public affairs and policy
fighting for change
Change Mental Health works closely with Government, industry and third sector partners to influence and improve Scotland’s mental health policy and support services.
Our work includes one-to-one meetings with local and national officials as well as elected members, organising events such as open days and service visits; hosting Parliamentary receptions and policy discussions; attending conferences and symposiums; and maintaining and developing Change Mental Health’s policy insights and stances.
the big picture
One of Change Mental Health’s key aims is to innovate, influence and inspire change across Scotland’s mental health system, the third sector and society. We want to not only support people today but shape the future of Scotland’s mental health.
A strategic principle of Change Mental Health is ‘Campaigning, Changing the System and Providing a Platform.’ This sets out why we want to change mental health support for the better.
The mental health system in Scotland is unjust. Too many people can’t get the support they need in a timely manner, too much resource is directed to acute services rather than preventative support, and too often the voices of those with lived and living experience are ignored. We will campaign to shift public narratives, influence legislation and dismantle structural barriers.
How this will influence our decisions
- We will prioritise advocating for systemic change, immersing ourselves in different policy spheres to maximise our influence.
- We will provide platforms and opportunities for people with lived experience to influence decision-makers and the wider system.
- We will challenge stigma and advocate for tangible changes in the media, parliament and society.
What success looks like
- Our voice is bold, credible and rooted in the people we serve.
- We are influencing the system successfully.
- We are providing a platform for those affected by mental illness.
- Those with lived experience feel empowered and represented through our work.
areas of focus
Rural and island communities cannot be left behind
Life in rural and island localities can present unique challenges when it comes to accessing support. We host the National Rural and Islands Mental Health Forum, working to engage policymakers and decision-makers at the local, regional and national level. As one of the largest mental health service providers in the Highlands and Dumfries and Galloway, we take seriously our responsibilities to create lasting change.
Mental health and illness support should be accessible and rooted in the community
Our support services and resources stretch from Stranraer to Golspie and are firmly rooted in the communities we serve. We bring together statutory and third sector partners to ensure people receive the support they need, at a place and pace that works for them.
Read more about recent activities from local services.
It’s not enough to respond to crisis – we must intervene early and adopt a prevention approach to mental health policy
When people get support early in their mental health journey, outcomes improve and costs decrease. Scotland's public services have begun an exciting journey of reimagining and reform. We continue to amplify the voices and experiences of the people we support to local and national decision-makers, ensuring prevention services are protected and expanded.
Read our recent report on EIP.
our policy publications
Get in touch
If you would like more information about the work of Change Mental Health and how you could be involved locally and nationally contact Jamie Poulton-Grant and Jim Hume at communications@changemh.org
If you are a researcher, or would like to know more about our policy research work please contact research@changemh.org
