A mental health charity that supports people across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire is celebrating its diamond 60-year anniversary.
Response, which began as a small group of volunteers aiming to improve mental health care in Oxford, has grown into the region’s largest independent mental health and housing charity. It now supports people aged 11 and above, including those in later life, with tailored wellbeing programmes and supported accommodation.
Chief Executive Nicola Leavesley said: “It is with great pride that we celebrate our 60-year anniversary, allowing a wonderful opportunity to reflect on what the charity has achieved.
“Response delivers extensive vital care to those who need it most, enabling them to live life to the best of their potential.
“We reduce pressure on public services, but we now face record, urgent, demand for our services and the need to fundraise to help us support more people has never been greater.”
The charity works with local authorities and the NHS to support individuals with serious mental illness and those experiencing homelessness. It provides supported accommodation and helps young people develop emotional resilience.
Mrs Leavesley added: “We couldn’t help so many people without the unrelenting dedication of our fantastic team who always go the extra mile to deliver exceptional care and my thanks go to everyone who makes a difference.”
To mark the anniversary, Response is encouraging supporters to take part in its Dog Jog Virtual Challenge, where dog owners can walk, jog or run any distance to raise funds for the charity.
