Rethink
We were founded over 30 years ago to give a voice to people affected by severe mental illness and today, with over 8,300 members, we remain determined that this voice will continue to be heard. We help over 48,000 people every year through our services, support groups and by providing information on mental health problems. Our website receives almost 300,000 visitors every year.
Our aim is to make a practical and positive difference by providing hope and empowerment through effective services, information and support to all those who need us. People who use our services and their carers are at the heart of our vision and we believe that all those who experience severe mental illness are entitled to be treated with respect and as equal citizens. We carry out research which informs both our own and national mental health policy and actively campaign for change through greater awareness and understanding. And we are dedicated to creating a world where prejudice and discrimination are eliminated.
Mission statement
Working together to help everyone affected by severe mental illness recover a better quality of life.
Rethink's structure and funding
Rethink's work is overseen by the Board of Trustees, of whom the majority are carers and users. Rethink Northern Ireland is from 1st April 2009 a separate organisation.
Most of Rethink's funds come from statutory funders such as health authorities, but these are bolstered by sources including central government departments, the European Social Fund, trusts, companies and individuals. Rethink's income is currently over £41 million per year.
Rethink's commitment to quality, standards and principles
Rethink services are designed to display best practice and to be sensitive to local needs. Our quality strategy promotes and monitors consistency and coherence, and ensures that users' and funders' requirements are met. At the same time, Rethink's planning and monitoring systems aim to make all the services we provide as effective and efficient as possible, while encouraging continuous improvement.
In all its work, Rethink is committed to promoting equality, choice, dignity, respect and access to care and support.
As part of this commitment Rethink has signed up to The Charter for Employers who are Positive about Mental Health
Date Published: 29/04/09