Shawmind Updates

Prioritising Student Mental Health: Shawmind’s Support

In the whirlwind of university life, amidst lectures, assignments, and social engagements, it’s easy to overlook one crucial aspect: mental health. Yet, the pressures and stresses of academic life can take a toll on students’ well-being. That’s why on this Student Mental Health Day, we’re shining a light on the importance of prioritising mental health and introducing a valuable resource: ShawMind’s Resilience training.

Understanding the Struggles

University life presents a unique set of challenges. For many students, it’s their first taste of independence, coupled with the demands of academic rigor and the complexities of social dynamics. The pressure to excel academically while also maintaining a vibrant social life can sometimes feel overwhelming. Amidst this juggling act, mental health often gets side-lined – LEARN MORE

Recognising the Need for Support

At ShawMind, we recognise the need for comprehensive support systems tailored to the specific challenges faced by students. We believe in equipping students with the tools they need to thrive, both academically and personally. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our resilience training program designed to support students in building the skills necessary to navigate the ups and downs of university life with confidence and resilience.

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and thrive in the face of adversity. It’s a skill that can be learned and strengthened over time, and our resilience training program is designed to do just that. LEARN MORE

Our program covers a range of topics, including stress management, coping strategies, goal setting, and self-care. Through interactive workshops, online courses, and peer mentoring opportunities, students will learn practical techniques for managing stress, building resilience, and enhancing their overall well-being.

What sets ShawMind’s resilience training apart is our holistic approach to mental health

We understand that mental well-being is influenced by a variety of factors, including lifestyle habits, social support, and personal values. That’s why our program addresses the mind-body connection, incorporating mindfulness practices, exercise, nutrition, and other holistic approaches to mental health into our curriculum.

In addition to resilience training, ShawMind offers ongoing support and resources for students struggling with mental health challenges. Our website features a wealth of information on mental health topics, self-help tools, and links to additional support services.

On this University Mental Health Day, let’s come together as a community to prioritize mental well-being and support one another on our journey toward resilience and recovery. Whether you’re a student struggling with stress and anxiety or a concerned friend or family member, ShawMind is here to help.

Join us in making a difference. Together, we can build a brighter, healthier future for students everywhere.

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Elevate Your Wellbeing: Embracing Mental Health Awareness

In the whirlwind of life, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, often neglecting our mental health in the process. Yet, amidst the chaos, it’s crucial to remember that our mental wellbeing is just as important as our physical health. That’s why today, we’re diving headfirst into the realm of mental health awareness, exploring how we can empower ourselves and others to navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.

Why Mental Health Matters

Life’s journey is a beautiful tapestry woven with experiences both joyous and challenging. However, it’s essential to recognize that everyone faces struggles at some point in their lives, and it’s okay to seek support when needed. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and behave. By prioritizing mental health awareness, we can break down stigma, foster understanding, and create a more compassionate world.

Empowering Through Knowledge

At ShawMind, we believe that knowledge is power. That’s why we offer a range of Mental Health Training Courses designed to equip individuals with the tools and insights needed to navigate life’s ups and downs effectively. Whether you’re seeking to enhance your own self-care practices or support others in their mental health journeys, our courses provide valuable resources and strategies to promote wellbeing and resilience.

What You’ll Gain

Enrolling in our Mental Health Training Courses opens the door to a wealth of benefits:

1. Essential Tools for Self-Care: Learn practical techniques to manage stress, cultivate resilience, and prioritise self-care in your daily life.

2. Insights into Mental Health: Gain a deeper understanding of mental health conditions, their impact, and how to provide effective support to those in need.

3. Community Support: Connect with like-minded individuals committed to promoting mental health awareness and fostering a supportive, empathetic community.

March Special Offer

As an added incentive to kickstart your mental health journey, we’re thrilled to announce our March Special Offer! Enroll in a course this month, and you could be in with a chance to WIN tickets to see the Sheffield Steelers or Sheffield Sharks in action. Imagine enjoying an exhilarating game while taking proactive steps towards enhancing your mental wellbeing – it’s a win-win!

Join the Movement

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Spread the love by sharing this post with your friends, family, and colleagues, and let’s embark on this journey towards greater mental health awareness, understanding, and support.

At ShawMind, we’re committed to empowering individuals, transforming communities, and changing lives. Join us in elevating your wellbeing and embracing mental health awareness today – https://shawmind.thinkific.com/

Remember, your mental health matters. Together, let’s shine a light on the importance of self-care, support, and compassion.

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Remembering Heroes: 80th Anniversary of the Mi Amigo in Sheffield’s Endcliffe Park

As the crisp winter sun shone through the bare branches in Sheffield’s Endcliffe Park on Sunday, 25th February, a crowd had gathered to remember the sacrifices made during the darker days of World War II. The local community, local dignitaries, representatives from the Royal Air Force, and the United States Armed Services gathered together to commemorate the 80th anniversary of an act of heroism that has forever bound the city of Sheffield with the memories of the American airmen of the B-17 Flying Fortress, known as Mi Amigo.

The memorial event was marked by the respectful parade of the Royal Airforce Air Cadets, whose uniforms and disciplined bearings provided a sombre yet dignified backdrop to the proceedings. Observing the young cadets, one couldn’t help but reflect on the youthfulness they shared with the brave crew of the Mi Amigo. The air cadets, not much younger than those American airmen who, eight decades ago, made the ultimate sacrifice, stood in honour of the fallen, embodying a spirit of remembrance and the continuation of a legacy of service.

The story of the Mi Amigo is one of selflessness and valour. On that fateful day 80 years ago, after being severely damaged during a bombing run over Denmark, the Mi Amigo struggled to return to England. Over Sheffield and miles off course, the crippled aircraft was attempting an emergency landing in Endcliffe Park when it spotted children playing in the Park. In a final act to avoid crashing into the area and risking the lives of those children, the crew of the Mi Amigo steered the failing bomber into a nearby wooded area, tragically losing their lives but saving those on the ground.

The Mi Amigo Memorial in Endcliffe Park has recently been refurbished thanks to generous donations from the people of Sheffield, including ShawMind’s founder, Adam Shaw. Sunday’s event was the official unveiling of the refurbished memorial, and is a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship between the United Kingdom and the United States, forged through shared sacrifice. The stories of the Mi Amigo and its crew were retold, ensuring that the memory of their bravery lives on.

The presence of the Air Cadets was particularly moving. The youth in uniform, standing at attention with the solemnity the occasion deserved, were a stark reminder of the thin line between adolescence and the precipice of adulthood that the crew of the Mi Amigo had once stood upon. The cadets’ participation not only honoured the past but also inspired hope for the future. It is through such acts of remembrance that the lessons of history are passed on, ensuring that the values of courage, integrity, and sacrifice continue to be upheld in the next generation.

In speeches, wreath-layings, and moments of silence, the community reflected upon the cost of freedom and the importance of never taking for granted the peace that many have fought and died for. The clear skies above Sheffield on that day served as a canvas of remembrance, as thoughts turned skyward to where the Mi Amigo once flew, its crew young and determined, now eternally remembered as heroes not just of a nation, but of humanity.

As the event concluded, the echo of the last bugle call faded into the park, and the cadets marched away, the connection between the past and the present remained. The legacy of the Mi Amigo crew is safeguarded by the young, ensuring that their sacrifice will never be forgotten. In parks, across skies, and in the hearts of grateful generations, their story continues to be told – a timeless reminder of the cost of war and the valour of those who serve.

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ShawMind and OG run the FC 24 stand at GSA Esports Community Day, Barnsley Metrodome

Tuesday, February 13th, marked an exciting chapter for us as we participated in the GSA Esports Community Day, a collaborative effort with Barnsley College Esports. The event was nothing short of phenomenal, showcasing the burgeoning interest in esports among the younger generation and their families.

One of the highlights was the extraordinary enthusiasm displayed by young people for playing FC 24 on our consoles. It was heartwarming to see their eyes light up with joy and competitive spirit as they played against their friends and sometimes complete strangers. The sheer number of participants reflected not only the popularity of gaming but also the potential online video games hold as a platform for engagement and development of young people.

Equally impressive was the interest shown by parents and other adults in our Esports Development Programme. This 39-week structured coaching programme is designed with a multifaceted approach to aid young individuals in returning to school, enhancing their social skills, and boosting their self-esteem. The programme is tailored to not only refine their gaming talents—ensuring they have the upper hand in friendly competitions with peers—but also to foster a supportive community where they can thrive.

Safety and well-being are at the forefront of our priorities. We understand the importance of a safe online environment, especially in an era where digital landscapes are ever-expanding and the sheer range and levels of access that children have is staggering. To this end, all our coaches undergo rigorous training in mental health awareness, mental resilience coaching, and peer mentoring, facilitated by ShawMind. Moreover, safeguarding training by the NSPCC ensures that our team is equipped to provide a secure and nurturing space for all participants.

We’re also proud to announce that our programme is Duke Of Edinburgh Award-accredited. This means that young people participating in the bronze, silver, or gold awards can use our programme for the skills section of their D of E, adding an invaluable dimension to their personal development.

The GSA Esports Community Day was a testament to the potential of video gaming as a constructive and educational tool. It was inspiring to witness the community come together, united by a shared passion for esports and the development of our younger generation.

For those interested in participating in our Esports Development Programme, our next training cohort starts in April 2024. Join us on this exciting journey! Whether you’re a young person eager to elevate your gaming skills, a parent interested in supporting your child’s growth, or an adult looking to explore the world of esports, there’s a place for you in our programme. For more information or to join, get in touch with us today and take the first step towards an empowering and engaging experience in the world of esports and young people’s wellbeing!

Learn more about the Esports Development Programme
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Welcome to the #SockItToStigma 2024 Campaign!

Our annual #SockItToStigma campaign aims to shine a light on the stigma surrounding mental health and the harmful impact it can have on individuals. Mental health is often an unspoken topic, especially in the workplace, where fears of judgment and repercussions may hinder open discussions. This silence can lead to negative effects on productivity and work performance.

Stigma continues to deter people from seeking the help they need. It’s crucial that we collectively foster a culture that encourages open dialogue and empowers individuals to share their challenges without fear. As Peter Wingrove, Shawmind CEO, emphasizes, we all have a personal responsibility to create such a supportive environment.

Each year, we call on organizations and schools to join us in breaking the silence by donning their brightest socks throughout February. This vibrant display serves as a fun conversation starter, prompting discussions about the serious subject of mental health.

The goal of #SockItToStigma is to combat stigma within schools and workplaces, sparking conversations around mental health. We aim to encourage free and open dialogues between teachers and students, and among colleagues, fostering an environment where mental health and well-being can be discussed without judgment or fear.

By participating in #SockItToStigma, you demonstrate your commitment to fighting the stigma surrounding mental health. It signals that you are a supportive ally, someone approachable for advice and assistance, free from judgment or repercussion. This campaign has proven to be a lively, interactive way to initiate conversations about mental health.

How can your workplace get involved in #SockItToStigma?

Organizations are encouraged to actively engage in projects that demonstrate understanding and acceptance of the mental and emotional well-being challenges faced by their staff. One impactful way to do this is by organizing a fundraising and sock-wearing competition between staff or departments. Challenge each other to raise funds for the #SockItToStigma cause, supporting mental health training for schools nationwide. As a company, commit to matching the funds raised by employees.

Fundraising activities can be fun and shareable on intranets or social media, but the key ingredient is that the activity must be done while wearing your brightest, quirkiest socks!

1. Post a picture wearing your favourite socks on Instagram.

2. Tag us @shawmind_ and use these hashtags:

   – #SockItToStigma

   – #ChildrensMentalHealthWeek

   – #ShawMind

3. Consider starting a fundraising team on the #SockItToStigma Raisely.com page and challenge other teams!

 

We will support you on our social media and in any PR initiatives.

Let’s unite to break the stigma and create a culture of understanding, support, and open conversation around mental health. Together, we can make a meaningful impact!

How can your school get involved in #SockItToStigma?

Schools need to show that they are both understanding and accepting of the mental and emotional wellbeing challenges of their staff and the children under their care, and that they are there to support them as far as possible.

#SockItToStigma has proven in the past to be a fun, interactive way of getting these conversations started.

Use our #SockItToStigma Activity Pack as a starting point to do something fun together and to use the opportunity to speak about mental health, breaking the stigma around this serious subject.

All funds raised will be used to help fund our Integrated Esports Development Programme.

#SockItToStigma #MentalHealthAwareness #Shawmind

Download Sock It Activity Pack
Download Development Programme Deck
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Showcasing a community that’s leaving no one behind

What’s going on in Sheffield?

Shawmind moved to Sheffield in August 2023 and in 3 short months we already we have formed some fantastic partnerships with local organisations and the community here.

Working alongside some of the top sports clubs, we have been fortunate enough to be able to provide recognition to local organisations for the work that they are doing, as well as provide necessary sponsorship and support to other organisations who need it. Our most recent partnerships include Sheffield Steelers, The Steeldogs, B. Braun Sheffield Sharks and The Hatters.

In early October we were able to give a local mental health charity, MentalMate, and its members the Sheffield Steelers VIP suite in recognition of their fantastic work within the community: they are a mental health boxing club who opened their gym in April and provide free access to the training and coaching facilities for people in the community who struggle with their mental health. They are also there for those who find that boxing provides a form of relief and can also give access to mental health first aid. They work with families and children who are struggling, providing safe spaces and someone to talk to at every gym training session. They have just been nominated locally for a Health and Wellbeing Award for their work in the community, and they very kindly like and repost all our posts on social media which is helping to build our profile locally.

Recently, the Sheffield Sharks played their most formidable opponents, the London Lions. Tickets were eagerly snapped up for this, but again, Shawmind had been fortunate to be able to secure and provide 35 tickets to members of the community, and to the children in Royston Scout Troop, a small troop now looking to raise funds to build their own scout hall.

Within the next few weeks our CEO, Peter, will be delivering mental health awareness training to the Sheffield Sharks – these players are role models within the community to whom many young children look up, so having them understand, and more importantly able to interact with, children who are struggling will have big impact.

Lastly, since moving to Sheffield, we are proud to be supporting the Mi Amigo Restoration Project, a memorial that deeply resonates with our community still today. The restoration plans for the memorial are crucial in order to maintain the site and ensure that it is accessible to everyone who wishes to pay their respects to the air crew who selflessly gave their own lives to protect children and families of Sheffield.

We are working closely with RAFA and the UK Veterans Gamers Association to do a landmark fundraising event  in celebration of the unveiling of the Mi Amigo Memorial next year in Sheffield, supported by Meadowhall Shopping Centre who have allowed us an area upstairs to showcase our exhibition which will include elements from the Mi Amigo story and also that of our work with partners in pioneering mental fitness support within the online video gaming industry, as part of an educational enrichment programme.

It’s been a very busy few months but we are dedicated and excited to continue working with local communities, individuals and organisations to bring the best level of mental health awareness and fitness to Sheffield. We won’t stop striving to ensure that everyone understands the importance of mental health and wellbeing, and that everyone who needs support has access to that. We are small, but mighty organisation, building a community that will leave no one behind.

If you’re interested in the work we do and want to find out more or how we could work together, please get in touch via the contact form here and we will get back to you.

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two girls smiling in school

How Shawmind use your donations

Shawmind is a charity on a mission to improve mental health awareness. After our 2017 parliamentary win towards compulsory mental health education in schools, we are committed to ‘headucating’ individuals and organisations so they understand mental health & emotional wellbeing, and how to manage them effectively to lead successful, fulfilled lives.  

With growing concern for young people’s mental health, with worrying statistics such as 1 in 6 children having mental health problems, and suicide being the third leading cause of death in 16-19 year olds, it is essential to educate children and their carers and provide early intervention to prevent mental illness.  

As a charity, we rely on donations and support so we can keep changing the lives of children, and provide them and their carers with mental health education. We aim to raise £20,000 Here’s how we use YOUR donations to support children’s mental health. 

 

We support educators, parents and carers to: 

  • Not feel overwhelmed by Mental Health in the classroom 
  • Not be the end point of dealing with Mental Health of pupils 
  • Pay attention to the signs of mental health conditions and trauma in children 
  • Provide early intervention and support through available tools and resources 
  • Better educate children about mental and emotional health 
  • Reduce stigma around mental health 
  • Signpost children to appropriate mental health support when needed. 

This supports children to: 

  • Better understand their emotions 
  • Seek help when they are struggling mentally 
  • Look after themselves when they need a mental health break  

 

How you can support us?

Do you want to support us so we can support a child’s mental health? For every £6 you donate, we can support a child for a year, and everyone £100 can provide THREE teachers with the resources they need.  

Are you a corporation looking to donate during the holiday season? For every £1500 you donate, we can support one school for SIX months! 

 

If you want to support us, here’s what you can do: 

 

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person doing heart shape with hands

4 Free ways to fundraise

We often associate fundraising with organised events, sponsored challenges, and wide-scale donation collections, but we forget that there are lots of different ways to fundraise and help charities. Here is a list of 4 easy ways to fundraise that are simple, yet effective.

1. Legacy gift

Leaving a legacy gift to a charity in your Will allows you to help and support charities and keep their services running for years to come.

If you wish to leave a legacy gift to a charity in your Will, there are several ways you can do so:

  • Leave a pecuniary gift

Donate a fixed sum of money to a charity in your Will. It is a good idea to review pecuniary gifts regularly as their value may be lessened by inflation.

  • Leave a residuary gift

Leave a percentage of your estate to a charity. Unlike a pecuniary gift, your donation won’t lose value over time.

  • Leave a specific gift

Donate specific assets to a charity in your Will such as personal possessions, property, or shares. Describe the item as accurately as possible to avoid any ambiguity.

Do you want to change lives by leaving a legacy gift to Shawmind in your Will? By doing so, you will be helping to fund our work improving the mental health of the next generation. In return we will cover the cost of drafting your standard Will.

2. Shop using Amazon Smile

Amazon Smile is a donation programme operated by Amazon that lets customers enjoy the same wide selection of products, low prices, and convenient shopping features as on Amazon. The difference is that when you shop on Amazon Smile, Amazon will donate 0.5% of the net purchase price (excluding VAT, returns and shipping fees) to the eligible charitable organisation of your choice – at no cost to you. Currently, Amazon Smile has donated £14.2 million to various charities. Just search for “Shawmind” on the Amazon Smile website to start donating to us with your next Amazon shop.

3. Donate using round-ups of your small change

You can support your favourite charity through small acts of kindness by donating pennies from your daily purchases – all through the safe and secure Pledjar mobile app. To donate to Shawmind using Pledjar, simply use the code SMF001 when setting the app up.

4. Volunteer your time

Volunteers are the backbone of charity organisations. Without volunteers providing frontline service, fundraising, events, publicity, and campaign efforts, many charities would be unable to cope.

Not only is volunteering incredibly valuable to charities, but it is also a fun and easy way to explore your interests and passions. Doing charity volunteer work that you find meaningful and interesting can be a relaxing, energising escape from your day-to-day routine of work, school, or family commitments. Volunteering also provides you with renewed creativity, motivation, and vision that can carry over into your personal and professional life.

At Shawmind, we are currently recruiting volunteers to help in our Breathe spaces in Nottinghamshire and our WhatsApp support. By becoming a Shawmind volunteer you will be supporting people in your community when they need it most. Shawmind relies on volunteers to be able to offer our local services, and therefore even a commitment of one hour a week can make a big difference. All our volunteers receive free mental health training and will receive a written reference if requested.

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Welcome to our new Director of Fundraising

Laura Millard joined us on 9th May as our new Fundraising Director heading up our events, legacy campaigns, grants, bids, corporate and community donations.

Laura has many years of charity and fundraising experience but also understands, personally, the challenges of mental health and the impact it can have.

With lots of exciting plans in the pipeline she said, “I’m so happy to be part of the Shawmind family and look forward to getting stuck in and driving our mission forward”.

Laura lives on the outskirts of Birmingham with her family and dog Mylo and in her spare time enjoys walking, reading and cooking.

If you would like to get in touch about ways you can fundraise for Shawmind, please contact Laura.

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Make a difference to the lives of young people in Nottinghamshire

What have you done today to improve your sense of well-being? Have you had an impact on somebody else’s well-being?

One way to have a direct impact on your own sense of well-being is to volunteer to work with other people.

Shawmind are currently recruiting and training volunteers in Nottinghamshire who would like to spend time supporting young people. If you are a good listener and have some time to commit to regular sessions we would love to hear from you.

Shawmind deliver a range of mental health awareness sessions specifically for young people, this is an opportunity to support conversations about mental health while providing sign-posting to local services. Shawmind sessions are not therapeutic but rather provide a space to address loneliness and isolation with time to talk to others. Volunteers provide a listening ear and help with information and moderation of activities.

The benefits of being volunteering include:

  • Gaining confidence
  • Making a difference to others
  • Meeting amazing and interesting people
  • Being part of a community
  • Learning new skills and
  • Having some fun together!

Complete our application form to become part of a team who make a real difference.

Apply to be a volunteer and make a difference to young people in Nottinghamshire

Shawmind’s Volunteer Programmes

Volunteering and its Surprising Benefits – HelpGuide.org

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A special thanks to Veezu for making us their charity of the year.
Reg. Address: Unit 1, Waterside Court, 3 bold Street, Sheffield, S9 2LR, UK.
We are a registered charity in England (1167947), and a registered non-profit company (09921207) in the UK.
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