The UK is in the midst of a mental health crisis, with workplaces often being the first place where early signs appear. Making mental health first aid mandatory will equip staff to offer support, reduce stigma, and create healthier environments.
Make mental health first aid mandatory in workplaces.
Use our tool to urge your MP to act now.
Don’t just take our word for it. Review the research behind the benefits of mental health first aid in workplaces.
The UK urgently needs more mental health professionals. The Labour Party pledged 8,500 additional staff, a critical step to ensure timely, effective care. Delays leave thousands without the help they need.
Demand the Labour Party deliver on their staffing promise.
Ask your MP to hold the Labour Party accountable.
Understand the evidence. See how the promised staffing levels would transform mental health care.
I’m Ben Holmes, the visionary behind our charity. Recently, I made a courageous leap from a successful corporate career to dedicate myself fully to my passion for helping others. With over 20 years of experience in fostering resilience and inclusivity, my journey is one of transformation and hope.
My drive to make a difference has always been at the core of who I am. After two decades of success in the corporate world, I decided to follow my heart and establish a charity dedicated to supporting those struggling with mental health challenges. This decision was fuelled by my personal experiences and a deep-seated belief in the power of community and empathy.
My commitment to mental health advocacy is rooted in my own journey of recovery from an eating disorder and addiction. As an Autistic and ADHD individual, I embrace my neurodiversity as a source of creativity and passion. I co-host The Guiding Light Podcast, where I explore the nuances of neurodivergence, wellness, and resilience, aiming to empower and inspire listeners through candid conversations and insightful interviews.
The charity’s mission is deeply personal to me. We purchased a star dedicated to a partner of the charity who is no longer with us, symbolizing the hope and guidance we strive to offer. I believe everyone can be a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to a brighter future for those in their darkest moments. My unwavering dedication and personal experiences make me a powerful advocate for change, promoting a culture of acceptance, diversity, and support.
At Guiding Light Mental Health Charity, our mission is to illuminate the often unseen struggles of those battling mental health challenges. We understand that the darkest moments can feel isolating and hopeless, but we believe that no one should suffer in silence. Our charity exists to bring light, support, and understanding to those who need it most, providing a beacon of hope in the face of overwhelming odds.
Explore the critical statistics underscoring the importance of our mission. Discover the costs incurred by the NHS due to eating disorders and the heart-breaking number of lives lost to suicide since our charity’s inception. These numbers fuel our dedication to providing hope and support for those struggling with mental health challenges.
Every person’s journey with mental health is unique, and we’re here to guide them through it, one step at a time. We dedicate ourselves to helping individuals find their way out of darkness, like a star guiding a lost traveller home. Whether through our support programs, community outreach, or personal stories of resilience, we strive to inspire hope and healing in every life we touch.
Our charity’s roots run deep, nurtured by personal experiences of struggle and recovery. Just like trees that grow stronger over time, our mission has flourished from a place of compassion and the desire to help others. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves a second chance, we provide the tools and support needed to help individuals overcome their challenges and grow into the best versions of themselves. Our story is one of redemption, and we’re here to help others write theirs.
Your beacon of hope and guidance through the challenging terrain of addiction and mental health. Tune in to hear personal stories, expert insights, and build a supportive community. Illuminate your path to recovery and well-being with inspiring narratives and evidence-based strategies. Together, we light the way to a brighter future, one step at a time.
Take a moment to read these heartfelt testimonials from individuals whose lives have been transformed by our charity’s support.

"Before finding this charity, I felt completely alone in my battle with addiction and mental health issues. Thanks to Ben and his dedicated team, I now have the support and resources I need to navigate my recovery. Their compassion and understanding have been a beacon of hope during my darkest times. I am eternally grateful for the positive impact they have had on my life."

"Struggling with an eating disorder and feeling misunderstood as an autistic individual, I was on the brink of giving up. This charity has provided me with invaluable support and a community that truly understands my struggles. Ben’s personal journey and openness have inspired me to embrace my own path to healing. I finally feel seen and empowered to continue my recovery."
We are here to assist you with any questions or concerns about our mission, services, or how you can get involved.
Whether you need support, want to volunteer, or have inquiries about our initiatives, we’re here to help.