York CVS

We do this by:

Bringing organisations together to discuss and challenge local issues through our events and voluntary sector forums.

Representing the sector at strategic board level to ensure the sector’s voice is heard.

Championing the sector by promoting what you do best – making a difference for individuals and their communities.

Alongside this we also host a number of social action projects including Time to Change York, Social Prescribing and Growing Green Spaces. We also host Health Watch York providing an opportunity for individuals to share their experience of the health and social care system here in York.

How does your organisation contribute to preventing suicide and supporting those affected by it?

Raising awareness and reducing stigma.

Providing direct face to face/over the phone support to individuals experiencing difficulties with their mental health.

Promoting the voice of individuals with lived experience.

Working in partnership with other organisations across the City including the Suicide prevention lead at the City of York Council.

Providing suicide prevention training to frontline staff within our organisation.

Support staff morale and wellbeing through peer support and training opportunities.

What are your current priorities?

Reduce stigma, promote mental health and wellbeing, encourage people to talk about mental health.

Supporting staff wellbeing in the workplace.

Supporting people with lived experience to have a voice and to be heard.

We have a focus on York employers to support them to commit to change how we think and act about mental health in the workplace.

What challenges are you currently facing?

Continued stigma associated with mental health that prevents people asking for help.

Mental health impact of Covid. The incredibly high demand on statutory and voluntary sector resources. Reviewing whether what is currently available fit for purpose and meeting need.

Lack of long-term reliable funding.