Our Statement on Time to Change

Posted by See Me, 28 October 2020

It is with great disappointment that we heard the news that Time to Change England (England’s national anti-stigma programme) will end in March 2021 after the UK Government confirmed it is not in a position to fund the programme into the future.

We know that tackling mental health stigma and discrimination is key in enabling people to be able to live fulfilled lives and there is still work to do.

It is also unfortunate that disinvestment in England’s national anti-stigma programme is happening at a time when more people across the UK are experiencing mental health problems for the first time, others are facing a recurrence of mental health challenges and many people are struggling to get the help and support they need.

We know unless we continue to focus on addressing stigma it will continue to act a barrier and stop people from reaching out and getting the help and support they require.

See Me has worked really closely with Time to Change for many years to take forward joint campaigns, including Time to Talk Day. We have learned from the different experiences and approaches, and shared research and evidence about what works to end stigma and discrimination. Folding the programme will not only be a great loss to the anti-stigma movement in England but will have a significant impact on the UK and Global Anti Stigma Alliances too.