Rethink Mental Illness Manchester Group

Our next meeting is on this Wednesday 12th October, from 6 – 7:45pm at Manchester Carers Centre . As well as having a cup of tea and a catch up, we've got a local GP coming to talk with us about the future of commissioning for mental health services. GPs are due to take on the majority of commissioning of health and social care services in the near future, so this is a good opportunity to understand how the new system might work. Find out more about what Rethink Mental Illness wants from GP commissioning here . If you are travelling by public transport or by foot, a ‘walking bus’ will leave from the taxi rank at Manchester Piccadilly station at 5:30pm. Please call Mary Patel on 07816 754 032 to let us know you will be coming, so we know to wait for you. If you are travelling by car then free parking is available on Pollard Street after 6pm. It's World Mental Health Day today. Wishing you all the best and hoping that it's as happy as can be.

We are very sad to announce that our friend and Group Chair, Ellen Foran, passed away at the end of September. Ellen was a tireless campaigner for mental health. Despite ill health and significant caring responsibilities, she always found the time and energy to shape and support local campaigns. She was admired by the group for her strong sense of integrity and courage when dealing with situations that she felt need to be changed, and in taking a stand against practices that she feels to be unjust. All those who knew her will remember that she was not one to give up easily! As well as her huge efforts in campaigning locally, Ellen was also very supportive of individuals in our group. Despite her own personal situation she was always happy to talk and to offer a friendly ear and emotional support. We have very lucky to have known Ellen and all her energy and enthusiasm. She will be missed very much and our thoughts go out to her family and friends at this sad time.