SUPPORTING

research on social, cultural and community assets and mental health

DEVELOPING

cross-disciplinary methodological approaches

NURTURING

the next generation of researchers in this field 

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IDENTIFYING

and removing barriers to access at individual, organisational and policy levels

ENABLING

new strategies and policies on community assets & mental health

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ENCOURAGING

greater participation and public engagement with community assets

OUR GOALS

Short term

There is greater connection between researchers, breaking down traditional disciplinary and asset-based silos

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Concise policy reports, briefs and resources relating to the impact of community assets on mental health are available to policy makers

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There is enhanced awareness of the impact of community assets for mental health amongst community and third-sector organisations

Medium term

Identified gaps in the evidence base are filled with new cross-disciplinary research

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The role of community assets in mental health is included in all mental health strategies and in the strategic priorities of community organisations

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Barriers to accessing community assets amongst those with mental illness are identified and removed

Long term

Research on community assets and mental health moves into the mainstream of mental health research

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There is strong partnership work between mental health services and community organisations including clear referral pathways

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There is greater and more balanced engagement with community assets amongst both mental health service users and the general public

OUR ACTIVITIES

MARCH has an ambitious programme of activities across the coming years, including:

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• Bringing together leaders in mental health and community assets research and facilitating the development of meaningful partnerships with policy makers, commissioners and third sector organisations

• Running a series of planned ‘core’ activities (roundtables, consultations and focus groups) to address identified research challenges 

• Distributing £280,000 of ‘plus’ funds to seed-fund new research projects and activities

• Hosting a rich portfolio of impact and engagement activities to translate research findings into policy and practice, and encourage greater public engagement with community assets

• Designing and delivering a training and support programme to develop cross-disciplinary skills and expertise amongst the next generation of researchers