The theme of the 2023 festival was ‘Mental Health for All- Promoting Inclusivity and Connection’ and took place at the Perth Concert Hall on the 19th and 20th August 2023. In 2023, we very much wanted to convey the message that mental health support doesn’t have to be prescriptive, and everyone should have the opportunity to tailor it to their own individual needs. What works for one person, may not work for another.

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Over the course of the weekend, there were approximately 12 different workshops available to choose from as well as additional activities such as a silent disco and arts and crafts tables. The festival welcomed anyone and everyone, regardless of whether you were just looking to get some tips on improving your wellbeing or were really struggling with a mental health condition. The aim was to provide an inclusive space where people of all ages and backgrounds feel welcome. There is a lot of support available in the community but often people are unaware of what it exists and how to access it. As part of the festival people had the opportunity to find out more about the mental health support that is available in the area and had a chance to speak to some of the organisations who provide it. Best of all, the festival and all the activities on offer were completely FREE for everyone. 

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Thanks to funding from Stagecoach and Paths for All, we were able to provide 500 FREE East Scotland Dayriders to help people travel to and from the Festival event. Claim your ticket here:  https://festival-bus.eventbrite.co.uk

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In the lead up to the festival, we also put on a programme of ‘Connection Cafes’ across Perthshire. The aim of the connection cafes is to give people who are looking for support an opportunity to meet with various organisations and agencies in a safe environment and find out about the services they offer. The sessions will be very informal and most likely invovle cake! To find a local connection cafe near you visit here.​

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*Certain workshops/talks have limited spaces and are therefore not guaranteed. Please arrive in plenty of time to get a space.

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