Scottish Government partners with radio host on campaign

A radio presenter has joined a Scottish Government campaign encouraging people to speak more openly about mental health.

The collaboration with broadcaster Katy Johnston has launched with a sign installed in Glasgow Queen Street station carrying the message “Voice it, we’re listening”, aimed at prompting conversations about mental wellbeing among commuters.

The partnership forms part of the Scottish Government’s Mind to Mind campaign, which encourages people to take the first steps in talking about how they are feeling.

Research from See Me, Scotland’s programme to tackle mental health stigma and discrimination, suggests more than a quarter of people avoid talking about mental health to prevent awkward conversations. One in five say fear of being judged stops them speaking openly.

The Mind to Mind campaign provides online resources designed to help people explore their mental wellbeing, including more than 30 short films featuring real experiences, alongside expert advice and guidance on where to find support.

Katy Johnston said she hoped the message would encourage people to open up about their feelings.

“I’m absolutely delighted to see my words up in Glasgow Queen Street, a place that means so much to me as I live in Glasgow and walk through the streets on my daily commute,” she said.

She added that the phrase reflects the role of radio in creating space for conversation and listening.

Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing Tom Arthur said the campaign aims to help people feel supported and encourage them to seek help when they need it.