Vote for ‘Hold Out A Hand’ to win in the Charity Film Awards

Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health Team, commissioned the powerful short film with Rural Media to stimulate conversations about mental health and suicide within the Gypsy and Traveller community. 

The film aims to raise awareness and encourage people from this community to reach out and engage with mental health and suicide prevention support services.

There is often a considerable stigma around discussing mental health issues, particularly within the traveller community. As part of the research for the film, a report was produced detailing personal stories, barriers and recommendations around engaging with traveller communities on mental health and suicide.

The film was launched in July 2022 and was positively received by the community. Voters can watch the film and download the research from the Traveller’s Times website 

Councillor Karen May, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Worcestershire County Council said: “I am extremely proud that Hold Out A Hand is a finalist and has made it to the public vote in the Charity Film Awards. 

“I would encourage people to vote and help raise the profile of suicide prevention and increase opportunities for help in our Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Communities.”

Voting closes on 10 March. To vote simply click on the yellow ‘vote’ button.

Read and share the new government guidelines for health & care professionals on improving Roma health and care professionals. 

Anyone struggling to cope with mental health issues and needing urgent help can call Herefordshire & Worcestershire’s Mental Health Helpline on 0808 196 9127. 

If you have had mental health training which includes suicide prevention and want to get involved go to the Now We’re Talking website to apply for your Orange Button.