‘It’s good to talk’ – Mental Health Awareness

Mental health is a subject that received very little conversation in the past. Thankfully times have changed, and considering that at any one time one sixth of the population in England has a mental health problem such as anxiety or depression, it is a blessing it’s now discussed more candidly.

Mental health has become a focus for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, with the Royal Foundation spearheading mental health initiative Heads Together. To mark the start of Mental Health Awareness Week on 13th May 2019, the Duke of Cambridge joined stars of television and music to record a radio message to highlight the value of listening to a friend in need. At Badgemore Park, we absolutely agree with this sentiment and we are proud to support mental health awareness in the UK.

Badgemore Park and The Connell family, owners of Badgemore Park since 1997,  have supported The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust since 1998. Charlie was just 28 years old when he took his own life. To the outside world he was happy, with everything to live for, but sadly he was suffering from depression and, for whatever reason, felt unable to talk about what he was experiencing. After his death in 1997, The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust was set up, and Charlie’s family and friends have worked tirelessly to increase awareness of the symptoms and dangers of depression and remove the stigma that is attached to mental illness. Their vision is of “A world where people understand and talk openly about depression, where young people know how to maintain wellbeing, and where the most appropriate treatment is available to everyone who needs it.”

On 22nd May 2019, Badgemore Park will be hosting the 20th Charlie Waller Charity Golf Day and Lunch. The highlight will be the unveiling of a bronze statue privately commissioned by Sir Mark and Lady Waller and the Connell family. This emotive piece of art, entitled ‘It’s good to talk’, was created by the incredibly talented sculptor Laura Jane Wylder and her husband Sebastian. The magnificent sculpture, which features three figures deep in conversation, has been a rewarding and exciting project for all involved.

For those who fancy a sneak preview, the sculpture is in situ opposite the Pro Shop. We’d love your feedback, and we’d encourage our members to visit www.cwmt.org.uk to find out more about the Trust, which helps people day in, day out through mental health awareness.

#mentalhealthawareness