regarding my welfare benefit. The support was exceptional and very professional.”
Housing Management Services
Our Housing Management team focuses on delivering professional, safe, and supportive housing environments. Their proactive approach has ensured stability and satisfaction among tenants throughout the year.
Outcomes:
- We supported 40 tenants, with 35 properties actively let and occupied.
- No safeguarding concerns were raised, underscoring a secure living environment.
Service Impact:
The low number of incidents and concerns reported reflects the team’s commitment to tenant safety and proactive property management. The absence of safeguarding issues is a testament to the supportive environment provided. We are dedicated to addressing challenges and increasing tenant satisfaction. Initiatives focus on tenant engagement, proactive property management, and exploring new opportunities for lettings.
In-Reach Peer Support
Delivered in partnership with Oxleas NHS Trust, Mind in Croydon, and South East London Mind, our Peer Support Service bridges the gap between hospital discharge and independent living in the community. This unique approach harnesses the power of lived experience to support individuals in their recovery journey. Transitioning back into the community after time in a hospital ward can feel daunting. Our peer support workers, draw on their own experiences of mental health challenges, and provide emotional and practical support to help individuals adjust and thrive.
This year highlighted the unique strengths of our Peer Support Service, which continues to deliver outstanding outcomes for patients, carers, and unit staff. The service has received exceptional feedback, with many praising the compassionate and empowering support it provides.
“Our son’s recovery has been challenging for us and the peer support work has been such an asset. We can see the wonderful support and connection he has gained through the support he was provided.”
Together, the Wandsworth Floating Support and Housing Management Services illustrate BWW Mind’s unwavering commitment to improving housing stability and enhancing the quality of life for the individuals we support. 27
Suicide Support Services
Suicide Prevention
Our Suicide Prevention team, commissioned by the South West London Integrated Care Board provides awareness sessions to organisations supporting vulnerable adults, children, and young people across the six South West London boroughs. These include concise 1.5-hour awareness sessions, and in-depth 3-hour workshops designed to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence to have open, honest conversations about suicide, helping to break down stigma. Recognising that every organisation has unique needs, we tailor each presentation to ensure maximum relevance and impact. This year, we have prioritised the development of our Suicide Prevention Champion volunteer programme. 14 dedicated champions meet monthly to enhance their skills, build confidence, and provide peer support, creating a stronger community of advocates for suicide prevention.
40 suicide prevention sessions delivered from January – October 2024
““The session was incredibly informative and engaging, and I found it to be a valuable experience. The suicide prevention team were outstanding in their delivery. They provided clear, compassionate guidance, debunked common myths around suicide, and offered practical advice on how to support individuals who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts. I left the session feeling much more confident in how to approach conversations about suicide and support those in need. Thank you for organising such an important and impactful session—I truly appreciate the work you are doing to raise awareness and provide guidance on this crucial topic.”
495 attendees
““The service helped me in so many ways. I was listened to, supported with additional tools and advice and recommended additional reading material. I never felt alone. I am truly grateful for the service I received, I don’t know where I’d be without it.”
Suicide Bereavement and postvention
We are dedicated to providing compassionate, tailored support to individuals and families grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide. Understanding that those bereaved by suicide face a heighted risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts themselves, we collaborate closely with existing bereavement services to help support people navigate such complex grief. Our service operates across 14 boroughs in NW and SW London, offering a range of interventions, including one-to-one support, advocacy, and peer support groups.
- We secured funding to continue and expand the North West London service until April 2026.
- We launched new dedicated services for children and young people (CYP) and enhanced outreach programmes as part of the North West London expansion.
- Approximately 2,000 support sessions were delivered across North West and South West London, providing critical care to those in need.
- 80% of clients supported in 2024 were “very satisfied” with the support they received.
Community Wellbeing Programme
Our community programmes are almost entirely funded through donations, sponsorships, personal payments, and community fundraising.
In 2024, our Community Wellbeing Programme flourished, serving as a vital resource for individuals seeking connection, support, and growth. Over the past year, we registered 209 individuals. These numbers highlight not only the programme’s reach but also its effectiveness in fostering engagement and addressing mental health needs.
Attendance across most groups increased in comparison to last year, demonstrating the programme’s popularity within the local community and the success of our outreach and referral pathways. We remain dedicated to continuous improvement, underscored by use of the Mind Scale impact measurement tool, which enables us to capture participants’ progress.
Through the Community led Wellbeing Programme we are building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Is your organisation interested in sponsoring or contributing to one of our community programmes?
We are constantly seeking support to keep these programmes going; they benefit large numbers of people, reduce isolation, improve connectedness and help people to have a better quality of life.
If your company is interested in funding one of the community programmes or making a donation towards them, please contact fundraising@wclmind.org.uk
Introduction of our Community Forum
This year, we launched our first Community Engagement Forum, aimed to review our activities and facilities, gather honest feedback, and inspire fresh ideas for the future.
A diverse committee of 13 participants, representing 81% of our programmes and key NHS and social prescribing networks, brought invaluable insights through lived experience of mental health challenges and community initiatives.
New projects and Courses added to the programme
Introduction to Meditation Course
– This course took place at the beginning of 2024 and falls under our psychoeducation and life skills workshops. It was delivered by a student from Toronto University on a fully funded 6-week placement. The course covered:
- Meditative practices
- Awareness of breath, mind, and body
- Appreciation of life’s beauty
The forum ensures yearround feedback opportunities.
Representatives rated their experiences of BWW Mind’s Community Programmes as follows:
- 57% gave a 5 (“fairly good”)
- 14% gave a 6 (“very good”)
- 29% gave a 7 (“exceptional”)
Participants praised the range of programmes, creative spaces, and inspiring atmosphere, noting the confidence and purpose these activities bring. Their feedback is already shaping the evolution of our services, demonstrating the power of co-production and co-design.
- Creative outlets for psychological flow
- Journaling for clarity
With a strong demand from service users we are currently in discussion with Hope in the Community Centre about introducing a second, monthly iteration of the course.
Walk and Talk
Our Walk and Talk programme is delivered in partnership with Woodfield Road CMHT. The project is open to anyone registered in our community programme as well as individuals accessing Woodfield Road CMHT, serving as a gateway to our other programmes. For 2024, we secured funding from ‘Everyone Active’ to cover facilitation costs and ran a focus group alongside attendee and facilitator interviews, culminating in the co-authored paper: ‘Exploring experiences of a weekly walking group implemented by an NHS community mental health team and BWW Mind’. This has since been submitted for publication and is due to be featured in the 2025 ecotherapy issue of Context magazine, a bi-monthly publication from AFT – Association for Family Therapy and Systemic Practice, as
Combining the therapeutic benefits of nature and light exercise, this programme offers an opportunity to build meaningful relationships. Facilitated by an assistant psychologist and a peer support worker, activities take place in local parks, museums, and galleries, predominantly within Westminster, and include refreshments. Each walk is created by someone who would like to share an important memory in their life or a place they enjoy visiting. This programme empowers individuals to reconnect with their community while supporting their mental health recovery, improving social inclusion and a sense of belonging. Since joining the group participants reported:
- Feeling better physically
- Engaging with the community
- Improving from the project
“Hub staff first-class support - could not be better”
Other Community Programme Services Outcomes
Unfolding Minds –Collaborative Filmmaking Project
Funded by Bental Green Oak and run in partnership with Wondering Minds, we delivered a 14 week filmmaking course. The course offers a unique opportunity to delve into storytelling, camera techniques, audio recording, and editing, enabling each participant to craft a short film, encapsulating their mental health journey.
“It has helped me reflect on my past, allowing me to value and share the more challenging parts of my life with others … working with the facilitators has reinforced my belief that it is possible to accomplish difficult tasks. Their support and encouragement have shown me that what initially seems daunting can indeed be achieved with determination and team working.”
Creative Writing
In partnership with Write-London, February saw the launch of our weekly creative writing workshop. Run by a professional writer, participants learn about the craft of poetry and other forms of literature, learn poetic and writing techniques, create and share their own projects as well as contribute to an anthology. The sessions aim to provide everyone an opportunity to express and explore their creativity without constraint.
“It’s a great place to put your head down and be creative in an allocated time and place.”
Employment and Volunteer Support Workshops
This project operates in collaboration with Morgan Sindall, who provide a dedicated jobs coach to assist our clients in achieving their employment and volunteer objectives. Following the success of last year, which saw participants complete vocational training courses and secure both voluntary and paid work opportunities, the project has now entered its second iteration.
Green Minds
‘Green Minds’ is an eco-therapy initiative delivered in partnership with the Royal Parks and funded for the third year by our corporate partners Platform Associates. Its primary aim is to enhance mental health and wellbeing through regular activities like conservation, gardening, and mindfulness in green spaces. Participants experience not only the calming effects of nature but also develop practical skills, gain confidence, and create supportive social networks.
This year, 23 individuals actively participated in the project,
cultivating mutually supportive connections with each other and the natural world. Participants reported overall improvements to their mental and physical health and wellbeing, confidence, connectedness and belonging, with 5 individuals going on to volunteer placements at the London Zoo allotments.
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“It was something to achieve… it gave me confidence and a purpose.”
London Zoo Supported Volunteer Programme
In collaboration with the London Zoo, this project offers participants from our ecotherapy programmes the chance to engage in impactful volunteer work. Participants cultivate herbs, fruits, and vegetables in the zoo’s allotments, and all harvested produce is generously donated to local food banks and community centres,
contributing to the well-being of our broader community addition, 4 individuals have successfully moved through our ecotherapy programme to begin supported volunteering at London Zoo, with one volunteer moving on to secure paid employment at Paddington Community Garden thanks to another partner in the project British Land.
Fig-tree gardening project
The Fig Tree Gardening Group, a therapeutic gardening initiative, operates in partnership with Look Ahead and is generously funded by our corporate partners, the Howard De Walden Estate. As the project entered its third year in April 2024, we’re thrilled to report another successful year.
“Inspiring space. I enjoy the services and activities.”
Music In Mind
Music in Mind is a unique music production initiative designed to support individuals on their recovery journey. The programme provides a nurturing and empathetic environment where participants can explore their emotions and express themselves creatively through music production and appreciation, helping them pursue both their artistic and personal recovery goals.
Wandsworth Hub Service
At our hub on Tooting High Street, we support individuals diagnosed with moderate to high mental health needs on their journey to recovery. Our mission is to empower service users by providing tailored tools and opportunities that promote wellbeing, independence, and community connection. Our services are designed to meet diverse needs, offering a safe and welcoming environment where individuals can grow at their own pace.
Many of our service users take the skills and confidence gained through our programs and become volunteers within the service. This progression highlights the supportive and transformative environment we cultivate, where individuals are encouraged to take meaningful steps toward independence and self-fulfilment.
Key features include:
– One-to-One Support: Each person is paired with an allocated worker who helps them develop independence, manage their health, and set achievable personal goals.
– Therapeutic and Educational Groups: These sessions foster personal growth, build resilience, and enhance self-confidence.
– Skills-Based Workshops and Creative Activities: Opportunities to learn practical skills through courses like cooking, IT support, and creative writing, as well as engaging in arts and crafts or yarn craft.
– Recreational Clubs and Music: Activities such as the Wednesday Club and music sessions provide opportunities for relaxation, socialising, and self-expression.
– Day Trips: Organised outings encourage enjoyment, community connection, and a break from the daily routine.
Johns Story
John’s mental health journey began in 2002 with a diagnosis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and depression. However, it wasn’t until 2020 ago that he was formally diagnosed with psychosis, a condition that had been affecting him for years. John reflects on this delay, noting how difficult it was to gain insight into his condition until it was clearly identified.
Living with psychosis is a complex experience for John, characterised by episodic symptoms that include auditory hallucinations and delusions. These episodes can occur several times a week, often leaving him unaware of the experience until it has passed. Despite the challenges, John has learned to cope with his condition through a combination of medical treatments and personal strategies. He practices mindfulness, engages in physical activities like walking, and finds creative outlets in art and writing.
John’s treatment journey has not been without difficulty. While he has benefited from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and psychoanalysis, the strain on healthcare services has led to longer gaps between appointments, making it harder to access consistent support. Nevertheless, John has found solace in the support provided by our Wandsworth Hub support, where he participates in creative sessions and connects with others who understand his experiences.
A significant barrier John faces is the stigma surrounding his mental health condition. He often refrains from disclosing his diagnosis to others due to the fear of judgment and misunderstanding. This stigma also affects his interactions with healthcare providers, further isolating him. The importance of mental health charities like BWW Mind cannot be overstated, as they provide a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals like John can find acceptance and community.
Children and Young People Services
MHST
Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs) were introduced in schools across Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea as part of a national initiative focussing on Transforming Children and Young People’s Mental Health. Delivered in collaboration with NHS England and the Department for Education, our MHSTs support children and young people (CYP) aged 0–18 experiencing mild to moderate mental health challenges, offering evidence-based interventions in 80 schools with a focus on accessibility, inclusion, and diversity.
For infants (0–5 years), we work with families to address early challenges like tantrums and frustration, providing one-to-one support in homes, schools, and family hubs such as Queens Park Children’s Centre.
Primary school services focus on family-centred interventions, offering one-to-one sessions, parent support groups, and mental health assemblies.
Secondary school support includes tailored one-to-one sessions and workshops addressing issues like anxiety, low mood, and emotional dysregulation.
This year, we’ve achieved high uptake and completion rates for interventions, significant improvements in symptom scores, and positive feedback from CYP, parents, and schools. Our MHSTs continue to highlight the value of early intervention in fostering resilience and improving mental health outcomes.
Waiting times
- On average, people were seen within 9 days for a full assessment
- 95% of people had a full assessment within 28 days
Sessions delivered
- 5113 sessions across the service
- 730 people attended sessions
- Over 12000 attendees at workshops on more than 30 different topics
Changes
Last year we worked in 44 Westminster schools; this year we work in 80 schools across Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea. The number of people we see has grown exponentially (more than 3x) since the beginning of the service in 2020, showcasing that more children and young people, parents and staff are benefitting from psychoeducation and evidence-based support.
This year, a Mental Health Hub has also been developed, which offers 1:1 support and group workshops for people aged 11-25; this includes support outside of school hours, so we can reach even more young people.
Outcomes:
- We measure outcomes in every session to reflect on progress. This includes measuring symptoms of low mood and anxiety (adolescents), emotional and behavioural difficulties (parents), and goals (everyone).
- CYP report significant reduction in symptoms of low mood and anxiety by the end of the sessions.
- Parents report reductions in emotional and behavioural difficulties by the end of the sessions and a reduction in negative impact felt by the family as a whole.
- People made big steps toward achieving the goals they had set out at the beginning of the intervention.
- 97% of people felt listened to and that their views and worries were taken seriously.
- 100% agree that they received good help overall.
““My practitioner provided me with amazing support and guidance throughout the sessions, they provided with amazing care as we managed to get along and had that bond where I could comfortably express my feelings and thoughts.”
Early Support Hubs (Westminster Hub)
In 2024, we launched the Early Support Hub in Westminster, a government-backed (DHSC) initiative providing young people with a safe and supportive environment for timely and effective mental health support. Tailored to the diverse needs of children and young people, the hub offers evidence-based 1:1 sessions alongside creative activities like art and music therapy, helping participants build coping mechanisms and emotional resilience. Additionally, interactive group workshops focus on teaching resilience, fostering coping strategies, and strengthening social support networks.
Outcomes
- Over 370 children and young people have participated in workshops since the hub’s launch.
- 99% of referrals are seen within 28 days, ensuring timely intervention when it’s needed most.
Youth clubs
Research consistently shows that young people feel more comfortable discussing their mental health in familiar, relaxed environments such as youth clubs. We’ve embraced this insight to provide essential preventative and early intervention support across nine local youth clubs. These spaces encourage openness, allowing young people to address mental health challenges, build resilience, and receive timely support in a non-judgmental setting.
Impact:
- Through 1:1 and group sessions, the service reached 950 young people, empowering them to manage distress and access support in their communities.
- London’s Violence Reduction Unit examined the impact of Interpersonal Therapy in improving communication difficulties and resolving conflict in relationships within the clubs which we support. Young people reported improved communication and conflictresolution skills. The tailored intervention spanned 6 weeks, with all participants completing the therapy and achieving significant, positive outcomes.
Be Kind to your Mind
“Be Kind to Your Mind” delivers art therapy and psychoeducation to schools in the boroughs of Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster that do not have a Mental Health Support Team
Outcomes
- Workshops with the Educational Psychology Department have engaged 2,688 children and young people, equipping them with valuable knowledge and understanding of mental health topics.
- 77% of participants felt confident and well-informed about the topic after attending sessions, compared to 27% prior to the sessions.
- 96% of participants reported an increase in knowledge following the workshops.
- Delivered 233 art therapy sessions: 196 individual, and 37 groups. These sessions provided a transformative space for self-expression and healing, with participants experiencing increased confidence and improved relationships with peers and family members.
SEND (Special educational needs and disability)
Art Therapy
We deliver 1:1 and group art therapy for children and young people in specialist provision education. Art therapy supports children and young people with SEND by helping with their social, emotional and psychological development. Through customised interventions, our goal is to establish a supportive and nurturing environment where individuals can explore their creativity, express themselves and cultivate essential skills for personal growth. The therapeutic potential of art provides a different way to express thoughts and feelings when words can be difficult to find. By building self-esteem, selfexpression and resilience, art therapy contributes to the overall wellbeing and development of children and young people.
Outcomes this year:
- More than 170 1:1 sessions delivered.
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“Things have been smoother in recent weeks, Jack is managing to self-regulate more and is integrating into the class activities rather than keeping separate.”
- More than 30 group sessions delivered.
- 100% of young people reported reduced stress levels.
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“Ever since you have been helping me, it has made an improvement in my life. Thank you so much.”
SEND in Mind (Wandsworth)
The SEND in Mind service offers advice and information to empower and support parents/ carers and families of children with Special Educational Needs and/or disabilities (aged 0-19). The service offers 1:1 support and psychoeducational workshops, to help parents navigate challenges and access essential resources and benefits.
Outcomes
- The service has supported 365 parents/carers
- 418 individual sessions with parents
- 42 workshops have been attended by 265 parents
- 43 parental applications for benefits and grants were successful
- 25% of parents who attended workshops reported significant increases in confidence and knowledge of who to ask for help.
Fundraising £50,020
Total raised in 2024
(Including gift aid)
We would like to say a massive thank you to all our incredible supporters who have taken the time to organise fundraising initiatives this year on behalf of Brent, Wandsworth and Westminster Mind. In 2024, we have been building our fundraising processes from the ground up. Thanks to your generous support, we’ve been able to raise vital funds for our unfunded community programmes which are a lifeline for so many.
2024: Our Year of Inspiring Fundraisers
A heartfelt thank you to every individual and organisation who dedicated time, energy and resources to support our work this year. Here are some standout achievements that inspired us in 2024:
- Strabens Hall – This financial advisory firm united 18 teams for a charity quiz night, raising an impressive £5,100.
- OneTrack Club – Organised an event where 100 runners ran 1000 miles collectively around a running track, in memory of their fellow runner raising £3,223.
- Hanne & Co Solicitors LLD
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As their nominated Charity of the Year, Hanne & Co have gone above and beyond to host a series of creative events. From firm-wide quizzes and a treasure hunt to their annual Christmas auction, their fundraising efforts have raised an incredible £6,132 and counting to help our mental health services!
- Wandsworth Prep School –Selected as their Charity of the Year until 2025, they’ve already raised more than £600 through a number of fundraising activities, including our ‘Tell a Joke’ Campaign for Mental Health Awareness Week.
- Wandsworth Town BID: As the charity beneficiary for this year’s Wandsworth Town Christmas Festival, we raised £1,018 through festival face painting and a charity raffle to support our Wandsworth-based initiatives.
- Raisa’s Barber Shop: Organised the ‘Kick the Stigma’ five-aside football tournament, raising £800 and uniting Westminster businesses to support mental health.
- Criterion Theatre: In the heart of London’s West End, Criterion Theatre kindly selected to raise funds for us, through bucket collections during their brandnew show, Titanique, over the Christmas period and raised over £800 for us!
- Giving in memory: Through an online tribute page set up with MuchLoved, we received a touching donation of £6,336 in memory of a loved one.
Challenge Events
Total raised: £4,826.12
In 2024, we secured 14 places in challenge events: the Royal Parks Half Marathon, Hackney Half Marathon, Saucony London 10k, and Santa in the City fun run, raising a collective of £4,826.12! A special shout out to Mary, Molly, Denny, Jemma, Amelia, Lauren, Joanne, Natasha, Amelie, Nuria, and Natalia for taking on these challenges in support of us this year. For inspiration and to see how you could fundraise for us, please visit www.wclmind.org.uk/support-us/ fundraise/do-your-own-fundraising
Partnerships
At our local Mind, partnerships are fundamental to enable us to deliver impactful mental health services. We are privileged to collaborate with the NHS, local authorities, and a wide range of corporate sponsors to address mental health challenges at the earliest and most effective stages. To all our partners, we would like to extend a huge thank you for your support and commitment to making meaningful change in our local communities.
We can’t thank every one of our supporters in this publication, but please know that all our staff and service users are so grateful for your support. If you’d like to partner with us, nominate us as your “Charity of the Year”, provide pro bono expertise or carry out any other fundraising activity, please email fundraising@wclmind.org.uk
We would like to give a special thanks to the following partners:
- Playtech: Their £20,000 donation supports a number of our community services, making a tangible difference in people’s lives.
- Deecon Consulting: A firm based in Westminster have provided invaluable pro bono support this year. Their expertise has been crucial in assisting with the project management of our recent merger.
- Platform Associates: Proud sponsors of our Green Minds ecotherapy project for the third year running, their ongoing support allows us to help people’s mental health through connection with nature.
- British Land: Supporting our Paddington Community Garden Supported Employment Programme to empower individuals with skills and opportunities.
- Morgan Sindall: Offering pro bono expertise through weekly Employment and Volunteering Support Workshops. They hosted a wreath-making activity for our service users at Christmas and generously made a donation.
- Look Ahead: Providing garden space and sponsorship for our Fig Tree Gardening Club, a haven of growth and wellbeing.
- Bentall Green Oak: Generous, long-standing sponsors of our Collaborative Filmmaking course. This project empowers people to explore their mental health and wellbeing creatively through the art of filmmaking.
- Howard De Walden Estate: They made us the beneficiary of last year’s Christmas Light switch-on which fundraised £15,000 which went towards funding our Fig Tree Gardening Club.
