
At their communities in Cardiff and Sheffield, PLATFORM_ will be working closely with the local branches of Mind, the mental health charity, while in Glasgow and Edinburgh, the company is partnering with Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH). Together, these collaborations aim to raise both vital funds and public awareness for mental health through a series of events and initiatives hosted for PLATFORM_'s residents.
This partnership complements PLATFORM_'s broader programme of resident events. At a time when much of modern life is increasingly experienced online, these real-world moments of connection help foster a genuine sense of community and belonging, key pillars of the Nurturing Neighbourhoods strategy. From social gatherings to wellness-focused workshops, the events create shared experiences that support both mental wellbeing and neighbourly connection.
Across the wider PLATFORM_ portfolio, residents are coming together to support mental health and wellbeing through a variety of local initiatives. In Glasgow, the community will mark World Mental Health Day with a full day of activities including guided meditation, wellbeing resources, and a raffle in support of SAMH. In Cardiff, residents will take part in a Halloween Pub Quiz and a Christmas Gift Wrapping Booth, with all proceeds donated to Cardiff Mind. Meanwhile, Sheffield is hosting a November Steps Challenge, where residents can compete for prizes while raising funds for Sheffield Mind, followed by the “Balance the Pound” Challenge in December, a fun and interactive way to donate by attempting to balance a coin on a floating lemon at reception, with prizes for successful challengers and all proceeds going to charity. Together, these events highlight PLATFORM_'s commitment to fostering community connection and supporting mental wellbeing across all its neighbourhoods.
Jean-Marc Vandevivere, Chief Executive of PLATFORM_, said:
"Mental health is a vital part of thriving communities. Through these partnerships with Mind and SAMH, we're creating opportunities for our residents and neighbours to come together, share experiences, and contribute to a cause that touches so many lives. Nurturing Neighbourhoods is not just an ESG strategy, it's our commitment to making a positive difference where we live and work."
Chris Docherty, Account Manager at SAMH, said:
“We're delighted to be partnering with PLATFORM_ to support mental health in Scotland. Community is at the heart of everything we do at SAMH, and by working together we can create spaces where people feel connected, supported and understood. The events and fundraising taking place at PLATFORM_ will not only raise vital funds but also help open conversations around mental health, making a positive difference for residents and the wider community.”
James Padbury, Joint CEO at Cardiff Mind, added:
“We're so pleased to be working with PLATFORM_ in Cardiff. Together, we'll not only raise vital funds but also bring mental health into everyday conversations. Having the support of a housing provider that values wellbeing and community helps break down stigma and ensures more people know that help is available when they need it most.”
Margaret Lewis, CEO Sheffield Mind, added:
“We're thrilled to be working alongside PLATFORM_ to bring mental health to the forefront of community life. Every pound raised and every conversation started through this partnership helps break down stigma and brings us closer to a society where everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets the support they need. Together, we're building awareness, connection, and hope.”
The upcoming events will engage residents, and staff, encouraging participation in fun, inclusive activities while supporting the work these charities do to improve mental health services, reduce stigma, and provide essential support.
Through its actions to implement its Nurturing Neighbourhoods strategy, PLATFORM_ is reaffirming its dedication to building sustainable, supportive, and vibrant communities across the UK.