The national programme to eliminate mental health stigma and discrimination, See Me, has been awarded £5 million of SNP Government funding for five years.
The continuing investment will allow See Me to carry on their important work as part of the wider national response to the mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The funding was announced along the launch of See Me’s new strategy for the same period, With Fairness in Mind, which amongst other goals aims to increase learning through gathering, applying and testing the evidence of what works to change attitudes, behaviours and cultures to end mental health stigma and discrimination.
Mental Wellbeing Minister Kevin Stewart MSP said:
“I am pleased to announce continued funding for See Me of £1 million a year until March 2026. This is not only a sign of our trust and belief in See Me but also in recognition of the importance of tackling the stigma and discrimination.
“We know that the pandemic has had a substantial impact on the mental health of the population, and is likely to continue to do so. It has never been more important to look after our mental health. That is why we are working to create a Scotland where people can get the right help at the right time, and to fully enjoy their rights, free from stigma and discrimination."
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“While we have come on leaps and bounds compared to when many of us grew up - and especially men weren’t supposed to talk about their feelings - mental health stigma still does exist.
“Tackling such stigma is crucial to mental health improvement, because of the barriers it presents for recovery, prevention and early intervention.
“However old you are and whatever is causing you grief, it’s OK to acknowledge and vocalise it.
“This £5 million funding will help See Me continue their constructive work, enabling more people to access the support, care and treatment they need.”
You can read the strategy on the See Me website.
Under Commitment 1.6 of the Mental Health Transition and Recovery Plan, the SNP Government will continue to work with See Me to tackle the fundamental barriers of stigma and discrimination. The longer term approach to funding See Me will support delivery of this commitment. It also supports wider commitments around engaging people with lived experience, supporting mental health in the workplace and in local communities.
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