Moray, Scotland – A major new initiative aimed at transforming mental health research and community well-being will launch with a special event on Tuesday, 25th March 2025, in Elgin.
The Collaboration for Mental Wealth in Moray is a Community Research Network (CRN) hosted by Moray Wellbeing Hub that brings together local people and organisations to co-create solutions that truly reflect the needs of Moray’s communities.
This initiative is made possible through £1M funding from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Young Foundation, which are supporting innovative community-led research projects that address social challenges. Their investment ensures that research is shaped by and for the people who need it most, and the network in Moray is the only network in Scotland funded as part of 9 innovative networks across the UK.
This initiative is a collaborative effort involving key partners such as the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI) Rural Centre of Excellence, Moray Art Development Engagement (MADE), tsiMORAY, Science Ceilidh, Arrows (a Quarriers service), and The Three Kings Cullen Association. These organisations have come together to drive change and reframe mental health with Moray’s communities.
Heidi Tweedie, Social Movement and Enterprise Lead, Moray Wellbeing Hub CIC, said:
“As community members with our own experiences of life challenges, we’re striving to ensure community voices are heard in deciding how local change happens – and in a way that benefits ourselves and those we care about. This event provides an opportunity for anyone intrigued by the term ‘mental wealth’ or by the idea of community-led research to come along. You don't need any prior experience, and if you face a barrier in attending, let us know. this includes young people who are very welcome.”
For those unable to attend in person, the event will have elements recorded and made available on the website. All interested are encouraged to sign up to the Collaboration for Mental Wealth in Moray mailing list for updates.
Event Highlights
Date & time: 25 March 2025, 18:30
Location: Laichmoray Hotel
The event is free, but registration is essential: https://mentalwealthmoray.org.uk/
The event will introduce the network’s mission, share key findings from community engagement activities, and explore opportunities for collaboration. Attendees will hear about opportunities, including becoming peer-researchers, to shape research that directly benefits their community and well-being.
Why This Matters
Community-led research: Shaping mental health solutions based on real-life experiences.
Collaboration & partnership: Bringing together diverse voices for greater impact.
Turning research into action: Ensuring findings lead to meaningful change in policies and services.
The launch is an opportunity for everyone, whether individuals, groups or local organisations, to get involved in shaping the future of mental wellbeing in Moray.
For more information, to register for the event, or to join the Community Research Network, visit: https://mentalwealthmoray.org.uk
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