New Chairman of Rochford District Council Supports SECE Mind
Rochford District Council has recently welcomed its new Chairman Councillor, Jo McPherson, who has already made a meaningful impact by selecting South East and Central Essex Mind as one of her chosen charities for the year.
Councillor Jo McPherson: Leading with Compassion
Known for her dedication to community service and her proactive support of local causes, Councillor Jo McPherson brings a compassionate and inclusive vision to her mayoral term.
We’re delighted to share this heartening update from our local community. Her choice to support SECE Mind reflects a strong commitment to mental health and wellbeing – an issue that affects many individuals and families across Rochford and surrounding areas.
Councillor McPherson added,
“By working with the chosen charities, I hope to shine a light on men’s mental health and help expand support and activities for teenagers. These are issues that affect many people, often quietly. Through greater awareness and community support, I believe we can help more individuals feel understood, valued, and connected.”
Why SECE Mind?
SECE Mind provides mental health services across Southend, Castle Point, Rochford, Rayleigh and Chelmsford, and surrounding areas. From counselling for adults and young people, physical activity groups, peer support and supported housing for those experiencing mental health challenges.
Councillor McPherson’s partnership with the charity not only helps raise awareness about mental health issues but also reinforces the importance of community-driven support. By aligning her term with SECE Mind, she’s highlighting the vital role mental wellbeing plays in building a stronger, more resilient community.
Bringing Mental Health to the Forefront
This collaboration will help amplify SECE Mind’s message, drive fundraising efforts, and foster greater understanding of mental health in our local area. Focusing on two of her main areas of work with children and men’s mental health. It supports our mission to prevent ill health, reduce stigma and waiting lists and promote positive mental health. It’s an inspiring step forward and hopeful sign that mental health is being treated with seriousness and compassion it deserves.
Get involved
As SECE Mind continues its mission to support better mental health in South East and Central Essex, there are many ways you can help – from making a simple donation to volunteering your time or simply fundraising for our charity.
To learn more, visit our website or follow us on social media (you can find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Bluesky and Threads) and find out how you can contribute to a healthier, more connected Rochford.
Here’s to a year of impactful leadership and strengthened support for mental health in our community under Councillor McPherson’s guidance.
SECE Mind is a local independent mental health charity providing high quality services and training across Chelmsford, Castle Point, Rochford, Southend-on-Sea and South Woodham Ferrers. Our services include Counselling for adults and children, Supported Housing, Wellbeing Mentoring for young people, Mental Health Training and free Mental Health Signposting for anyone who needs it.
For more information about SECE Mind and our services visit us at secemind.org.uk
South East and Central Essex Mind is registered as a charity in England and Wales (1148451).