Wellbeing project scoops innovation award – Southend-on-Sea City Council

Local project wins Most Innovative Mental Health Intervention award. Southend-on-Sea City Council in partnership with Metal Arts Charities NetPark Wellbeing project has been recognised at this year’s Mental Health Awards, winning the Most Innovative Mental Health Intervention award. The project was judged amongst seven other worthy nominees from organisations across the country at the award ceremony held on Thursday 2 November 2023. The winning project focuses on supporting individuals with a range of mental health challenges including dementia, depression, stress, anxiety, early psychosis, learning disabilities, and social isolation and runs two weekly dementia groups and five additional groups for those with mental health needs. It is part of a programme of initiatives the council works on in conjunction with partners and charities to support local people. Andrea Cunningham, Metal Southend director, said: “Metal is thrilled that Netpark Wellbeing has received this prestigious award. This recognition truly underscores the significance of art, culture, and creativity in fostering positive health outcomes within our communities. As an arts organisation dedicated to catalysing creative social change in our localities, we take great pride in this work.” Councillor James Moyies, cabinet member for public health, adult social care and constitutional affairs, added: “I am pleased that the council and Metal have been recognised at the National Mental Health Awards. It’s testament to the hard work and collaborative approach of colleagues from the council, Metal Arts and the volunteers and students who gave their time and brought their valuable personal experiences to this project.”