World Mental Health Day is on Saturday 10 October 2026. The World Federation for Mental Health has chosen the theme “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change”.
For care teams, the theme is a useful reminder. The people we support, and our own colleagues, are the experts in their own experience. So real change starts with listening.
What listening well looks like
- Make time. Find a quiet moment and sit down, so the person knows you are not rushing.
- Let them lead. Ask open questions, such as “How have things been for you?”, and give them time to answer.
- Don’t rush to fix it. Often, being heard matters more than having the answers.
- Ask what would help. The person usually knows what makes a difference to them.
- Follow up. Record what you have heard, share concerns with a senior colleague and check back in.
Lived experience in everyday care
Listening also shapes how care is planned. Write care plans with the person, in their own words where you can. Involve them in decisions about their support, and ask what has helped before. When people see their views change things, they are more likely to speak up again.
Looking after your team
Care work can be emotionally demanding. Regular check-ins and supervision give colleagues space to talk, and knowing where to get support makes it easier to ask. Our Margaret’s story shows how much staying present can mean.
When someone needs help now
The NHS says to call 111 and select the mental health option for urgent help. You can call Samaritans free on 116 123 at any time, and under-19s can call Childline on 0800 1111. If someone’s life is at risk, or they cannot keep themselves safe, call 999 or go to A&E.
How training helps
The right training gives your team the confidence to notice, listen and respond. Courses that help include:
- Mental Health First Aid (two days): recognising and responding when someone is struggling
- Mental Health Awareness (half day): a grounding in mental health for the whole team
- Wellbeing (half day): looking after your own wellbeing at work
- Stress at Work (half day): recognising and managing stress
Free resources
Download, print and share these with your team.
Sources: World Federation for Mental Health, World Mental Health Day; NHS, Where to get urgent help for mental health. Correct as of 21 September 2026.
