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...

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. Here at the Recovery College we have rolled out information, hints and tips throughout the week. Yesterday we focused on Myths vs Facts of suicide and today, we are looking at how to talk to someone you are worried about, and who may have suicidal thoughts. Here are 5 practical tips for starting a conversation...

For the second instalment leading up to World Suicide Prevention Day, we are looking at Myths Vs Facts surrounding suicide. Here's a clear myths vs. facts list about suicide, based on mental health research and guidance from key organisations.Myth 1 - Talking about suicide will put the idea in someone's headFact - Talking openly and ...

World Suicide Prevention Day – Wednesday, 10th September This week, the Recovery College for the Black Country will be shining a light on suicide prevention. Together, we can create hope, support, and understanding in our communities. The theme this year is: Change the Narrative. Throughout the week, and especially on Wednesday, we'll be focusing o...

August marks the beginning of Happiness Happens month. When the world feels uncertain, it's more important than ever to pause and savour the times when you feel good and happy. "For 25 years, we've been helping make the world a happier place — one smile, one celebration, and one happy moment at a time. Each August, we introduce a theme, but ou...

You may have seen this Advert whilst you are out and about or online, the LGBT Foundation supported by JCDecaux Community Channel, have launched a fantastic campaign - This is What a Woman Looks Like celebrating the beauty and complexity of what it means to be and look like a woman in 2025. Here's what they said in the campaign: "In ...

Learning Disability Week takes place in the third week of June every year. The theme for 2025 is "Do you see me?" which is all about people with a learning disability being seen, heard and valued. Being valued means that people are respected by others, and their views and feelings are listened to. Whether it's through better access t...

Men's Health Week continues! Today we are considering how to identify mental health challenges in men. This can broadly fall under the following categories: Behaviour, Emotional Changes, and Physical SymptomsBehaviour: Have you noticed any changes lately, within yourself or with your male friends? This could include: Withdrawing...

This week we are raising awareness for Loneliness and helping to reduce the stigma around this natural human emotion.  You can read about the origin of Loneliness Awareness Week here: https://www.marmaladetrust.org/law It's all about creating supportive communities by having open, honest conversations. There may be people in your network and c...

  Day 2 of Men's Health Week sees us embrace the Can Do Challenge!  This stands for:ConnectActiveNoticeDiscoverOfferConnect: Call an old friend over the phone or drop them a text. Connection is so important if you have lost your sense of belonging, or if you feel you don't know who to talk to. Pick up where you left off, a good frien...