SOUTHAMPTON came together last week for its first-ever Mental Health Friendly Day with people across the city taking part in activities promoting positive mental health and social connectedness (July 8, 2026).
Coordinated by Southampton Mental Health Network and supported by Southampton City Council (SCC) and the NHS, the citywide initiative united organisations, groups, businesses and residents through events supporting wellbeing and strengthening community.
Sue Hayward, Chair of the charity’s Board of Trustees, who is also a Mental Health Educator and Trainer, said: “It was wonderful to see so many organisations, groups and individuals coming together to support mental health in our city and to boost social connectedness.
“There was something for everyone, whether that was attending a community event, joining an activity or simply taking time to connect with others over a cuppa in a Café.
“We were delighted by the support shown across Southampton. This was a truly citywide initiative. It demonstrated how important connection, community and kindness are to positive mental wellbeing. Even the simple act of saying ‘hello’ to someone new can make a big difference, and I was delighted with the number of people who said hello to me while I was out and about this week. It definitely felt like there was a very friendly vibe in our city.”
In the lead-up to the day, an awareness campaign ran on digital advertising screens on roadsides, street hubs, in libraries and at bus stops across Southampton. Facilitated by SCC, the campaign began on July 7 and will continue until July 20 to help raise awareness of positive mental health, social connectedness and how important it is to say hello to each other across the city, when appropriate and safe to do so, promoting the Network’s Power of Hello initiative.
A wide range of organisations took part in Southampton Mental Health Friendly Day, including SCC, Hampshire and Isle of Wight (HIOW) NHS Healthcare Trust, Aldermoor Community Farm, Atherley Bowls & Social Club, Round About Café, Sport In Mind, Unpaid Carers Support Southampton, Communicare In Southampton and KvLS Mental Health Support.
Cara Headon, Community Development Officer at Abri, who led the Round About Café event, said: “We’ve seen first-hand how powerful social connection can be for mental health and wellbeing. Many people first visit on their own, but through our activities and events they build lasting friendships and become part of a supportive community. That’s why we’re proud to support Southampton Mental Health Network’s Power of Hello campaign, because sometimes a simple hello can be the start of something genuinely life changing.”
Various activities took place across the city last week under the Southampton Mental Health Friendly Day umbrella, including wellbeing walks on the Common, a gardening workshop at Wickets Care Home, and art, drama and dance sessions, among many others. In addition, citywide sporting activities have also been taking place, offering further opportunities for residents to get involved, connect with others and stay active too.
Kirsty Bowden, Senior Development Officer (West Berkshire & Hampshire), Sport In Mind, said: “Sport in Mind is delighted to support Southampton Mental Health Network’s mental health friendly day in the way we know saves lives, through physical activity and social connection. Alongside our regular, weekly Yoga session at Northam Community Centre, we hosted a special ‘Try Pickleball’ session at Jubilee Sports Centre, University of Southampton.
“Sport in Mind sessions are much more than activities – they are a lifeline. They give people a safe, welcoming space to rebuild confidence, connect with others, and experience the proven mental health benefits of physical activity.”
Unpaid Carers Support Southampton also hosted an event for those who contribute enormously to the wellbeing of others, recognising the importance of ensuring they receive the support they need.
Debbie Hendry, Service Manager at Unpaid Carers Support Southampton, said: “Our event was about bringing carers together, reducing loneliness and isolation and supporting positive mental health.”
Activities took place throughout Southampton on the day itself and as part of a wider programme running across the surrounding week, giving people of all ages opportunities to connect, take part and support their mental wellbeing in positive and accessible ways.
Sue added: “Feeling connected to others is vital for positive mental health. By bringing together things happening across our city in our Social Connectedness Guide, we wanted to make it as easy as possible for people to get involved and feel part of their community.
“We already know there is so much excellent work taking place across Southampton to boost social connectedness. Southampton Mental Health Friendly Day provided a fantastic opportunity to highlight that work while encouraging even more people to take part.”
People can continue to discover activities through Southampton Mental Health Network’s website and its online Social Connectedness Guide. Find out more here: www.smhn.org.uk.
