Open Mind was first started in The University of Manchester in 2016 with two clear goals; to support and help those dealing with mental health issues and to educate students and raise awareness across campus and beyond. Because we are student-led, all of our efforts are done entirely voluntarily alongside our degree programmes.

Almost everyone will be touched by mental health issues at one point in their lives, whether it be directly or by somebody they know personally being affected. In our first year as a society, we have achieved our goals by hosting workshops, mental health art galleries, movie nights, panel talks and leaflet drops. We also run a successful Medium blog which gives students with mental health issues a voice. We also have our reoccurring 'PositiviTea' for people to enjoy free tea, coffee and cake in a welcoming and relaxing environment. At the end of each semester we host a 'Share Your Story' night, in which we get many courageous volunteers telling their mental health journey.

Our efforts saw our team winning New Society of The Year at The 2017 Union Awards and Outstanding Contribution to Equality & Diversity at the Making a Difference Awards 2017.

It would be amazing to raise money to help us continue to support the students of the University of Manchester and continue to raise awareness for what is an incredibly important cause.