SIS has recently been working with Sussex Partnership NHS Trust (SPFT) on their How Are You Really Feeling? mental health resources which signpost people to appropriate support for their mental health and emotional wellbeing in their region of Sussex.
These leaflets and posters are available in 5 Community Languages and uploaded to the SIS translated resource libraries under the heading Mental Health – Arabic, Bengali, Farsi, Polish and Ukrainian.
We have shared the links with SIS Service Users, who we know to have mental health concerns, through SMS and email promotion.
Printed posters and leaflets can be provided on request so please contact vikki@sussexinterpreting.org.uk if you would like to receive some.
The original English language materials were developed by SPFT in 2024 using insight from surveys and questionnaires. The campaign resulted in 6% increase in people saying it was easy to find mental health support, and a 5% reduction in people using 999 or A&E for mental health issues.
SIS became involved in 2025 when SPFT wanted to improve accessibility for people who feel less confident using English. A focus group of SIS Linguists shared their professional experience and insights;
- Cultural beliefs and stigma: Mental Health can be seen as a personal weakness or a lack of resilience; “real” problems are viewed as physical rather than emotional. There is fear of being labelled “crazy”, concern about family reputation and shame, and distrust of formal systems.
- Language and communication barriers: Mental Health information is more effective when translated using every-day, non-clinical language, and promoted by trusted local community contacts.
The translated resources have been shaped by these insights;
- Messaging was included to normalise Mental Health using clear, everyday language.
- Culturally relevant visuals were used to reflect and resonate with the intended audiences.
- References were included about how to request interpreting support or find translated information on the SPFT website
- Clear and visible messages about confidentiality were included across all communications.
- Community influencers & local networks are being engaged with to encourage help-seeking.
If you have any feedback to share about the resources please contact spft.communications@nhs.net
