The Lunar New Year, which coincides with the first new moon of the lunar calenda This year marks the Year of the Fire Horse. In the Chinese zodiac, the horse is known for its vitality and confidence - traits which may be fuelled further by the fire element Lunar New Year is an annual celebration which coincides with the first new moon of the l...

Yesterday was the nation's biggest mental health conversation.. Time to Talk Day! At The Recovery College we held two sessions, one for our staff team and one for our Recovery College students. Both sessions gave an opportunity for people to catch up about their week, check in emotionally and connect.  In our student drop in we played a fun co...

Time to Talk Day is the nation's biggest mental health conversation. A chance to listen, share, and talk about what really matters. Start a conversation today and on Thursday! You're not only helping yourself and the people around you in that initial conversation but you're also helping to break down barriers so other people feel more comforta...

As the year 2025 draws to a close it is a great time to reflect on the year whilst looking to the future and creating new goals to help us move forwards. Recovery College Principal Kerry shared a message with all students at our end of term celebration, she said "2025 has seen amazing growth in the Recovery College with inc...

 We're sharing this event and initiative in support of Sandwell Council and Black Country Women's Aid to stand against violence towards women and girls. As part of the Sandwell Stands campaign, Sandwell Council are hosting community events in each of Sandwell's six towns during 16 Days of Action - you're welcome to attend&n...

Did you know? 8 out of 10 British men would find it helpful if someone asked if they were having a difficult time. But less than half of that say they've actually ever been asked. Follow Sir Mo's advice and change men's health for the better. In this YouTube link get inside the mind of Sir Mo Farah and see how he'd tackle the Movember Move&nbs...

At 11 o'clock on 11 November, we pay tribute to all those who have died in conflict, to honour all who have served — past and present.  They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them. The RC Team -...

Movember: Growing Awareness, Sparking Conversations This November, The Recovery College for the Black Country is joining the global Movember movement — a month dedicated to raising awareness around men's health, in particular mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. Movember is more than just an excuse to grow a mo...

It's Black History Month. This year, the theme highlights the profound contributions made by Black people be they leaders, activists, or pioneers who have shaped history, while also looking towards a future of continued empowerment, unity, and growth.  On Black History Month website you can find interviews with public figures across the arts, ...

Happy Diwali! Diwali also known as Deepavali and the Festival of Light is a Hindu festival celebrated over five days, It symbolises the victory of Light over Darkness. The word Diwali means "row of lights" in an Ancient language of India, called Sanskrit. Traditionally, small oil lamps (Diya's) are lit and placed in the windows. The festival b...

As we continue writing about Black History Month we focus on theme of Standing firm in Power and Pride.  This month we honour trailblazers like John Edmonstone, Dido Elizabeth Belle, Fanny Eaton, and George Bridgetower — figures whose legacies shaped our culture, challenged prejudice, and inspired generations.  George Bridgetowe...

Black History is all our history, it is an integral part of the UK's history and culture and it feeds into the present day. October acts as a dedicated month for us to reflect, celebrate the experiences of Black African and Caribbean communities but we must continue to lift the voices and experiences of Black communities all year rou...

Today is World Mental Health Day and it has never been more important to discuss mental health - it doesn't take a day off!Throughout the week we have been discussing - Myths vs Facts around mental health, Awareness, Community and Sharing Stories, Resources and Support. Please take time to have a read through and pick up some of our helpful pointer...

It's the third day of our World Mental Health Day campaign, ahead of Friday. Today we are looking at the importance of community, sharing stories and how this is a key part of maintaining positive mental health.  Being part of a community can make life feel more meaningful and enjoyable, help us feel happier and safer, and improve our mental h...

This month there are many events to celebrate and reflect on Black History Month.  "The Black History Month Conference 2025 will be one of the major highlights of this year's programme in the North West. Taking place on Tuesday 21 October at the historic Martin Luther King House in Manchester, this one-day gathering invites communities, p...

For the second instalment of our World Mental Health Day campaign we are considering Myths Vs Facts around mental health.  Myth 1: You only have to take care of your mental health if you have a mental health condition.  Fact: This isn't true! Everyone can benefit from actively supporting their mental and physical well-being...

This week, the Recovery College for the Black Country will be running a mini campaign for World Mental Health Day, which is this Friday, 10th October. The theme this year is: Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and EmergenciesSet by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), the theme highlights the importance of ensuri...

October marks the beginning of Black History Month. The theme for Black History Month UK 2025 is "Standing Firm in Power and Pride," a powerful tribute to the resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to progress that defines the Black community across the globe. This year, the theme highlights the profound contributions made by Black pe...

 It's the final day of our World Suicide Prevention campaign. To recap, we have covered the following subjects:Myths Vs FactsHow to talk to someone who is strugglingSigns of Suicide Risk and how to respondPlease refer back to our earlier blogs for more info on each of these topics.Today we are looking at the helplines and support services that...

For today's World Suicide Prevention Day post we are looking at - What are the warning signs that someone may be at risk of suicide?These can include: Behavioural Signs Searching for ways to end their life (online, with means, etc.) Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed Giving away prized possessions or getting affa...