Minutes from 18 May 2009

Epsom Mental Health Week Planning Meeting 18 May 2009

1Pre-publicity should be available in June/July, with final publicity available late August.    Pre-publicity sites include library, Ebbisham centre, newspapers, buses, station, surgeries, colleges etc.,
The design of the last brochure was very good, possible changes being the size of print and having it in a bright, non-missable colour.  Linking to other organisations for a house to house delivery was also considered.

2. Radio: Paul, Sheila, Nikki, Tony and Kay will explore possibilities of a radio programme about mental health in Epsom; a radio Jackie road show from the Ashley Centre; and ways in which emhw/mh issues could be publicised on air.

3.Street activities.  Nikki and Sheila will make connection with children’s entertainers.

4.Epsom’s Got Talent show: the idea will be pursued.

5.Poetry.  Possibility of producing book for sale of poetry written by people with a mental illness.  This may link into National Poetry Day on 6 October.

6.Gardening/Tai Chi  Ghodsie kindly volunteered to give talks/demonstrations on these subjects.

7.Talking books.  Kay explained the concept – carers, health professionals and mental health service users would be willing to talk about their experiences for 20-25 minutes to people who wanted to ‘borrow’ them. The meeting was enthusiastic about the idea and some members instantly volunteered.

8.Walks.  Don Illman hopes to be able to organise another event.

9.  Other ideas.  Photographic competition on the theme of well-being. 
Sheila will contact Boots, House of Fraser and The Body Shop re them holding pamper days during the week.
Sheila will also provide a list of care centres and contacts for the 1940’s events.

10.All famous people suggested have been contacted.  We wait to see what responses, if any….

11.Tony is working on the possibility of a computer programme for people to gain information and advice about early symptoms.

12.Sainsbury’s are inviting people to nominate a local charity of the year (closing date 26 May)  We would be entirely happy to be nominated…..!

CHANGE TO MEETING DATES: THE NEXT MEETING WILL NOW BE ON MONDAY 27 JULY 12NOON-2PM AT ST BARNABAS.