Kate’s Story: A way with words

Coming to the end of my Master’s degree in Multimedia Journalism, I really wanted some hands-on industry experience in the marketing realm, so when I saw the role of marketing volunteer at Manchester Mind being advertised by my university, I applied immediately.

After losing my friend Honor to suicide at the end of 2022, I grew very close to the work of national Mind and local Minds throughout the country. Before Honor had passed away, she had dedicated herself to raising money for various mental health charities, with her last fundraiser raising over four thousand pounds for national Mind.

Honor spoke so candidly and openly about her mental health struggles. In her fundraising story she wrote: “I want to be open about my journey in order to help others know they’re not alone and where to look for support – something that Mind is striving to do”.

It almost felt cosmic when I saw the volunteer role advertised, and every day that I work for Manchester Mind feels incredibly purposeful.

Being able to share people’s stories about their own mental health, or about those that they have supported, helps to reduce the stigma surrounding it. No one should feel unable to speak about their mental health because it truly touches every aspect of your life.

In my role as marketing volunteer, my tasks include drafting social media and website content, which helps to spread to word about Manchester Mind’s incredible services. The possibility of someone seeing a post and realising that there is support out there makes me feel extremely content.

Manchester Mind are guided by their values and strive to do their very best in finding the right support for an individual, and in doing so are supporting over 11,000 people every year. They understand the importance of meeting people where they’re at because, for many, the fear of asking for help can be incredibly daunting.

If anyone is feeling stuck, I encourage you to seek out a volunteer role with Manchester Mind. In helping others you can really help to find a purpose for your own life.