Stuart Low was a young Islington man who sadly took his own life in 1997 after failing to find the help he needed to cope with schizophrenia. His death prompted local people to form the Stuart Low Trust (SLT). Their aim was to create social therapeutic activities for vulnerable, local people.
One in four of us will experience a mental health problem at some point in our lives and the stigma around mental illness means people feel alone, ashamed and judged. For some people, this could bring a risk of withdrawal and suicidal ideation.
“I love SLT trips / walks / visits. These great visits have a positive effect on my mental health. Better than drugs or counselling. ” – Nature visit March 2024
The Stuart Low Trust exists to address these challenges. Founded in 1999 by Islington residents, the Stuart Low Trust (SLT) is a small charity dedicated to supporting adults in Islington who experience mental health challenges and social isolation. Benefitting 1,000 participants per year, they provide over 200 free, socially therapeutic art, nature and wellbeing activities. The activities aim to build participants’ confidence, skills and sense of community in a supportive, welcoming and non-judgemental environment.
“Recovering from severe anxiety episodes, I cannot begin to tell you how much confidence & happiness I have gained from SLT.” ~ Monday Meet-up January 2024
Image: The Stuart Low Trust nature walk
Organisations like these are facing huge strain, with both demand for services and running costs rising. Without you, vital projects like the The Stuart Low Trust couldn’t continue to provide essential points of connection and support for local people.
