Tag: stigma

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

Self-Injury Awareness Day: Shattering the Silence, Offering Hope

Posted on by darren192

Image caption: The butterfly represents transformation, hope & the Butterfly Project a movement where individuals draw butterflies on their arms to resist self-harm.

Every year on March 1st, Self-Injury Awareness Day (SIAD) serves as a global movement to shed light on the realities of self-harm, break the stigma surrounding it, and encourage open, compassionate conversations about mental health. Self-injury, also known as non-suicidal self-harm (NSSH) affects millions of people worldwide, yet it often remains misunderstood and shrouded in silence.

Understanding Self-Injury

Self-injury involves deliberately inflicting harm on oneself as a way to cope with emotional distress. Common methods include cutting, burning, scratching, or bruising. Contrary to common misconceptions, self-harm is not necessarily a suicide attempt; rather, it is often a way to express emotions, relieve tension, or regain a sense of control. However, those who self-harm may be at increased risk of suicidal thoughts and require emotional support and professional intervention.

Why Awareness Matters

Stigma and misunderstanding often prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. Self-Injury Awareness Day aims to:

  • Encourage open conversations about self-harm and mental health.
  • Educate people on the signs, causes, and support options.
  • Provide resources to those struggling and their loved ones.
  • Foster empathy rather than judgment, so individuals feel safe reaching out.

How to Raise Awareness and Show Support

There are several ways to contribute to Self-Injury Awareness Day and support those affected:

  • Wear an Orange Ribbon: The colour orange symbolises self-harm awareness. Wearing it can spark conversations and show solidarity.
  • Share Information: Utilise social media to spread facts, stories, and resources about self-injury.
  • Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about self-harm, its triggers, and recovery options to provide better support.
  • Engage in Supportive Conversations: If someone opens up to you, listen without judgment and encourage them to seek professional help.

Recognising the Signs of Self-Harm

If you’re worried about someone, look out for these signs:

  • Unexplained cuts, burns, bruises, or scars, especially on the arms, thighs, or torso.
  • Wearing long sleeves or pants even in warm weather.
  • Avoiding activities that expose skin.
  • Mood swings, withdrawal from friends and family, or increased secrecy.

Tips for Parents, Carers, and Educators

Supporting a child or young person struggling with self-harm can be challenging, but early intervention can make a significant difference. Here are some essential tips:

✅ Stay Calm & Open – Reacting with shock or anger can push the child away. Instead, create a safe, judgment-free space for them to talk.

✅ Listen Without Judgment – Encourage them to express their feelings without rushing to “fix” the problem.

✅ Use Positive Language – Avoid phrases like “Why are you doing this?” Instead, say “I’m here for you, and I want to help.”

✅ Encourage Professional Help – Suggest speaking to a school counsellor, GP, or mental health professional.

✅ Teach Healthy Coping Strategies – Help them explore alternative ways to express emotions, such as journaling, art, mindfulness, or exercise.

✅ Work With the School – If you’re an educator, liaise with pastoral care or safeguarding teams to ensure the right support is in place.

A Message of Hope

“I understand how difficult this can be—I’ve been there myself, and I know others who have struggled with self-harm. But please know that healing is possible, and there is hope for a future where self-pain is no longer the answer.”

Self-Injury Awareness Day is not just about acknowledging the issue—it’s about breaking the silence, fostering understanding, and offering hope. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that help is available, you are not alone, and healing is possible.

By raising awareness, supporting open conversations, and providing the right resources, we can work together to reduce stigma, promote mental wellbeing, and help those affected find healthier ways to cope.

UK Helplines and Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm, there are dedicated support services available:

  • YoungMinds Parents Helpline – 0808 802 5544 (Support for parents worried about a child)
  • Childline – 0800 1111 (Confidential support for children and young people)
  • The Mix – 0808 808 4994 (Support for under-25s)
  • Samaritans – 116 123 (Available 24/7 for anyone in distress)
  • LifeSIGNS – A leading self-harm support network providing guidance and peer support.
  • Harmless – Offers information, training, and direct support services for those affected by self-harm.

#LetsTalkBetter LetsListen #TheClarityCoach #HOPE #copingstrategies #rasieawareness #SelfInjuryAwarenessDay #BreakTheStigma #YouAreNotAlone #MentalHealthMatters

Author: Zeenat Noorani -The Clarity Coach I Director & Co-founder Let’s Talk Better C.I.C

Time To Talk 2025: Creating Space for Meaningful Conversations

Posted on by darren192

Every year, Time To Talk Day reminds us of the importance of open, honest conversations about mental health. The 6th of February is a day dedicated to breaking the stigma. It fosters understanding and empowers individuals to share their stories. People are also encouraged to listen to others.

What is Time To Talk Day?

Time To Talk Day was first launched in 2014. Mind and Rethink Mental Illness partnered with the Time to Change campaign. The goal was simple yet profound: to create a space where conversations about mental health are normalised and encouraged. By doing so, we can reduce the stigma and to ensure no one feels alone in their struggles.

Research consistently highlights the need for such initiatives. According to the Mental Health Foundation, 1 in 6 adults experiences a common mental health problem each week in England. YoungMinds reports that 1 in 6 children aged 5-16 has a probable mental health condition. These statistics underline the importance of creating environments where people feel safe to talk and seek support.

The Importance of Time To Talk

Mental health can affect every aspect of our lives. It influences our relationships and productivity. It also impacts our physical health and overall well-being. Time To Talk reminds us that mental health is just as important as physical health. Open conversations can:

  • Break Down Stigma: Talking openly about mental health helps challenge stereotypes and misconceptions.
  • Foster Connection: Sharing experiences can build trust and strengthen relationships.
  • Encourage Help-Seeking Behavior: People are more to seek help if they feel their struggles are understood and validated.

Practical Tips for Meaningful Conversations

Want to support someone’s mental health or start your own journey toward better mental well-being? Here are some strategies:

  1. Create a Safe Space: Find a quiet, comfortable place where the person feels at ease to open up.
  2. Practice Active Listening: Be present in the conversation, make eye contact, and avoid interrupting.
  3. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of “Are you okay?” try “How have you been feeling lately?”
  4. Avoid Judgment: Show empathy and refrain from offering quick fixes unless asked.
  5. Follow Up: Let the person know you’re there for them by checking in regularly.
  6. Share Your Own Story: If appropriate, sharing your experience can help normalize their feelings.

Let’s Talk Better C.I.C.: Supporting the Mental Well-Being of Communities and Opening up Conversations for All

As part of my mission to make a difference, Let’s Talk Better C.I.C. (LTB) a community interest company dedicated to improving mental health and well-being for children, young people, and adults. Through initiatives like the Let’s Talk Better campaign, we address key issues including anxiety, body image, identity, self-worth and suicide. We also focus on LGBTQ+, Neurodiversity, bullying, relationships, and many more important topics.

By providing workshops, resources, and open forums, Let’s Talk Better aims to:

  • Equip individuals with tools to manage their mental wellbeing.
  • Educate communities on the importance of empathy and understanding.
  • Create spaces for authentic, stigma-free conversations.

We’re proud to collaborate with schools, parents, and mental health professionals to inspire a healthier, more supportive world.

Mental Health Statistics: Why This Matters

Mental health struggles are widespread and often underestimated. Here are some eye-opening statistics:

  • Children and Young People: YoungMinds reported that 87% of young people said the cost-of-living crisis worsened their mental health.
  • Adults: Mind reports that 25% of people will experience a mental health problem in their lifetime.
  • Loneliness: A 2022 report by Campaign to End Loneliness revealed important findings. It showed that 45% of adults in the UK feel lonely occasionally, sometimes, or often.

These figures highlight the urgency of collective action to support mental well-being.

Resources and Hotlines

If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that help is available. Here are some valuable resources:

  • Samaritans: Call 116 123 for 24/7 support.
  • YoungMinds: Text YM to 85258 for free, 24/7 support from trained volunteers.
  • Mind: Call 0300 123 3393 for information and support.
  • Shout: Text SHOUT to 85258 for confidential support via text.
  • Childline: Call 0800 1111 for free, confidential support for young people under 19.
  • CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Call 0800 58 58 58 for support for men in crisis.

Join the Conversation

Time To Talk Day is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the power of talking and listening. Let’s consciously check in with ourselves and our loved ones. We should start those important conversations. We need to create a culture where everyone feels seen and heard.

If you’re struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether it’s to a friend, family member, professional, or organisations like Let’s Talk Better C.I.C. or The Clarity Coach – Zeenat Noorani, help is always within reach.

Let’s talk better, together. Let’s create a world where difficult conversations are prioritised. These conversations become easier. No one should feel alone in their journey.

Call to Action: If you want to collaborate, seek support, or learn more about Let’s Talk Better, please reach out. Feel free to contact me – The Clarity Coach. / Director and Co-founder of LTB.

Together, we can make a difference.

Author: Zeenat Noorani

The value of fiction and the arts

Posted on by darren192

The arts are one of the best sources of inspiration for talking better, for reducing stigmas and taboos, and helping humans to be better humans.

Theatre. Television. Radio. Cinema. Art. Dance. Comedy. Festivals. Music. Literature. Poetry. Sculpture. These are some of the ways we come together to express and experience the feelings, thoughts, and learning that we need to talk and live better.

One of the most longstanding examples of positive fiction as a radio drama is The Archers on BBC Radio 4, which has been broadcast since 1951, clocking up over 20,000 episodes.

Now, it has a dedicated official podcast, ‘The Archers Podcast‘ with Emma Freud, which is exploring the plots, the people, the history, the humour, and the legacy of the show. That greater look into the themes is a bonus from the point of view of Let’s Talk Better.

For in recent history the drama (without being as heavy in tone and content as many TV shows) has covered such topics as crime and punishment, alcoholism, coercive control and gaslighting, business failure, climate change and ecology and (unsurprisingly) changes in agriculture, aspects of LGBTQ+ relationships, and a lot more, typically packed into 6 packed episodes of 13 minutes every week (with an omnibus edition!). Above all, the show remains as entertaining as it does relevant, which is quite an achievement.

As our latest event nears, ‘Embrace Yourself: Talking Body Image Stigmas and Taboos’ on 29th November, we wonder to what extent The Archers has covered body image and eating disorders? Or will again? An internet search shows that the character Helen had anorexia as long ago as 2004, but as one of our speakers at the event, Jenny Tomei of Jenup, finds in schools here in the UK and recently in Brazil, body image is if anything accelerating as an issue and a source of harm in the lives of young people especially.

We will add to this post other examples of noteworthy offerings from the arts and media and creatives that contribute to our talking better, but it seems reasonable to start with a “a contemporary drama in a rural setting” that has been going now for over 70 years.

Where darkness lies, there is HOPE…

Posted on by darren192

Growing from strength to strength by bringing people together with shared visions of making a difference in opening up difficult conversations around taboos and stigmas, the Let’s Talk Better (LTB) themed event ‘The Last Taboo’, on 21st September 2023, couldn’t have gone any better. 

There are so many unspoken or feared topics which we seldom talk about, and that needs to change. LTB Founders Zeenat Noorani and Darren Weale chose to have this event focus on two taboo topics: Financial Distress, something that is affecting far too many people right now in the UK due to the cost-of-living crisis, and Suicide which has sadly been on the rise, more and more affecting young people.

Both, Zeenat and Darren were delighted with the turnout once again and the positive impact that this event made on those present.  News of what we are doing is spreading far and wide beyond the Borough of Bromley. It is only the start and there is much more to come. LTB celebrates its ‘One Year Anniversary’ on 22nd February 2024. Mark your diaries – you don’t want to miss this!

Back to our latest event. Firstly, thank you to Community House for the venue and all your support. Event compere and speaker Zeenat Noorani said, “We want to say a huge thank you to all those who attended, with special thanks to Simi Ghuman and Chanice Baugh of Radfield Home Care for sponsoring the event, and the amazing speakers who shared wonderful insights, as well as heartfelt personal stories that have impacted their mental wellbeing.

“Thank you to the Mayor of Bromley Cllr Mike Botting and MP Gareth Bacon for saying a few words and sharing some of your own personal insights. LTB is grateful for your support.”

It was wonderful to have Richard Cox of Richard Cox Wealth Management speak on Financial Distress and he gave some valuable tips on financial stress, how it happens, what looks like, and how to try to prevent it.

Suicide attempt survivor Nick Wilson drove all the way from Milton Keynes and met Zeenat for the first time in person (having been the first guest on her Mindset Matters Radio Show on Channel Radio). He spoke about how listening to lived experiences of mental health, disability and suicide helped to save his life and how he now helps people to share their own stories.

Neil Peters, Suicide Prevention Consultant, shared key information about identifying people with suicidal thoughts; how to offer support, listening tips, and what to say and do.  

Two touching videos were specially recorded for and shared at the event. One by Mike McCarthy, co-founder of the Baton of Hope suicide prevention campaign, who told us about the loss of his son, Ross.

The other was by Steve Phillip, fellow co-founder the Baton of Hope, and his own cause, The Jordan Legacy, spoke about losing his son Jordan to suicide. 

Zeenat spoke for the very first time in public about a part of her life where she fell pregnant and she almost took her own life. She reflected subsequently, “Vulnerability, though, and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they are never a weakness.”

We welcomed back singer-songwriter Oliver Anderson, who sang two beautiful and profound songs about toxic relationships, ‘Burning Leaves’ and ‘Surrender’.

It was an eventful day of emotions: highs, lows, moments of connection and moments of honest conversations, bringing a sense of relief to many. The day entailed some interactive activities, The Tree of Expression where attendees reflected on their thoughts and feelings, writing them on cut-out paper leaves to attach to the tree of that name. Inspired by Shauna Darling Robertson poetry for young people’s mental health, we all took part in contributing lines of verse to create a LTB cohort poem that will become our signature poem.

The Let’s Talk Better campaign aims to contribute towards creating a world without Taboos and Stigmas, where conversations are open on all topics. Join us on the 22nd of February 2024 for Let’s Talk Better’s One Year Anniversary, where light will be shed on how better conversations contribute to the hopes and successes of people’s lives.

Zeenat Noorani, 3 October 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