UOK Hosts Inspiring Mental Health Talk on Community and Connection

Posted on 2 June 2025

Following from Mental Health Awareness Week, UOK hosted a Mental Health talk around the theme of Community at the Brighthelm Centre in the heart of Brighton. The event brought together community members, mental health professionals, and advocates for a unique conversation about vulnerability, connection, and the ripple effect of small acts of kindness. We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us.

Our Chief Executive Neil Blanchard said, “Working in mental health for 25 years now, I am very touched by the personal stories of people, and it’s a privilege to be hosting this community event.” 
“That’s what this evening is really about,” added Brooke Joyce, Head of Partnerships in Brighton and Hove, echoing this sentiment in her opening remarks. “Connection, community, and the power of lived experience.”

Daniel Wilsher, a multi-award-winning speaker, TEDx guest, and finalist on Channel 4’s The Piano, delivered a powerful talk that was moving, unexpected, and deeply personal. He shared stories from his life that touched on trauma, healing, and what it means to show up for others even when you’re still learning how to show up for yourself. It wasn’t polished or performative – it was real. And that’s what made it powerful. With honesty and just the right amount of humour, he helped us reflect on early experiences many of us carry but rarely name. He reminded us that unspoken feelings can become trauma, and that asking for support is not just brave, it’s essential.

At the heart of the evening was Daniel’s message: service isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about showing up, for ourselves, and for each other. Whether through a kind word, volunteering time, or listening without judgment, each act has the potential to ripple outward.

One of the attendees said:
“One thing that really stayed with me was Daniel’s message about the transformative nature of service – how acts of care, even small ones, ripple out in ways we often don’t realise. It was a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and connection. Thank you for your commitment to mental health and for creating spaces like this.”

As the lead provider of the UOK mental health network, we are proud to have supported this event.
A big thank you to everyone who joined us!