What’s your idea?

My idea is to create a social network that promotes positive well being for everyone. It is meant to help move away from the term ‘Mental Health’ which can stigmatic and disable people. The website could offer peer support and local networking inspiring people to get out and meet up in their local area to say go for a cup of tea together or a walk in the park.

The network could tackle the issues of isolation that often go hand-in-hand with ‘mental health issues’. The website could also offer support from professionals such as life coaches, counsellors and therapists via web cams for people who may not otherwise be able to access such therapeutic services.

What’s the social need or challenge your idea cold address?

To share common experiences of ‘mental health difficulties’ that 1 in 4 people experience (Mental Health Foundation).

From 1-5, what stage of development would you say your idea was in?

I’d say its at 1. I’ve worked within Well being for the last five years and am happy to see a shift in terminology and the strengthening of ideals of support networks and overall health over medication, but feel we still have a long way to go. I need support from geeks! To make this happen, I have ideas and passion but my technical ability peaks at updating my facebook status.

What can we do for you?

I definitely need all of these- A geek, mentor and funder! I suppose a geek first to see if the idea is possible, then a mentor and lastly a funder to really get it going!

If Social Innovation Camp is able to help push your idea forward, do you have the time or desire to take ownership of it?

I do.

This idea was submitted by Gemma Lewis-McAlpine.

Gemma is nearly finished her masters in Art Psychotherapy. She also works at a Well Being Centre as the Well Being Development Worker and is a qualified art and design teacher and counsellor.