News & Blog

Focusing Minds team at the Ossett and Gawthorpe Maypole Parade

Focusing Minds Celebrates Community Spirit at Ossett and Gawthorpe Maypole Parade

Focusing Minds was proud to take part in the annual Ossett and Gawthorpe Maypole Parade. The event brought together local organisations, businesses and families. It was another fantastic celebration of one of the area’s longest-standing community traditions. As an Ossett-based Community Interest Company, we were delighted to get involved. The parade also gave us an opportunity to raise awareness of the support available through Focusing Minds. We provide mental health, wellbeing, counselling, SEND and personal development support across Ossett, Wakefield and the wider West Yorkshire area. The history of the Ossett and Gawthorpe Maypole Parade The Ossett and Gawthorpe Maypole… Read More »Focusing Minds Celebrates Community Spirit at Ossett and Gawthorpe Maypole Parade

Focusing Minds director Andy after completing his 60km sponsored treadmill walk

Andy Completes Grueling 60km Sponsored Treadmill Walk

Focusing Minds director Andy has successfully completed a gruelling 60km sponsored treadmill walk in Wakefield, raising an incredible £1,000 to support the organisation’s community-based work with children, young people and families. A Grueling 60km Sponsored Treadmill Walk Andy began the challenge early in the morning at Total Fitness in Wakefield, determined to complete the entire 60km distance in a single day. After walking continuously for just under 13 hours, Andy successfully reached his target and brought the demanding endurance challenge to an end. Completing a 60km sponsored treadmill walk required considerable physical and mental determination. The encouragement Andy received throughout… Read More »Andy Completes Grueling 60km Sponsored Treadmill Walk

The Importance of Staying Hydrated During the Summer

  • by

Summer in the UK may not always be tropical, but we do get our share of hot, sticky days – especially with heatwaves becoming more frequent. Whether you’re commuting in the sun, enjoying a picnic in the park, or just trying to survive a stuffy office or classroom, staying hydrated is more important than ever.

What to Do If You Don’t Get Your First Choice University Course

  • by

So, A-Level Results Day has come and gone – and you’ve just found out you haven’t been accepted into your first-choice university course. Whether it came as a shock or you had a feeling it might happen, it’s completely normal to feel disappointed, confused, or even a little panicked. But here’s the good news: this isn’t the end of your journey – it’s just a detour.

Power of Laughter: How Comedy and Jokes Boost Mental Health and Wellbeing

  • by

In an increasingly fast-paced world, mental health challenges have become more prevalent, affecting people of all ages in the UK. While there are many strategies to improve mental health, one of the most underrated yet powerful tools is humour. Comedy and jokes are not just sources of entertainment; they are essential elements that can significantly enhance mental wellbeing. Let’s explore how laughter can serve as a universal medicine, fostering emotional resilience and happiness across all age groups in the UK.

Breaking the Stigma Around Men’s Mental Health

  • by

Mental health issues do not discriminate by gender, yet societal norms have long imposed a silent burden on men, making it difficult for them to speak out. Historically, men have been expected to embody strength and stoicism, leading many to suppress their emotions and avoid seeking help. This blog will explore the historic stigma surrounding men’s mental health, emphasise the importance of encouraging young men and children to talk about their feelings early, and outline the support available in the UK today.