Mental Health Awareness Week 2024 will take place from 13 to 19 May. Being active is important for our mental health, but many of us struggle to fit exercise into our daily life for different reasons. Bracknell Forest Council is supporting the Mental Health Foundation’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Week by helping residents to find moments for movement in their daily routine.
Bracknell Forest Community Network, along with other Happiness Hub partners and local organisations, have arranged activities for residents throughout the week:
Monday 13 May
- 9:30am to 10:30am – Tai chi at Birch Hill Community Centre
- midday to 2pm – bluebell walk at Jennett’s Park, Big Wood and Tarman’s Copse (meet in Peacocks Farm car park at 11:50am)
Tuesday 14 May
- 11am to 1pm – Binfield Happiness Hub drop-in session with Everyone Health at Foxes Den Café, Binfield
- 1pm – Walks for Wellbeing at Pope’s Meadow and Piglittle Field (meet at Foxes Den Café, Binfield)
Wednesday 15 May
- 10am to midday – Green and Active Heroes ecological survey at Buckler’s Forest, Crowthorne (meet in Buckler’s Park main car park at 9:50am)
- 1pm to 2pm – Sport in Mind badminton and tennis at Bracknell Leisure Centre
Thursday 16 May
- 2pm to 3pm – Sport in Mind wellbeing walk at South Hill Park (meet in front of the Arts Centre in the courtyard)
- 1pm to 2:30pm – Community Café at Bracknell Leisure Centre
Friday 17 May
- 11am to midday – strength and balance class at Crown Wood Community Centre
- 1pm to 5pm – movement for mental health showcase at Princess Square, Bracknell. A showcase of exercise and wellbeing groups within the Bracknell Forest Community. Join for taster sessions throughout the afternoon and meet some wonderful organisations with the Happiness Hub.
Cllr Megan Wright, Executive Member for Adult Services, Health, and Housing, said:
“Mental Health Awareness Week is the perfect opportunity to start prioritising your mental health. I encourage all residents to join in with some of these events.
“Exercise can have a positive effect on both your physical and mental health. These groups and activities have an added benefit – they are also great ways to meet others in your local area. Find something you enjoy, or drop into the taster showcase on Friday, 17 May if you aren’t sure. There is no need to book for any of the activities. Just show up and join in!”
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, you can get advice and links to support on the council’s mental health and wellbeing web pages.