Created with the assistance of Suffolk Learning & Skills Council and East Suffolk MIND

Interviews with people in our society who are often prejudiced against.

One in four people will have a mental health problem at some time in their lives. However it is still largely a subject that is rarely spoken about – an issue best kept quiet about. This attitude creates an atmosphere of ignorance, prejudice and, quite often, fear founded on prejudices. Laws cannot change attitudes. Attitudes change when everyone is given an equal chance to voice their concerns and opinions.

The people interviewed talk frankly about their experiences and the problems they encounter. The interviews look at the prejudices people have, the stereotypes that have been created an where such opinions come from. Fact or fiction? They also talk openly about how they would like to see attitudes change.

All of those taking part were told – think of this as your programme, your chance to speak up about what's important to you. They are therefore all personal stories. Unique and individual. They will hopefully help open up closed doors, closed opportunities and most importantly closed minds. Some of their lives may be different but too many people think different also means wrong. Their stories will show just how wrong that attitude is.

DVD Content

The DVD is divided into separate interviews. Each interview can be played complete or you can select from a sub-menu that allows you to go directly to a particular issue covered by the interviewee. In addition, you also have the option of screening the interviews with sub titles.

Introduction
By East Suffolk MIND– defines what the main issues are.

Beryl – a school teacher who largely ignored early signs of what would eventually become a condition she has had to learn to live with. She has found that ‘giving' has helped her with her recovery.

Susan – a traumatic incident led to over 30 years of mental distress resulting in regular in-patient treatment. A past history of self-harm and compulsive disorder meant Susan relied heavily on support.

Alex – can still recall the exact time his breakdown occurred and the impact it had on his life. Has strong but valid opinions about how society currently views people with mental health problems.

Presentation Support

• A trainers guide covering all four sections. You will find this guide covers a range of ideas relating to Equality & Diversity and Learning Disabilities that can be adapted to support your own requirements.

• Transcript sheets of all four interviews. A simple resource that allows you easy access to the interview contents enabling you to quote from these with confidence.