Sellafield Ltd has announced the extension of funding to the West Cumbria Mental Health Partnership (WCMHP), a collaboration of mental health and wellbeing providers working together to address the growing rise of mental health issues in West Cumbria.
Established in 2021 as part of Transforming West Cumbria, the WCMHP is funded through Sellafield Ltd’s Social Impact Multiplied (SiX) programme and delivered by Cumbria Community Foundation. Over the past three years, more than 20 charitable organizations have received funding to provide accessible, community-based support services to prevent mental illness and improve emotional wellbeing in the region. This has resulted in support for over 5,000 adults and 2,000 children and young people.
Eirini Etoimou, head of corporate sustainability & supply chain development for Sellafield Ltd, stated that the decision to extend funding for the WCMHP demonstrates their commitment to promoting resilience and wellbeing in the community. “With the support of Sellafield’s Social Impact Multiplied programme, and the dedication of Cumbria Community Foundation, we are paving the way for innovative mental health initiatives that will uplift lives and strengthen the fabric of West Cumbria.”
The success of the partnership is attributed to the partners working together, reducing duplication and supporting each other when needed. Although 20 organizations have received funding, over 80 organizations are involved in the partnership, contributing to positive outcomes.
The programme is led by Groundwork North East & Cumbria and overseen by a steering group of public, health, and third sector representatives. In addition, over 80 organizations meet regularly as part of the wider partnership to understand the available services, refer individuals to these services, identify gaps in provision, and address barriers to accessing support.
The WCMHP has three core activity areas: support for adults, support for children and young people, and maintenance of recovery through the Recovery College, led by Together We. Each partner brings unique expertise and services to the partnership, including age-appropriate group and individual therapy sessions, drop-in sessions, workshops, courses, and advice on issues such as debt and welfare benefits.
Of those supported in the first three years, 61% reported improved mental health or wellbeing, 58% reported increased self-esteem and confidence, and 58% saw a reduction in stress and anxiety.
Philippa Golightly, Project Manager for Groundwork North East & Cumbria, expressed her gratitude for the continued funding, stating that it marks a significant milestone in their journey to provide essential mental health services to the community. “This commitment empowers us to keep making a difference and builds on the success of the last three years, offering hope, support, and care to those who need it most. With the vital funding from Sellafield and the involvement of Cumbria Community Foundation and our partner organizations, we are building a brighter, healthier future.”
Annalee Holliday, Head of Grants Practice & Programs at Cumbria Community Foundation, highlighted the strain on NHS mental health services in West Cumbria and the critical support provided by the WCMHP over the past three years. “By working collaboratively, charities with shared aims can increase their impact and effectiveness, amplify their reach, and combine resources. It is fantastic news that this work will continue to be funded, and we are delighted to play a part in delivering this vital programme.”
Individuals in need of mental health support can visit www.wcmhp.org.uk/, and those in crisis can call NHS 111.
Kelvyn James, an international mountain leader, qualified counsellor, and volunteer with the Samaritans, founded the social enterprise Mental Health North West. The partnership’s adult partnership provided £31,320 in funding to deliver 120 guided walks over three years for people experiencing mental health issues. Participants are not required to have a formal diagnosis and can join the walks if they feel it would help them. Kelvyn shared the positive impact of the walks, stating, “We have one chap who says the walks are the only things in his life that he looks forward to. We have a lady who says it’s the only time that she speaks to other people.”
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