Mental Health Awareness Week takes place from 11th–17th May 2026, and this year’s theme, set by the Mental Health Foundation is “Action.” The campaign encourages all of us to take meaningful action for our mental health. Action is personally to the individual and could mean asking for support, checking in on someone else, resting, setting boundaries, or reaching out to local services.
At Medway Parents & Carers Forum, we know that many parent carers juggle enormous emotional, physical and financial pressures while supporting children and young people with additional needs, especially when everything feels out of our control. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and no one should feel they have to struggle alone.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we want families across Medway, Gillingham, Chatham, Rainham, Rochester and Strood to know that support is available locally.
Why Mental Health Awareness Week Matters
Mental Health Awareness Week is one of the UK’s biggest mental health campaigns. The week aims to reduce stigma, encourage open conversations and help people prioritise their wellbeing.
This year’s theme, Action, reminds us that awareness alone is not enough. Small actions — talking to someone, accessing support services, taking time to rest, or helping another person feel heard – can make a real difference.
For many families in Medway, taking action may simply mean:
· Making a GP appointment
· Calling a helpline
· Asking for help
· Taking a break
· Connecting with other parent carers
· Accessing local mental health services
Mental Health Support Services in Medway and North Kent
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, these local and national services can help.
North Kent Mind
North Kent Mind provides mental health support, wellbeing services, crisis support and guidance for people across Medway and North Kent.
Phone: 01322 291380
Opening hours: 9am–5pm
Visit North Kent Mind’s website
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Samaritans
Samaritans offer confidential emotional support 24 hours a day for anyone experiencing distress, overwhelm or suicidal thoughts.
Phone: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
Visit Samaritans website
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NHS Mental Health Support
The NHS offers urgent mental health support, talking therapies, advice and crisis help.
Call 111 and select the mental health option for urgent support available 24 hours a day.
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Release the Pressure
A free and confidential mental health support service for people living in Kent and Medway.
Phone: 0800 107 0160
Available: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Visit Release the Pressure website
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Gillingham Safe Haven
A local drop-in mental health crisis support service offering immediate emotional support in a safe environment.
Location: The Sunlight Centre, Richmond Road, Gillingham, ME7 1LX
Opening hours: 6pm–11pm
Find out more via Mental Health Matters Safe Havens
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At Medway Parents & Carers Forum, we want families to know:
· You are not alone
· Asking for help is a strength
· Your wellbeing matters too
This Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s move beyond awareness and take action together, for ourselves, for each other and for our community.