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Inspire
March 2026
Welcome to our March issue of Inspire
As the days get longer and things start growing again, Spring just makes everything feel a bit more possible. It’s a good excuse to get outside, get some fresh air, take a walk (a long one if my dog Minnie has anything to say about it!) and maybe take a moment to think about how you’re looking after yourself.
In this issue, we highlight how MFT is making a meaningful difference to mental wellbeing across Surrey, and how your support can help us go even further. From fundraising and donations to volunteering and raising awareness, there are many ways to get involved and be part of the positive impact we are creating together.
Have a read, and do get in touch if something inspires you.
Biba
Fundraising Officer
Meet Some Of Our Supporters
We are fortunate to receive fundraising support in a variety of ways. In this issue we meet sisters Georgie and Harriet, who are running The London Landmarks Half Marathon in April. We also hear from Sam, who along with other members of their Knit and Natter group, organised a knitted goods sale with proceeds coming to MFT.
Growing Wellbeing Together - Help Fill Our Basket!
This Spring, we’re inviting you to help fill our trolley and see how even a small donation can make a tangible difference to mental wellbeing in Surrey. From warm drinks at our Safe Haven to training for volunteers, every item represents real support for real people. Click below to see how you could help something meaningful grow.
Thank you!
We’d like to say a really heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported MFT since November 2025.
We’re so grateful to The Bookhams, Fetcham and Effingham Nursing Association Trust; Field Systems Designs Ltd; Hazel and her wonderful SoundBytes choir for their fundraising concert; Knit and Knatter; The Leatherhead Lions; The Leatherhead Horticultural Society; Mojos Book Club; The Shanly Foundation for supporting our Autism Peer Support Group; St George’s & St Giles Church; the students at Surrey University who organised an online Pilates fundraiser; and all our generous donors.
Your kindness, time and generosity truly mean a great deal to us. Thank you for helping us support our community – we couldn’t do it without you.
Corporate and Membership Group Support. How Does it Help Us and You?
Local businesses and membership groups play a vital role in helping charities like MFT make a real difference. Their support not only strengthens communities but also brings teams together and inspires purpose. Discover how partnerships like these are changing lives.
The Story Behind Our Second Peer Support Group in Elmbridge
Launched in 2024, our Hersham peer support group was created to meet growing local demand and has quickly become a lifeline for those who attend. Every Friday, it offers a welcoming space to connect, share experiences, and build confidence with professional support. Thanks to ongoing funding, the group continues to reduce isolation and foster a strong sense of belonging.
“MFT has been a lifeline for me and I don’t know how I’d have coped or started to get better without it”
MFT client
Mental Health in the UK
According to The Mental Health Foundation (June 2025 report), over 1 in 5 adults have a common mental health condition like anxiety or depression. That’s a 20% increase since 2014.
We know that there’s an increased demand for mental health services in the UK, especially since the pandemic. Perhaps this also reflects an improved awareness about asking for help.
What do you think?
Meet Some of Our Amazing Supporters Over The Years
Fancy taking on a challenge event?
Fundraise for MFT
Mental Health Tip
In this issue Nikki, our Community Connections Co-ordinator for Mole Valley, shares a mental wellbeing tip. She told us this: “When you’re struggling with your mental health, even simple decisions can feel exhausting. During these times, it’s not about doing more, it’s about using your energy wisely”.
Protect Your “Spoons”
Imagine you start each day with a certain number of “spoons,” and every task such as, getting dressed, making decisions, socializing or working, costs a spoon. When your spoons run out, so does your energy.
When mental health is low, you may simply have fewer spoons.
To make things easier, this could look like:
• Wearing a “go-to” outfit instead of choosing something new
• Eating simple, familiar meals
• Making a short to-do list with only 1–3 priorities
• Creating a basic daily routine you can follow on autopilot
• Giving yourself permission to postpone non-urgent plans.
When energy is low, simplify. Making life easier isn’t giving up, it’s being strategic with your wellbeing.
