Residents across Birmingham are being invited to take part in a series of uplifting community events aimed at breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. 

The Feel the Rhythm, Beat the Stigma days, taking place at venues across Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust over the coming months, will bring together local people, service users, staff and community groups through music, creativity and conversation. 

Each event will feature a range of fun activities, information stalls and a specially formed choir set up by the organisers to help encourage open conversations about mental health and wellbeing in a welcoming and inclusive environment. 

Organised by the Community Engagement team, the events aim to challenge misconceptions around mental health while creating stronger connections within local communities. 

Beresford Dawkins, said: 

“Mental health affects all of us in some way, yet stigma can still prevent people from speaking openly or seeking support when they need it most. Feel the Rhythm, Beat the Stigma is about breaking down barriers, bringing communities together and showing that conversations about mental health can happen in positive, supportive and uplifting spaces.”  

He continued:

“Through music, creativity and shared experiences, we hope these events will help people feel seen, heard and understood.” 

The events are free to attend and open to all. 

Event Dates and Locations 

  • Saturday 13 June 2026 – Mary Seacole House 
  • Saturday 27 June 2026 – Endeavour Court 
  • Saturday 11 July 2026 – Maple Leaf 
  • Saturday 25 July 2026 – Small Heath Health Centre 

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet local mental health teams, community organisations and support services while enjoying performances and activities designed to promote inclusion, connection and wellbeing. 

The organisers hope the programme will encourage more people to talk openly about mental health and help create more compassionate and understanding communities across Birmingham and the surrounding areas. 

For further information, please contact: bsmhft.communityengagement@nhs.net