Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 starts today. Raj Patel, who has run the Market Post Office for 34 years, recently asked Market Times to highlight the unofficial role his business performs for NCGM tenants, and of course, we agreed.

Raj Patel - NCGM Postmaster 

“People use Post Offices as social purpose and although we are businesses, we are there to support local communities,” says Raj. “While first and foremost this is where the Market community comes to do their banking or buy things from the general store,” he adds, “over the years I have found that people need help with all sorts of issues. Obviously, I have been here a long time, everybody knows me and will come here for a chat, a friendly ear, some advice or help.

“I’m in the privileged position that I know everyone at every level. I know who’s doing what and where. So, for example, I’m often a good conduit for people looking for a job, as if there’s one going, I’m almost always aware of it and can point them in the right direction. I help migrant workers understand the British system, people paying bills, dealing with the DVLA or getting a passport. I have accumulated knowledge of most issues and am able to advise accordingly.”

There’s a deeper meaning to Raj’s presence though. Alongside his role as one of 12 directors of the National Federation of Sub Post Masters, part of which is to represent and protect colleagues across the entire Greater London area, Raj has been very actively involved in the ongoing Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry. He has also been trained as a Mental Health Advisor.

Raj says: “It’s impossible to stress how important this [mental health challenge] is. NHS statistics say that more than 21 million people contacted their mental health services in the year to April 2024. The figures are about 40% higher than they were before the pandemic. A majority of people will therefore have been affected by mental health in some way, whether directly or indirectly through the suffering of family or friends. However, too many people who do suffer with a common mental health problem do not seek or get treatment their condition needs.

“I’m here to help. Someone might have got divorced, be in trouble of some kind or be experiencing issues at work; they know they can talk to me one-to-one and it will go no further. If there are problems I can help with, then I know the right people to talk to. It’s been my unofficial role for many years and I like doing it, because I love all the people here.

“I just wanted to say that out loud, so anyone reading this who feels like they need someone to talk to is aware that I’m here for them and will help them in whatever way I can.”

Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) 2025 runs from today [May 12^th] to May 18th across the UK, with the central theme of “Community.” The annual event, led by the Mental Health Foundation since its inception in 2001, aims to elevate public consciousness about mental health issues and promote mental well-being for all.

The selection of “Community” as this year’s theme underscores the vital role that social connections and communal support play in mental health. Engaging with supportive communities can provide individuals with a sense of belonging, emotional backing, and practical assistance during challenging times. These interactions are often instrumental in fostering resilience and a shared sense of purpose, which are essential components of mental well-being.

A variety of activities and events will take place nationwide to celebrate the power and importance of community. These initiatives aim to educate the public on mental health issues, encourage open dialogues, and challenge the stigma often associated with mental health conditions. Resources and toolkits will be made available to assist individuals and organisations in participating effectively, promoting mentally healthy communities, and sharing inspiring stories from across the UK.

The significance of Mental Health Awareness Week extends beyond the event itself; it serves as a catalyst for ongoing conversations about mental health. By focusing on the theme of community, the 2025 MHAW aims to highlight how collective effort and mutual support can lead to improved mental health outcomes.

For more information, go to https://mentalhealth-uk.org/