The owner of Westgate Oxford, Landsec, has now announced a new partnership with leading mental health charity, Mind, launching today (10th October).
Coinciding with World Mental Health Day, the initiative looks to champion mental health awareness and support.
Mind is a national charity dedicated to supporting those experiencing mental health challenges by tackling stigma, improving access to services, and campaigning for positive change.
One in five people in the UK are currently living with a mental health problem, and many of these individuals are struggling to access timely support. Mind works to ensure that no one faces these challenges alone, with there being 107 Local Minds operating independently across the UK – supporting more than 500,000 people each year through community-based mental health services, a national helpline, and accessible online resources.
Andrew Berrie, Head of Corporate Partnerships for Mind, said, “Right now, the nation’s mental health is in crisis. One in five people are living with a mental health problem, and far too many are not getting the help they need.
“Our partnership with Westgate Oxford allows us to reach people in an everyday setting — reminding them that mental health affects us all, and that support is always available. The installations will help us potentially connect with millions of shoppers at the centre over the next year encouraging small moments of reflection and letting people know that Mind is here whenever they need us.”
Working together, Westgate Oxford and Mind are encouraging guests to take moments to pause, reflect, and reset as part of a new mental health awareness campaign in the centre.
Throughout the centre, visitors will now be able to find thoughtfully placed artwork, including mirror stickers and selfie stands, featuring uplifting prompts that inspire positivity and mindfulness.
The installations also direct guests to practical resources and information, both on and offline, about where they can access further mental health support locally.
Brendan Hattam, Centre Director at Westgate Oxford, said, “We’re proud to partner with Mind to help promote positive mental health among our guests. Shopping centres can often be busy, fast-paced environments, so we wanted to create moments within the mall that encourage people to pause and take a breath.
“This initiative is about reminding our visitors that taking time for themselves, even in small ways, can make a big difference — and that help and support is always available if they need it.”
