12 May 2026
Why we should all get involved in Mental Health Awareness Week and change lives for the better…
As It’s OK To Say marks Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the St Albans-based charity is calling on members of the public and organisations to play an active role in supporting mental wellbeing across the community.
With Mental Health Awareness Week taking place next week, the campaign comes at a crucial time to highlight the importance of open conversations, early support, and accessible care. The charity, known for providing essential mental health support and helping individuals begin their journey to wellbeing as quickly and efficiently as possible, offers a wide range of accessible resources, including therapeutic services, support groups, workshops and more right in the heart of St Albans, pop-ups in other locations and online.
At the heart of the campaign is a powerful visual display: a collection of individual profiles, each represented by a number. Every profile symbolises a real person and a story, a reminder that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstance.
Members of the public and organisations are invited to sponsor one of these profiles. The process is intentionally straightforward. Supporters simply choose a profile number from the image and email the charity to express their interest. From there, arrangements for sponsorship are made, and sponsors are kept updated throughout the campaign, allowing them to follow the journey and impact of their contribution.
Crucially, funds raised through each sponsorship go directly to the individual behind that chosen profile. This support can include one-to-one or family sessions with a qualified clinician, access to workshops, tailored resources, and ongoing support through peer groups and community networks. By linking donations directly to a person, the initiative ensures that help is both immediate and deeply personal.
Stacey Turner, founder and CEO of the charity said the initiative is designed to make giving more meaningful: “We want people to feel connected to the difference they’re making. Each profile represents a life, a voice, and a reminder that no one should face mental health struggles alone.”
The appeal also comes as demand for mental health support continues to grow. It’s OK To Say plays a vital role in bridging gaps in services, particularly at a community level where early intervention and connection can make a significant difference.
“The phone call when we call the recipient to share we’ve successfully achieved funding to support their journey is an emotional one and a favourite moment of mine,” added Stacey.
Organisations are being encouraged to get involved, not only through sponsorship but also by promoting the campaign within their networks. By taking part, organisations have an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to wellbeing and social responsibility, while helping to foster a more supportive environment for all.
As Mental Health Awareness Week approaches, the message is clear: small actions can have a big impact. Sponsoring a profile is more than just a donation, it’s a direct investment in someone’s wellbeing, a step towards reducing stigma, and a way of ensuring that more people feel heard, supported, and understood.
To take part, simply view the campaign image at the top of this story, choose your profile number, and email us at www.itsoktosay.org.ukto get started.
