Open Mind shares pre-Christmas NSIP birthday celebrations.

7 December 2006

The National Social Inclusion Programme marked its second year of operation with an evening celebration on December 7th. Open Mind joined other invited guests and colleagues for a cocktail reception during which we heard success stories from high profile service users, Government ministers and members of the NSIP team. NSIP also launched an interactive database of good practice and information including information on some 450 projects. The annual report captured the substantial work achieved and progress made from both a national and regional perspective.

NSIP has been responsible for various publications including the Social Exclusion Unit's report on mental health and more recently - Reaching Out - an Action Plan on Social Exclusion by the Prime Minister's Strategy Unit identifying the challenges ahead.

The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the success and progress of the programme and also for the team to thank partners and colleagues for their support and commitment to the social inclusion agenda and beyond.

David Morris, Programme Lead, addressing guests with overview of NSIP's achievements

Notes for editors:

The Social Exclusion Unit published its report 'Mental Health and Social Exclusion' in June 2004. The report's immediate impact was directed at improving the lives of people with mental health problems by reducing or eliminating barriers to employment and wider social participation. It has great potential also to impact significantly across service areas, client populations and on the health, engagement and economic position of wider communities.

The National Social Inclusion Programme (NSIP) at NIMHE has brought together the work of government departments and other organisations in a concerted effort to challenge attitudes, to enable people to fulfill their aspirations and to significantly improve opportunities and outcomes for people with mental health problems.

For further information visit:
www.socialinclusion.org.uk

[back]