Sutton's Solution to Blue Monday – Volunteer for Mental Well-being!

As we find ourselves in the middle of January, we often encounter what is known as "Blue Monday" – a day when the post-holiday blues, together with chilly weather and darker days, can leave many feeling a bit down. This serves as a good reminder to prioritise our own mental health and seek support if needed.

At Sutton Council, we understand how mental wellbeing can have a direct impact on your overall health. If you do need support, we have a number of support services for residents in Sutton - all the information you need can be found on the Sutton website.

Research has also highlighted the positive effects of volunteering on people’s mental health. Engaging in acts of kindness and giving back to our community can provide a sense of purpose, alleviate stress and reduce feelings of loneliness. It’s also fun and a good way of meeting new people.

I was delighted this week to see the positive effects of volunteering in action when Sutton was announced as the winner of the New Year's Day Parade competition. Our borough’s entry, Sutton ‘Rocks’ the World, was made possible through the hard work of a dedicated team of volunteers, as well as the many donations of equipment and time from local businesses and organisations. This is fantastic news for the Mayor of Sutton's charities this year who will now receive £15,000 to help local residents in need!  I’d like to say a big thank you to all those who helped to bring this together.

In Sutton, we are lucky to have a wide range of volunteering opportunities. Whether you choose to support local charities, assist with community events, or contribute to environmental initiatives, your involvement can make a positive impact and make a real difference. Take a look at Volunteer Centre Sutton and their Joyful January initiative for inspiration!

Councillor Ruth Dombey
Leader of the Council