Do you live in Sheffield, Nottingham, Birmingham - or anywhere nearby? If so, please read on and help us fight the terrible physical health gap that means people with mental illness die up to 20 years younger.

But wherever you live, please give us your support in fighting this shameful situation right now - read on for more...

Fight the Physical Health Gap

People with mental illness on average die twenty years younger than the general population, often because physical symptoms are overlooked by doctors. People with mental illness tell us they aren't always taken seriously.

One woman complained of headaches for years, and was told it was part of her schizophrenia. It turned out to be a brain tumour. Someone else developed diabetes after medication side-effects weren't monitored. And there are many more cases like these.

Are you passionate about making sure that everyone with mental illness gets the health support they need? Join us at Rethink's free campaign training in:

• Sheffield - Friday 25 March
• Nottingham - Monday 28 March
• Birmingham - Wednesday 30 March

and get the knowledge and skills to campaign with confidence. We won’t abandon you after the training. There’ll be more support and telephone advice available throughout your involvement.

We need you. Sign up at www.rethink.org/ph - find out more by contacting campaigns@rethink.org or 020 7840 3147

It's Time To Talk

Time to Change will be launching a brand new campaign designed to end the silence about mental health, called 'It’s time to talk, it’s Time to Change', on March 21.

Visit the new website at www.time-to-change.org.uk

Speaking out...how?

Rethink has created a survey to find out what you think about the way we campaign and how we can support you better.

Participants will be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 voucher that can be spent at either our shop or Marks and Spencer. 

Please complete the survey online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/speakingout or request a hard copy by calling 020 7840 3147 or email campaigns@rethink.org

Rethink Chief Exec on the run

What a great start to fundraising in 2011 - our runners have gathered over £10,000 already this year, before the runs have begun. Matt - who sadly lost his brother last year, raised £1000 online in just one day – incredible. Thanks to all our amazing runners and supporters.

Not to be outdone, our very own Chief Executive, Paul Jenkins is running the Edinburgh Marathon on 22 May for Rethink. He has set a target of £5000 and you can help him achieve that by sponsoring him at www.justgiving.com/Paul-Jenkins2 Good luck Paul!

If you feel inspired to get involved in any of our fundraising runs this year we have a range of different options -  why not visit the Rethink events page?

Mental health first aid training

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the immediate care and help given to someone experiencing a mental health problem. Rethink's training will enable you to recognise the key signs and offer initial help and guidance - useful training for people in social care roles or other public-facing jobs.

Rethink's two day training session is based in central London and includes:

• comprehensive training materials
• certificate
• refreshments (including lunch).

Prices are from £65 per person, with dates currently available in May and June.

See www.rethink.org/mhfa for more details and how to book.