Mental health in Islington

Islington has some of the highest levels of mental ill health in the UK, and the highest levels of depression in London. Here’s how we work to support mental health.

We have some of the highest levels of mental ill health in the UK, and the highest levels of depression in London.

Around 18,000 people in Islington are diagnosed with depression and related disorders. Approximately 3,750 are suffering with serious mental ill health. These are the highest rates in London. Recent NHS statistics suggest that Islington has more people treated under the mental health act than anywhere else in England.

Though its connections with mental health are complex, there is increasing consensus that loneliness has a negative impact on peoples’ mental health. In Islington, almost two fifths of people live alone. This is around 80,000 people.

Our partners work every day to do things that encourage mental wellbeing.

How we work to improve mental health

Improving mental health is part of the work of nearly all of our partners. Together, we give local people space to talk about issues, offering preventative and curative support.

Our local partners at The Brandon Centre have been working to support mental wellbeing in Islington for 50 years. We worked with them to establish Brandon Connect, a targeted programme working to support young adults experiencing complex mental health challenges.

Organisations like Body & Soul work with young people at risk of suicide and self-harm. And the team at Islington Mind help connect local families whose children have mental health needs.

As well as direct mental health support, our partners bridge help people feel connected to each other in so many ways. You can see the difference this makes near your home or business by using our map of giving.

Get in touch

We send out a monthly e-newsletter to supporters and other people who want to find out more about inspiring things happening in Islington. You can sign up to receive this.

You can also contact us any time using mail@islingtongiving.org.uk

Information sources

  • ‘State of Equalities in Islington: Annual Report 2019’, Islington Council, available here.
  • Islington Gazette, ‘Islington has highest use of mental health act, as shown by ‘shocking’ stats’, 28th November 2018, available here.
  • ‘The Lonely Society’, Mental Health Foundation, 2010, available here.
  • ‘Islington’s Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy: 2017-2020: Draft for consultation’, by Islington Council, available here.