Mind’s annual mental health awareness day, Time To Talk, serves as a reminder for us all – words save lives!

Talking works both ways. Whether we’re experienced mental distress or illness, perhaps hesitating to reach out and share thoughts; or we’re worried about someone else; communication offers relief, which is often immediate, and can save precious lives. Start the conversation today and take care to listen. Practical support can be just as important too. Help is also on hand if you’re having trouble coping.

This year’s Mind campaign offers a number of prompts for those wanting to create a safe space for a chat. You might choose a cup of tea or coffee (as above), a walk in the park, or an activity. Be sure to check in and check again, to be certain, better safe than sorry.

Creative projects can be a great way to engage in an open, inclusive and non-judgmental way. So perhaps you’ll join us, whatever your frame of mind, at the Mind Cambridge shop this Time to Talk Day, Thursday 5th February, between 12 noon and 1.00 pm. Have a browse around or come prepared with a thought to post in our window, everyone is welcome.

We’ll be taping your empowering ideas, mantras and comments about mental health to the window, as we did last year, and we’ll be on hand for chats too.

What’s more, we’ve invited upcoming local singer-songwriter, Ben B-Brown to animate the session. He’ll be sharing some of his own songs, as well as a couple of covers that you might recognise. The atmosphere will be more friendly living room than gig, and we’ll be providing materials for creating your window postings. Donations are always welcome, with every penny going to local mental health support.

“I am thrilled to get the chance to support Mind Cambridge’s event and the Time to Talk campaign, as mental health is extremely close to my heart. My life improved immeasurably once I started being more open with friends, family and even strangers. It’s a pleasure to help a charity and initiative that is encouraging the same.” Ben B-Brown, February 2026

We hope you’ll drop in on the day to hear Ben’s heartfelt songs and have a bit of creative fun – zero pressure, shoppers welcome too. You might also be interested in buying some raffle tickets. Giovanni’s Caffè and Pizzeria, the Mind shop’s friendly neighbours across the road, have donated a £15 meal – what better way to have a chat with a friend, colleague or relative?

Ben B-Brown is a Cambridge based singer-songwriter, weaving catchy melodies with honest and personal lyrics. Known for a relaxed acoustic style and a warm resonant voice, Ben is a regular at Cambridge open mics and recently performed at the Mill Road Winter Fair. This year, he’ll be featuring in the Cambridge band competition, seeking appreciative ears for his quiet and intimate songs. 

You can connect with Ben on Instagram as well as with us (link on this page) and Mind Cambridge. See you on Thursday? Can’t make it? The window display will be left up for a couple of days so pop in any time – the teapot and cup might have sold though ;).

With BIG thanks to Ben B-Brown for agreeing to perform on the day, Will Hill Design for creating another ace poster and the amazing Cambridge Printing.Com for unfailing pitch perfect print services. You guys rock! Here’s to the fabulous team at Mind Cambridge too, staff and volunteers, simply the best.