Friendly Places

Managed by FaithAction, Friendly Places aims to helps faith groups to recognise that they have the capacity to provide places of support and acceptance for those struggling with mental health issues.

Mental health problems are common and will affect one in four people in the UK during their lifetime. Faith groups and faith-based organisations have the capacity to provide places of support and acceptance for those struggling with mental health problems.

The Friendly Places webpage at www.faithaction.net/areas-of-work/friendly-places includes articles, tips, guidance and other resources to help faith groups make practical and positive steps towards becoming more mental health friendly.

Friendly Places has also developed a pledge that faith groups can sign up to that highlights the action they can take to make their place of worship more welcoming, understanding and supportive of those who are troubled with their mental health. The pledge is about:

• Recognising the small, intentional things that make a big difference to those struggling with mental health who are a part of the community;
• Recognising that those suffering with their mental health should not be placed on the margins of the community;
• Recognising the role that faith groups already play in providing welcome and support; and
• Encouraging further practical steps to provide support and tackle mental health stigma and discrimination.

To sign the pledge visit www.faithaction.net/areas-of-work/friendly-places/pledge.