Tag: communication

Let’s Talk Better Presents: Inclusive Minds – Breaking Barriers, Celebrating Neurodiversity and LGBTQ+

Posted on by darren192

On April 23rd, Let’s Talk Better CIC proudly hosted our latest 7th community event, Inclusive Minds—Breaking Barriers: Celebrating Neurodiversity and LGBTQ+. This powerful and inspiring gathering brought together young people, professionals, community members, and allies on a shared mission to break down stigma, amplify unheard voices, and build spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

Why did we choose this topic?

More than ever, these two topics are becoming more prominent in the public eye and especially within workplace environments.  Although things have been changing and moving forward, there is still so much to be done – including understanding more about how we as a society can help to support and adapt better for neurodivergent individuals. Personally, through my encounters of working with neurodivergent and LGBTQ+, and from speaking with others, there is still a huge gap, with so much still to be addressed. In a world that too often overlooks or misunderstands those who are neurodivergent or LGBTQ+, this event stood as a bold declaration that inclusion is not optional — it’s essential.

A Day of Empowerment, Expression, and Education

Held once again in a vibrant, welcoming community-focused space, Community House Bromley, which caters for many community events, as well as the home base for many charities. The theme “Breaking Barriers” was a direct call to challenge the societal, cultural, and systemic blocks that continue to marginalise these communities. More than just a conversation, this event was a movement in action that provided a platform for those to share their lived experiences; how they made their special differences inspire them to achieve their goals and dreams; to express how stigmas and taboos can hold people’s potential back. In addition, it opened up conversations about the pros and cons of what support systems are in or not in place.  Of course, this day shone a light on celebrating the uniqueness and greatness of All Neurodivergent and the LGBTQ+.

On this day, we featured a rich programme of keynote speakers sharing powerful lived experiences of navigating the world as neurodivergent and/or LGBTQ+ individuals:

Chris Woodley, Writer and Actor, right here from the heart of Bromley, spoke about how he knew from a very early age that he was gay and later on being diagnosed neurodivergent. He was blessed with a supportive family, which made a huge difference for him growing up. He shared his struggles and how he used acting to become the incredible screenwriter he is today, giving him the power to shine!

Chris Woodley said, “As a dyslexic writer, returning to Bromley, where I was born and raised, to speak about the importance of LGBTQ+ voices and neurodivergent creatives was incredibly meaningful. Sharing my experiences growing up under Section 28 and talking with locals about my play, Next Lesson, felt especially powerful. It’s a play rooted in Bromley, yet it’s never been performed here, despite being staged at the Houses of Parliament, in the U.S., and Australia. That contrast struck a chord and reminded me how vital it is, now more than ever, that we listen to and support one another within our community. I’m incredibly grateful to Let’s Talk Better for getting the chance to share my story.”

Mercedes Yearly, Director of Quest Soul Theatre, runs numerous community initiatives in Bromley, from Wellbeing Through Drama to Creative Cafes. She spoke openly about her journey being ADHD, being diagnosed bi-polar at 44 and the impact of not knowing what was truly going on- finally made sense.  Mercedes also shared how ‘Talking Therapy’ didn’t work for her, as she is someone who loves to talk and doesn’t stop, and this was not what she needed. However, she finally found ‘Art Therapy,’ her creative instrument that is helping her manage her emotional roller coaster and is now qualified as an Art Therapist. It was beautiful to see first-hand some of the intimate artwork she had created in her art therapy sessions! Hear this and through the work, Zeenat Noorani- The Clarity Coach does, she knows that the key to helping her clients is about finding the intervention and modality specific to the clients’ needs.  

Mercedes commented, “Let’s Talk Better is really important”

Pleased to welcome, The Deputy Mayor of Bromley (2024-2025), Cllr Johnathan Andrew, and Chair of the Bromley All-Age Autism Board, shared some of his personal experiences, and with great support for LTB, “…is a particularly important initiative” 

During the event, we all took part and immersed ourselves in deep, inspiring conversations through:

  • Interactive activities exploring inclusive practices in schools, workplaces, and support settings — from communication strategies and sensory inclusion to allyship and mental health.
  • Creative expression, with spoken word, an open floor that gave space for authentic voices to be heard.
  • Networking opportunities to connect, learn, and take action beyond the day.

Each session was designed not only to inform but to inspire change, equipping attendees with practical tools and deeper understanding to take back into their communities.

Centring Youth Voices

At the heart of the event were the young people and how we as a society need to do more to catch the diagnosis earlier on, have the right intervention implemented and understand that not one size fits all. Like Mercedes’ story, imagine if she had been able to get this reading earlier in life, and the impact this would have made for her.  Heartbreaking, and only a greater emphasis on educating the wider society, through honest dialogue, brave storytelling, and raw creativity, to lead the way in showing what true inclusion can look like. From a young autistic speaker advocating for more sensory-friendly learning environments to a trans teen passionately sharing why visibility and correct pronoun use matter, the message was loud and clear: young people are not just the future, they are the now.

A few words from our attendees:

Emma Mehuex- supporter from day one and a past speaker, “Lovely to see you today, and the event was excellent. It really got me thinking about a few things to do with neurodiversity. I am so looking forward to watching LTB grow now that it’s a CIC. “

Neil Peter, a regular attendee and past speaker of the LTB –  “Working in suicide prevention and mental health, we know that neurodivergent people are at greater risk, so it’s great that community awareness is growing about the challenges they face and how we can support them better. Let Talk Better always explore these important topics, and it was inspiring to hear the personal stories of hope and recovery, particularly how those sharing their lived experience found the right pathways to support that were specific to them as individuals.”

Jacqui Weale, a proactive attendee and advocate for LTB –  “All I can say is the speakers, Chris and Mercedes, it was for the audience a deeply personal story they both told of their journeys with being neurodiverse and part of the LGBTQ+ community. It spoke of pain and learning, but also of the richness of their lives because of it. It was a deeply personal, emotional, positive, insightful event for all who attended and for some, a better understanding of these communities. “

Sarah Marsh-Collings, a huge advocate and a past speaker of LTB, ”Once again, an enjoyable and worthwhile time spent at the LTB event. The first guest speaker, Chris Woodley, was entertaining and enlightening, and I made the most of his offer of a free copy of his first play, Lessons Learnt, to give to a friend’s teenage daughter – she was delighted. Unfortunately, I had to leave early, so I missed Mercedes Yearley’s talk, but feedback from other members was that it was insightful and enjoyable. Well done, Zeenat, on yet another successful event!”

Helen Marsh, Head of Communication and Engagement for South East London Care Systems and One Bromley – LTB, is “really valuable” as a safe space. Have a listen to the episode of the BromleyBuzz for context: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3xpP4wiGGHv8r9uXHYEf4t

LTB would like to thank Radfield Home Care, Directors Simi Ghuman and Chanice Baugh, for their ongoing support in the work we do and our mission to bring better understanding and change for the unspoken topics and barriers – Simi Ghuman, Director of Radfield ‘‘It was a great event!’’

What’s Next For LTB?

Inclusive Minds – Breaking Barriers was not a one-off moment. It was part of a broader movement driven by Let’s Talk Better CIC to ensure that every person, regardless of identity, neurotype, experience or background, can show up fully, without fear or shame.

We’re committed to continuing these conversations, growing our network, and delivering more spaces for healing, learning, and collective action.

To everyone who attended, participated, supported, and shared — thank you. Your presence and voice made this event the beautiful, bold, and brave space it became.

Together, we are breaking barriers, opening up delicate conversations, and building better futures.

Let’s keep the conversation going.
Let’s keep showing up.
Let’s Talk Better.

Words That Fuel Us

We were moved by the overwhelming positivity from attendees. A few quotes from past events:

“This was the first time I’ve felt truly safe and heard in a public event.”
“I learned more in one afternoon than years of reading – hearing real stories makes all the difference.”
“My child walked away feeling proud of who they are. That’s priceless.”                                                      ’‘LTB has given me the courage to step out of my fear and share my story, not just here but through my poetry and on social media, thank you.’’

These responses reaffirm what we believe: inclusive spaces change lives.

Special Acknowledgements:

Rotary Bromley Game-Changers, where we have had the pleasure of working alongside and the support of the Team Volunteers for all our events. Special thanks to Nolene Harris.

Community House Bromley, for providing such a wonderful location to hold our events – special thanks to Kerry Godwin, Business Support Officer, who has been instrumental in helping with bookings and setting up our events.  

TESCOS Orpington and Bromley – Community Champions Jessica and Michael, who have been generous with their donations of refreshments, cakes, biscuits and snacks to keep our attendees energised with goodies!

Author: Zeenat Noorani – The Clarity Coach, Co-founder & Director of Let’s Talk Better CIC

Embrace Body Positivity: Tips from the LTB Event

Posted on by darren192

Breaking the Chains of Body Image, Stigmas, and the Path to Embracing Ourselves

The Let’s Talk Better Campaign (LTB) held its quarterly event on November 29th, 2024, on the topic of Body Image – Embrace Yourself, Talking Stigmas & Taboos. During our recent Let’s Talk Better event, we explored some of the challenges we face, especially the younger generation and how we can foster a healthier relationship with our bodies. The discussion shed light on the staggering statistics, reasons behind the rising concerns, and actionable steps to address this growing issue.

Body image has long been a complex and deeply personal aspect of our identity, yet it has become increasingly entangled with societal pressures, unrealistic standards, and taboos that can take a toll on our mental health and wellbeing.  

As I write this, I reflect on my own experience of facing the challenges of body image during my career as a professional figure skater.  Looking back, this began way back during my primary school days and carried on into my early 40s until one day; I decided to take control and not allow external pressures to impact my decisions and the way I live my life. Ten years on, I am in a better place, though at times, it can be difficult as I know I am dealing with menopause and its challenges. The bonus is, that I now have a different mindset, a set of tools and strategies that help me keep a perspective of what is real.  With this, I have the qualifications and a true passion to help support young people to better educate and understand themselves and their bodies to help prevent them from falling prey to societal expectations.

Let’s look at the Current Landscape with Body Image and Young People

Recent studies paint a concerning picture:

  • According to a 2023 NHS Digital report, 1 in 3 children and young people aged 11-16 feel dissatisfied with their body image, a significant increase from previous years.
  • Social media platforms have been identified as a major influence, with 87% of teens reporting they compare their appearance to edited or filtered images online.
  • Body dissatisfaction is now linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety, with the Mental Health Foundation reporting that 61% of young people who struggle with body image also experience significant mental health challenges.

These statistics underline the urgency of addressing the body image crisis, particularly as it continues to escalate among younger generations.

So, Why are Concerns about Body Image increasing?

Several factors contribute to the rise in body image concerns:

  1. Social Media and Digital Culture: The constant exposure to curated, often unrealistic images on platforms like Instagram and TikTok creates a toxic comparison cycle. Filters and editing tools blur the line between reality and aspiration, leaving young people striving for unattainable perfection.
  2. Cultural Standards and Media Representation: Narrow definitions of beauty continue to dominate movies, advertisements, and fashion. This reinforces the idea that only certain body types are “worthy” of admiration.
  3. Bullying and Peer Pressure: Young people frequently face judgment or teasing about their appearance, both online and offline. This not only damages self-esteem but can lead to long-term mental health issues.
  4. Post-Pandemic Lifestyle Changes: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routines, increased sedentary behaviour, and heightened feelings of isolation—factors that compounded body image struggles for many.

What are the impacts of this on Mental Health and Wellbeing?

Body image issues are more than skin deep. They can:

  • Lead to low self-esteem, affecting school performance and relationships.
  • Trigger disordered eating behaviours such as binge eating or restrictive diets.
  • Increase the risk of anxiety disorders and depression, particularly when combined with cyberbullying or social isolation.
  • Reduce participation in physical activities due to fear of judgment, further exacerbating health concerns.

Insights from the Embrace Your Body Event

Our Let’s Talk Better campaign brought together young people, parents, and experts to discuss how we can challenge stigmas and embrace body diversity. Key takeaways included:

  • Shifting Narratives: Guest speakers emphasised the importance of celebrating all body types and recognising that beauty comes in many forms. One speaker noted, ‘Your body is your home. It’s not meant to fit anyone’s expectations but your own.’ ‘Your body is like constellations of beautiful stars.’
  • The Role of Parents and Educators: We all further discussed how to model positive body language, avoid negative talk about appearance, and focus on health over aesthetics.
  • Self-Compassion Practices: We introduced mindfulness exercises to help young people practice gratitude for their bodies’ functionality rather than their appearance.

I would like to share some tips for Preventing Body Image Issues

To combat these challenges, we must foster environments where young people feel empowered to embrace their uniqueness. Here are actionable steps:

  1. Educate About Media Literacy: Teach children and teens to critically evaluate the images they see online and understand the prevalence of editing and filters.
  2. Promote Positive Role Models: Highlight diverse representations of beauty in media, books, and community events.
  3. Encourage Open Conversations: Create safe spaces at home and school where young people can express their feelings without judgment.
  4. Focus on Strengths Beyond Appearance: Praise qualities like kindness, creativity, and resilience over physical traits.
  5. Engage in Advocacy: Support campaigns and organisations working to challenge harmful beauty standards and hold social media platforms accountable.

My final message to you: A Path Toward Acceptance

Body image will always be a part of how we see ourselves, but it doesn’t have to define our worth. By breaking stigmas, challenging societal norms, and prioritising mental health, we can empower young people to build a healthier, more compassionate relationship with their bodies.

Together, let’s embrace the message shared at our event: ”Every single body is a beautiful body.”

How are you fostering body positivity in your community? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Let’s keep the conversation going!

Author Zeenat Noorani – The Clarity Coach

The Power of Words

Posted on by darren192

Written by Emma Mehuex.

A beautiful and inspiring poem written by Emma, especially for the Let’s Talk Better campaign which she read aloud at the First Anniversary event ‘ Celebrating Positivity’ on the 22nd of February 2024.

Emma has been a huge loyal supporter of what the LTB stands for since it launched in February 2023, not missing a single event. More importantly, what we do has given her and many others a platform where they feel safe to speak up for the very first time, sharing their ghosts from the past. And this is exactly what Emma did. She shared and spoke about her challenges of the past through several poems, touching the hearts of many of us who were in that room. These poems she shared were heard for the very first time ever. We are honoured that you chose Let’s Talk Better to do this and to create a poem for us.

Thank you Emma.

You are BRAVE, INSPIRATIONAL and truly RESILIENT.

Author Zeenat Noorani

Anniversary event 22 February 2024

Posted on by darren192

As 2024 begins, we will be looking forward to celebrating the first anniversary of the #LetsTalkBetter campaign with an event themed ‘Celebrating Positivity’.

Moving on from 2023 with its three events, Zeenat’s being named as a ‘One In A Million’ figure in a national magazine, and inspiring and creating better conversations around #stigma and #taboo and other topics, we pick up the thread again in 2024.

That includes Founders Zeenat Noorani and Darren Weale saying, ”Thank you to all of you who have supported us on our journey so far. Without you by our side, this would not happen. Together, we are creating positive change.”

Tickets here.

Declaration of Let’s Talk Better

Posted on by darren192

The Let’s Talk Better campaign is built on a series of principles, summed up as the Declaration of Let’s Talk Better, below. This is our view based on our thinking and experience to date, but this will change in some respects going forwards, as life and the times we live in are not a constant.

  1. ‘All of us can learn to be better at talking and listening to fellow humans’*;
  2. ‘The only way that we are going to achieve genuine closeness is to have better conversations with each other’*;
  3. The value of conversation runs across society, from boardrooms to bedrooms, from schools to nursing homes, from parliament to the pub;
  4. Difficult issues can be resolved by cultivating understanding and the ability to have positive conversations;
  5. Cultures of silence and taboos do harm. It is often important to #breakthesilence and to talk;
  6. We need to talk better and more consistently about the truly big issues where action is imperative and do not allow them to be marginalised by transitory headlines. Then more issues that matter will be resolved, from climate change to toxic workplaces, and more;
  7. Talking better helps to build wellbeing, improve relationships, deepen friendships and shared understanding, reduces loneliness, helps mental health, and should fight bigotry and discrimination;
  8. Better conversations include listening to each other in a calm, open and respectful way on all topics. There are limits, however. Dr Charlotte Fox Weber has spoken of a current trend towards ‘living out loud”. She refers to it as “a broadcasting of emotions that can be overly exposing when people feel that they have to tell their entire story to everyone. Sometimes you can speak your truth, you can know your truth, without having to say everything to everyone”. Some matters are, consequently, best shared with and addressed by qualified expert coaches and therapists;
  9. Sharing relevant stories – as Stacey Dooley has around mental health and the young, as Nihal Arthanayake has in Let’s Talk, as Max Dickins has in Billy No-Mates, and Johan Hari has in Stolen Focus – is important;
  10. Change is achievable. Pressures such as new technology and changes to work-life balance do not inevitably mean that people’s attention continues to erode, and that the art of conversation continues to decline. We can innovate and help people to talk more and in better ways, to achieve better mindsets and over all wellbeing.

* From one of our inspirations, Let’s Talk, by Nihal Arthanayake

Something must be done to help present and future generations. So #LetsTalkBetter starts now.

Zeenat Noorani and Darren Weale, 2 April 2023

Changing the world, one meeting at a time

Posted on by darren192

It was just the start, just the one, debut Let’s Talk Better campaign event.

But…

You know when something has been a success when people talk about it even before you, the organisers, do. We, Zeenat Noorani and Darren Weale, were quite taken back by the positive energy and comments received, even before the event, held on 24th February 2023, had started!

More on the event itself in a moment, but, first, to share some of those comments.

Even as the book displays were put away, the balloons removed, the projector and screen packed up, and plates emptied of Sri Lankan cuisine headed for the kitchen of Bromley’s Copper Ceylon restaurant, feedback on the launch was already on its way. Over the rest of the day unsolicited LinkedIn posts and private messages, and Instagram posts and messages, started to emerge from attendees.

One, for example, was a private message from Miguel Rivera, who had driven 40 miles to this debut event, and hugged Darren twice at the end, “Great to see and speak with you at the ‘Let’s Talk Better Campaign Launch’. Thoroughly enjoyed the event and I think what you and Zee are doing with this campaign is absolutely BRILLIANT❗👍😊… I’m certainly going to do everything I can to support you both and get the word out there.” Miguel had suffered from depression for many years and has now emerged on the other side.

Emma Meheux messaged, “I think what you are doing with the Let’s Talk Better brand/ campaign is a fantastic idea and something like this really is needed I think! Massive well done to you and Zeenat for launching it so well!”

We felt strongly about the event, too. In this, Zeenat speaks for both of us, “The launch event really uplifted me and inspired me. What I’m doing is so important. I could feel the energy and the passion of the people for our topics. I’m overwhelmed with joy. The fact that people posted before we did? I’m gobsmacked with that. I was mesmerised by the fact that people talked and engaged and weren’t even on their phones! People there who had never spoken about some topics and they’re now thinking about sharing and moving forward in life. That was beautiful.”

We had this from Bromley-based charity CASPA – which provides support and enriching experiences to autistic/neurodivergent children, young people and their families – on LinkedIn:

“We want to say a huge Thank you to “Let’s Talk Better” who invited CASPA Sarah & Kim to their launch event on Friday at Copper Ceylon (gorgeous venue). They have chosen CASPA as their charity and we are so grateful. 💚 A fantastic initiative to Get people talking, inspire better conversations and help stop the stigma surrounding Mental health. In a world post covid, this is exactly what is needed! #CASPA #Charity #Bromley #Autismacceptance #mentalhealth”

Our donation link to CASPA is here.

Helayna Carole Jenkins from Bromley Council also posted on LinkedIn. Helayna’s role is ‘Helping to tackle Loneliness in the London Borough of Bromley’, working with Cllr Mike Botting, Bromley’s Loneliness Champion:

“Today I had the pleasure of attending a fantastic event in London Borough of Bromley launching the #letstalkbetter Campaign. The guest speakers, including the Mayor of Bromley Hannah Gray were incredibly poignant, thought provoking and brave. Conversations are crucial, especially around Taboo subjects which fester feelings of loneliness and social isolation regarding bullying, abuse, traumatic events, death, gender identity and culture… the list will forever go on.

“But opening up honestly without judgement, and speaking to those about your own experiences and asking about theirs, makes for a space which someone can be seen, and feel less alone. Conversations on matters that are tough to talk about are, but their impact is profound.

“I can’t wait to see what this campaign does. Lets keep the conversation going, and help tackle loneliness together.”

We held the event because we felt that people want and need better and different conversations, helping them to have better lives. They also need to have a catalyst and an opportunity to do that, and to be part of change.

Now, following the event, we don’t just feel this, we know it. In the About section of our website, we say that “We intend to change the world, one word at a time.” On Friday 24th February 2023, we saw exactly that beginning to happen. It was quite something.

For those who couldn’t make it, what did they miss?

We welcomed attendees to the restaurant, where we had a display including relevant books – notably ‘Let’s Talk’ by BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Nihal Arthenayake, won in our raffle by Emma Meheux; ‘Billy No Mates’ by Max Dickins; ‘Breaking The Silence’ by Perry Power; ‘Thirty Things I Love About Myself’ by Radhika Sanghani; and ‘Are You Really OK?’ by Stacey Dooley. Author of ‘The Alzheimer’s Diaries’, Susan Elkin, was present at the event, as was Tim Lees, from Chislehurst Life magazine, whose title was present near copies of Positive News magazine, and another local title, Life in Bromley magazine.

The launch kicked off with a short sketch between Darren and Zeenat as we acted out an example of shockingly bad (and not all that uncommon) conversational behaviour, then each of us spoke on what the Let’s Talk Better campaign is about, before we introduced our guest speakers, and musical performer (see Zeenat’s comments below). We held an interactive ‘Talking Topics’ section, asking small groups of attendees to speak together on topics from sexual abuse to (the lack of) positive news. These were very popular. Bringing the conversational hubbub to a close proved pleasingly difficult!

Zeenat said later on her LinkedIn, “What a fantastic morning yesterday at the Let’s Talk Better campaign launch. A truly inspiring event. 😁 Without all of you being there and showing your support for something that is so important and close to my heart and to Darren Weale, this event would have not happened.

“Many thanks to our chosen local Bromley charity CASPA Sarah Towler and @Kim Thursfield for coming along and telling us more about what you do.

“A big thank you to The Mayor of Bromley Cllr Hannah Gray and the Deputy Mayor’s Consort [Stephen Wells] for speaking at our event and sharing a personal story with us. 💕

“Many thanks to Mark📚📦 Browne for sharing his story and how he was so close to taking his own life and to Oliver Anderson (a young local Bromley musician) who spoke about his challenges with drugs and suicidal thoughts; Lee Thomas of Newman Flexible Workspace for helping us prep resources and giving us the space to prep and plan; Haran, owner of Copper Ceylon for hosting our event and serving up some delicious Sri Lankan Canapes. And it was great to meet Helayna Carole Jenkins- LBofB Principal loneliness Champion.

“Finally, an enormous gracias to everyone who attended to support us on this magical day!

“It was wonderful to have so many people from different businesses sharing a common ground of the importance that communication plays in #mentalhealth and #wellbeing. Your support, your words of inspiration, and your donations to CASPA are truly appreciated. We have raised so far, a total of £278 💝

“A big special thanks to 📸 Pete Bresser for taking photos of the event!I can’t wait to see them. 😀

“Understanding the value of #communicating and #listening in all areas of life, from politics, relationships, loneliness, suicide, and much more can have a huge impact on one’s mental wellbeing and how we relate to others. Please connect and follow as there is so much more, yet, to come… Watch this space!”

Oliver Anderson, who performed a very emotional song of his own composition, ‘Aftershock’, earned extra praise from Zeenat and a huge hug at the end, “I’m so pleased I invited Oliver. I had goosebumps. He was so articulate and shared so openly about his journey. That’s not easy.”

Zeenat said later, “A special thanks to our dear friends Chandra Sharma, Sarah Marsh-Collings, Sushma Raval, Jane Rogers, and Mark Browne who have been our tribe supporting us every step of the way. Even my cousin Eliz came all the way from Ealing.”

It was a pleasure for both of us to welcome every attendee, many from organisations doing good in the community, such as Charles Harmer, President of Bromley Rotary Club, Mercedes Yearley of Quest Soul Theatre, Myra Kinghorn, Chair of Bromley Arts Trust, Parisa Wright, Founder of Bromley’s Greener and Cleaner Hub, and Jane Rogers, Chair of the Beckenham Business Association.

Darren added, “I was overjoyed at how this first event went. As you can imagine, there is a lot more going on behind the scenes with this campaign, and that includes our receiving encouragement from a wide range of people, such as BBC Radio London presenter Kath Melandri, who said, “I think this is lovely, Let’s Talk is a beautiful campaign.” Similarly, psychotherapist Charlotte Fox Weber, who I quoted when I spoke at the launch, said in an email, ‘I’d be glad to help – let me know the next steps!’ People are really getting behind Let’s Talk Better.”

Cllr Hannah Gray, Mayor of Bromley, is very used to saying a few words at public events, and she said some telling ones here, notably, “We’re celebrating life and the power of ourselves, and to do a bit of good along the way.”

The most common question we have had since the launch is: when is the next event?

We plan to answer that soon. Let’s Talk Better in Bromley again, and beyond.

Zeenat Noorani and Darren Weale, 3rd March 2023