Richmond Borough Mind exists to meet local mental health needs, providing individually tailored services so people can live full lives and be connected to other people in their communities. They raise awareness locally of the importance of mental health and recovery, and aim to reduce stigma and discrimination.

To mark half a century of operation, Richmond Borough Mind collected and preserved many of the histories and stories of local people who used its services during that time. They also explored how people’s experiences of mental ill health, and the public’s perception of it, have changed since the Mental Health Act of 1959.

Eight volunteers received oral history training. They carried out 62 interviews, chosen to reflect the wide range of people who have used the service and the diversity of their mental health needs.

Participants used the material collected, including photographs and artefacts, to make two films and an exhibition. The film was shown to local groups and schools throughout the borough to raise awareness of mental health in the community and to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions. The exhibition toured various popular local venues including Marble Hill House in Twickenham.