Following the publication of the What Kingston Thinks research report in March, Kingston Giving has been working hard to respond to the key findings and develop a set of actionable priorities.
Funded by City Bridge Foundation, Rocket Science commissioned peer research, together with a needs analysis, this report offered valuable insight directly from local people to shape Kingston Giving’s work over the next 3–5 years.
Mental health and well-being emerged as a top concern, with 39% of respondents reporting they were struggling in this area. In response, Kingston Giving is committed to strengthening community engagement through better communication, collaboration, and targeted funding—aimed at improving the mental health of everyone in the borough.
As part of this vision, Kingston Giving has announced a new initiative to improve the visibility and accessibility of the mental health support already available in Kingston.
Two new mental health signposting leaflets aimed at young people and adults have been published. “How are you doing?” is designed to help adults navigate both local and NHS services available to them while “What’s up?” is geared towards young people.
These important resource leaflets aim to make vital information accessible to both age groups. They include clearly signposted contact points for mental health support—such as helplines, local support hubs, and collocated services. Although Kingston Giving cannot directly reduce waiting times for those in crisis, the goal is to help people “wait well,” offering support and early intervention options wherever possible.
This initiative is just one step in a broader commitment to improve mental well-being across Kingston. By connecting people with the right support at the right time, Kingston Giving hopes to make a meaningful difference.
Hicky Kingsbury, Kingston Giving CEO, said: “These leaflets, carefully developed by our team, in consultation with experts from the NHS, Royal Borough of Kingston and leading Kingston Mental Health Charities, have the potential to change the lives of thousands of Kingston residents; we know from experience the difference they will make as they are following on from our essential ‘Hot Food, Warm Spaces leaflet’ that was also created in response to local need. These resources will be regularly updated and available both online and boroughwide, ensuring they reach all communities to enable them to make the most possible impact.
“We thank Barwell Business Park for choosing to partner with Kingston Giving on these important mental health support resources, for Kingston residents.
Barwell Business Park’s support is a great example of corporate social responsibility done right—responding directly to the needs our community has identified in our recent ‘What Kingston Thinks’ research.
“But we can always do more. Want to know how your business could directly help local people with their Mental Health? Reach out to us to start a conversation.”
Read What’s Up?
Read How are you doing?