Fundraising festive jumper day begins partnership with Mind in Bradford

It began with a fundraising display of sparkling festive jumpers.

And now the partnership between Bradford College and mental health charity Mind in Bradford is set to continue.

The college has pledged to work closely with the charity over the next year to support community mental health. “It’s really important to us that we have fun while promoting mental wellbeing within the college,” said Bradford College’s lead mental health and wellbeing practitioner Vicki Gonzalez.

Festive jumper day raises £244

In December Vicki organised a Festive Jumper Day. She encouraged college staff to wear big, bright jumpers and donate to Mind in Bradford.

The event raised a total of £244.82, which Vicki and Graham Bailey, Head of Student Services, presented to the charity.

There are now plans for the college to work with Mind in Bradford on a variety of events and activities over the next year.

As well as volunteering to befriend and support students who need support, the college is also planning activities for throughout the year. They include Mental Health Awareness Week in May, and World Mental Health Awareness Day in October.

Opportunities to support mental health

Staff also have opportunities to take part in mental health first aid training. The course teaches the skills to spot the signs of mental health issues in a young person. They can also offer first aid, and guide them towards the support they need.

Lydia Gray, Fundraising and Development Officer at Mind in Bradford, said: “We’re really excited to be partnering with Bradford College. It’s great to see the mental health and wellbeing of the students being a key focus for the college and we’re looking forward to seeing how we can support this. I think it’s going to be a fantastic partnership.”

Find out more about Mind in Bradford at https://www.mindinbradford.org.uk/