About our groups

Rethink Mental Illness was founded over 30 years ago to give a voice to people affected by severe mental illness and today, with over 10,000 members, we remain determined that this voice will continue to be heard.  We help more than 48,000 people every year through our services, support groups and by providing information on mental health problems. 

There are 149 registered groups across England.

From the 2011 Group Questionnaire:

  • 5,697 newsletters were sent out from groups
  • 4,275 people attended a group
  • 2,869 people were in telephone contact with a group
  • 1,023 people were in email contact with their local group. 

Find out what support groups there are in your local area using our search for groups page.

The group is sympathetic and a non-judgmental listening space. I feel I am among people who care about me and really understand. I get help with information and we share ideas on how to cope.

0300 5000 927 & advice@rethink.org - our advice team provide mental health information & advice on practical problems from Monday to Friday 10am – 1pm.

What is a Rethink Mental Illness group?

A group of people with a common purpose

“To work together to help everyone affected by severe mental illness recover a better quality of life”. 

Rethink Mental Illness Groups take many forms depending on the needs of the Group members.  Groups can be for Carers only, for people who have lived experience of mental illness or for both.

Activities vary and can include a focus on:

  • Self help
  • Information
  • Peer support 
  • Campaigning 
  • Fundraising 

Many groups include all of these.  Group meetings vary; some weekly, some monthly and others support each other by telephone and internet.

How are groups supported by Rethink Mental Illness?

All groups are registered by the appropriate Regional Committee and many are set up and coordinated by active Rethink Mental Illness members.

Groups are supported by linking with local Rethink Mental Illness services (where possible) and also by Rethink Mental Illness's Membership and Participation Managers.

What happens if there isn't a group in my area?

Why not set one up?  We can help.

Further information

For further information about our groups please contact 01823 365 327, or email groups@rethink.org. Alternatively, please write to: Rethink Mental Illness Groups, Paul's House, Tower Street, Taunton Somerset TA1 4BH.

If you need practical advice on any aspect of mental illness contact our advice & information service.