Mental health campaign group ManxPACT has thanked supporters after what it described as a successful protest calling for improved mental health services and action to address the island’s suicide crisis.
In a statement following the protest outside of Tynwald yesterday (October 20), the group said it was “overwhelmed” by the turnout, with members of the public joining politicians and media representatives to highlight concerns around mental health support.
ManxPACT welcomed the attendance of politicians, including Chief Minister Chris Thomas, and said Health and Social Care Minister Claire Christian had invited representatives to discuss the group’s requests in more detail.
The organisation also thanked the small team of volunteers who helped arrange the demonstration, as well as those who attended despite their own struggles with depression, anxiety and other mental health challenges.
Reflecting on the event, ManxPACT said: “Yesterday was the face of mental health on the island, and we were heard.”
The group added that the protest showed the strength of its community, saying members had come together to live up to its name: Manx People Actioning Change Together.
