Diverse Minds Community is launching a dedicated parent and carer support group designed to provide a safe, supportive space for parents navigating the challenges of raising neurodivergent children. The launch event will take place on Friday 30 January 2026, from 10:00am to 11:30am, at Bentley Community Centre.

Each session is structured around themes identified by parents and carers themselves, offering practical support, shared understanding and opportunities to build balance and resilience. The group aims to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and empower parents by recognising the importance of their own mental health alongside their caring responsibilities.

The new group adds to the range of neurodiversity support already available across Walsall, complementing existing community-based projects supporting neurodivergent children, parents and families delivered by Mosaic CIC and Bread4Life, alongside other wellbeing initiatives (funded by the Council’s mental wellbeing team in Public Health) across the borough. 

The launch aligns with Parent Mental Health Day (30 January 2026), highlighting the vital role that parental wellbeing plays in strong family relationships and positive outcomes for children.

Walsall Council continues to work with local partners and community organisations to ensure residents have access to free, confidential mental health and wellbeing support across the borough.

“ Parents and carers play an essential role in supporting their children and it is vital that they have support for their own wellbeing too. The Diverse Minds Community group strengthens the range of support already available across Walsall, giving safe space to connect, share and feel understood. We want every parent to know they are not alone, and help is always within reach in our borough. “

Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing
Walsall Council

To find out more about Diverse Minds Community or attend the event, email support@diversemindscommunity.co.uk.

A range of other wellbeing support is available across Walsall.

Support for parents

• DadPad provides practical advice and guidance to help fathers navigate the challenges of parenthood and give their baby the best possible start in life. The DadPad app for Walsall can be downloaded onto your phone for free by visiting the DadPad webpage; select ‘Walsall’ from the drop-down list towards the top of the page, and the links will appear for the various online app stores. 
• Black Country CAMHS offers help to young people with complex, severe or enduring emotional and mental health problems. We support young people who are aged between 0-18 years of age and who are registered with a Black Country GP. A referral from a healthcare professional is required to access this service. Find out more on the Black Country NHS Foundation Trust website.

Online services for children and young people

• Kooth is a free, safe, and anonymous online platform where young people can access mental health support whenever they need it. Delivered in partnership with the NHS, Kooth is available to anyone between the ages of 10-18 and extends to 25 years old for carers and people with SEND.

Wider wellbeing support

• The Let’s Chat bus (Thrive Mobile Wellbeing Project) visits locations across Walsall, providing support on mental wellbeing, financial concerns, employment, housing and more. Residents can also complete the 8 Steps to Wellbeing plan. Find out more on the council website: Get support for your wellbeing | Walsall Council
• The Sanctuary Hub in Bloxwich, Walsall is open 7 days a week (Monday - Friday from 6pm-11pm and Saturday - Sunday from 12pm-11pm) for anyone who needs support outside of usual mental health service hours. 
• Free counselling services are also available through Mustard Seed CIC and Walsall Bereavement Support Service.
• For other support available and access to local services, visit Walsall Wellbeing Directory | Walsall Council.

If you need urgent help for your mental wellbeing, call 111 or visit the NHS 111 website and select the mental health option to speak to a trained professional. 

In an emergency or if you cannot keep yourself safe, dial 999 or go to A&E.