Every year on the 10th of October, communities across the globe come together to recognise World Mental Health Day. Here in Norfolk and Waveney, one local charity has created something a little different, and a lot more colourful. It’s called “Do Blue”, and it’s Norfolk and Waveney Mind’s bold, joyful annual celebration of solidarity, understanding, and action for better mental health.
This October, the charity is once again calling on everyone in the region to take part, and help turn Norfolk and Waveney blue in support of mental health for all.
“Do Blue” is Norfolk and Waveney Mind’s way of shining a light on mental health, raising vital funds, and tackling the stigma that too often prevents people from seeking help. The campaign is fun, creative, and full of heart. Whether you wear blue, bake blue, dye your hair, or light up your building in blue, there’s no wrong way to get involved. From glittery blue beards to window displays, every act makes a difference by sparking conversations and showing people that they’re not alone.
Norfolk and Waveney Mind is a local mental health charity working tirelessly to ensure that no one in the community has to face poor mental health alone. Though they are part of the national Mind network, they are completely independent, meaning every penny raised stays local, funding services that directly support people across Norfolk and Waveney.
The charity offers a wide range of support, including Talking Therapies, crisis intervention, suicide prevention and peer support. Mental health affects everyone, and Norfolk and Waveney Mind is here for anyone who needs them, whatever their circumstances.
The need for their services is growing. Their dedicated teams are doing all they can to meet this rising demand, but they can’t do it alone. That’s where “Do Blue” comes in, not just as a fundraiser, but as a powerful movement to raise awareness and help normalise conversations around mental health. And this year, they’re going even bigger.
On World Mental Health Day, Norfolk and Waveney Mind will host an unforgettable event in Norwich, a 5km Night Walk through the city, finishing with a vibrant silent disco. It’s not just a walk, it’s a celebration of community, hope, and resilience. Whether participants walk in memory of a loved one, to support a friend, or simply to show they care, every step helps light the way toward better mental health in the region.
The Night Walk starts at Chapelfield Gardens at 6.30pm, with registration from 5.30pm. The route will pass iconic Norwich landmarks, some lit up in blue, and will finish at The Forum,where the silent disco begins at 8pm. Tickets are £15 per person or £67.50 for a group of five, and each participant receives a Norfolk and Waveney Mind t-shirt and goodie bag. The charity suggests a fundraising target of £100 per person, but all support is welcome.
For full details and information on how to take part, readers can visit the Norfolk and
Waveney Mind website or contact their friendly fundraising team at
fundraising@norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk.
So, this October, Norfolk and Waveney Mind is asking us all to come together, to wear blue, bake blue, light up the night, and walk with purpose. Let’s show that this community stands united for better mental health, and that no one has to face it alone.
“Do Blue” for Norfolk and Waveney Mind. Because mental health matters, every day, for everyone.
