Southampton residents are being encouraged to get involved with the charity Mind’s Time to Talk Day next month to help make talking about mental health part of everyday life.
Southampton Mental Health Network is supporting the awareness day, taking place on February 5, 2026, and is hoping lots of people, businesses and organisations join in too.
Chloe Naegeli, Administrator from Southampton Mental Health Network, says: “Time to Talk Day is a national awareness day led by the mental health charity Mind, which is supported locally by our member Solent Mind. It’s all about reminding everyone that talking openly about mental health can make a real difference. One simple conversation can help reduce stigma, improve wellbeing and remind people that they are not alone. Solent Mind and Southampton City Council have asked us to get behind the day and we’re delighted to do so.
“This year, we’re linking our support for Time to Talk Day with our citywide Power of Hello campaign, which champions everyday friendly interactions – a smile, a greeting or a chat – as powerful tools for building connection and improving mental health across our city.
“We’re encouraging organisations to designate welcoming spaces where people can stop, sit and talk on Time to Talk Day and beyond. These could include sofas or seating areas in cafés, workplaces, reception or communal areas and in community venues and libraries. We’re hoping businesses get involved too and create spaces for conversation. More information about the day and how to get involved, including materials and resources to use, is available here .”
Southampton Mental Health Network is hoping city-based businesses, voluntary organisations, public sector teams and community groups take part within any existing social events, coffee mornings or informal meet-ups they organise, or by offering a clearly marked space where people can pause and chat and sharing details of neighbourhood activities through its Social Connectedness Guide.
Chloe adds: “Time to Talk Day is about keeping conversations going – not just for one day, but all year round. By linking it with our recently launched Power of Hello campaign and our Social Connectedness Guide, we want to show how small, everyday interactions can build stronger, healthier communities. Southampton organisations have a vital role to play in making the city a friendly, open place where mental health conversations are welcomed.
“We already have a good range events on our website www.smhn.org.uk/whats_on/ and would like people to use these but would also like to add more and hear from more organisations, charities and businesses, whether they are Network members or not, who have something to add – because we’re better together.
“As a Network our role is to collaborate with our members and partners and offer a one-stop signposting resource via our website – we don’t offer activities or support ourselves. Anyone interested in adding something to our guide can fill in an online form Add to the SMHN Website – Fill out form or can email smhn@communicareinsouthampton.org.uk.
“A great example of how simple spaces can spark meaningful conversations is the ‘This Bench Was Made for Talking’ initiative, launched in February 2024, which highlights benches where people can sit and connect, including one in the city centre. You can find out more here.”
Southampton Mental Health Network’s activities build on actions from the Southampton Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy.
Southampton Mental Health Network became publicly active in 2019 and, with more than 100 member organisations and individuals involved in its development, became a charity in September 2022.
Working together, these organisations want to make Southampton a mental wellbeing friendly city, ensuring equality, diversity and inclusion for all.
Southampton Mental Health Network aims to create welcoming spaces for discussion, while being understanding and supportive of those living with mental health challenges.
Southampton Mental Health Network is encouraging everyone in the city to take part on February 5 by starting a conversation, checking in on someone, or simply saying hello.
Chloe concludes: “Together, we can help normalise talking about mental health and make Southampton a more connected city. While it’s generally safe to greet strangers in public spaces, always trust your instincts and be aware of your surroundings. Stay safe, keep it kind, and say hello!”
For more information about getting involved, or to promote an event through the Network via its free Social Connectedness Guide, please visit Southampton Mental Health Network’s website smhn.org.uk.
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