Alison's Story: 25 Lancashire Minds

Alison’s Story

“We need to talk about it.” Why trustee Alison Moore is speaking up for mental health in Lancashire

Vice Chair and Safeguarding Lead, Alison Moore, shares her personal motivations, her pride in Lancashire Mind and why breaking taboos around mental health and suicide is more important than ever.

From personal loss to purpose.

“I was inspired to be a trustee because, sadly, I lost my brother 14 years ago to suicide.”

For Alison, joining Lancashire Mind’s Board wasn’t just about giving her time, it was about honouring her brother’s memory and driving change through open, honest conversations about mental health.

“I was determined in the light of his death to be positive. I didn’t want mental health to be a taboo. My daughter was just seven at the time, and it was so important that mental health was something we could talk about freely and appropriately.” That commitment to openness and advocacy continues to shape everything Alison brings to her role.

Finding reward in real conversations.

“I love being a trustee. I love being able to encourage other trustees and the staff group who are absolutely amazing in what they do.”

Alison embraces the opportunity to challenge herself, learn new things and break down barriers, even if that means stepping out of her comfort zone. “It’s about putting myself in places I wouldn’t always be. Whether that’s being a bit silly at Mental Elf, or having good conversations about wellbeing – it’s all about making a positive difference.”

Stretching into leadership.

“Stepping up to be Vice Chair really has stretched me, but I want to do more.”

Alison is clear about her purpose in the role: to support the charity to grow, and to help others do the same. “I want to encourage people with different skills and experience to come along, be part of this, offer what they can and get so much from it too.”

Why Lancashire Mind’s Work Matters.

“Suicide is a real problem in Lancashire. It’s awful when it touches your life or your family – and it’s massively important that we talk about it.” Alison believes in celebrating good mental health, but not shying away from the hard truths. “It’s not okay that people are still struggling quietly, afraid to reach out, feeling like they just need to pull themselves together. That’s not okay… Together, with support, people can recover. They can heal. They can flourish. And I want to help make that happen.”

Facing the challenges head-on.

“The incidence of people in absolute crisis is far too high.” Alison is clear that progress has been made but there’s no room for complacency. “We’re not talking about it enough. We’re not offended enough. We’re not proactive enough. But in Lancashire Mind, we are trying – and I will always be part of that.”

Hopes for the next 25 years.

“I hope people in Lancashire will feel that we’re raising the bar in mental health and wellbeing.”

As Lancashire Mind celebrates 25 years, Alison has a clear vision for the future. “I want us to continue scratching at the itch; having difficult conversations, influencing the people who can make change, and being a credible voice in those rooms… Whether it’s politicians, the NHS, the county council or borough councils – I want us to be there, and I want us to make a real difference for people in Lancashire.”

Support for anyone affected by suicide.

Lancashire has the second highest suicide rate in the UK but together we can change this. Find out more about how you can take part in Orange Button scheme: 

Suicide prevention

If you’re having thoughts of suicide, self-harm, experiencing extreme anxiety, depression, or other mental health emergency, you are not alone, and help is available:

👉 Papyrus – 0800 068 4141 or Text: 88247
👉 SHOUT – text SHOUT to 85258 for crisis support
👉 CALM Suicide Support – 0800 58 58 58
👉 NHS Mental Health Access Line – non-emergency call 111