Speaker's Charter

We are a group of experienced speakers providing the highest quality, evidence-based presentations on a range of topics related to mental health. These include anxiety and stress management, addiction, body image, eating disorders, self-harm and suicide prevention. We each have a minimum of three years working in mental health. Additionally, we attend a minimum of two courses each year for our continuing professional development. We understand, when discussing sensitive topics with potentially vulnerable people, how important it is to strike an appropriate balance, use up-to-date research and appropriate humour. We have therefore compiled the following charter, outlining our practices: WE WILL: - Be truthful regarding the extent of our expertise. Some of us are experts through experience and others are professionals working in the field. If we are not in a position to comment on a certain topic, or answer a particular question, we will say so. - Neither glamorise nor stigmatise mental illness: It is important people struggling with mental health issues see that recovery is possible and that, with the right support, success and happiness are possible following diagnosis. However, we will emphasise that this is an ongoing process. - Use reputable sources for statistics and research and ensure we regularly update our presentations in keeping with the latest findings. - Signpost to safe sources of further support and advice after our presentations. These sources should be carefully monitored, evidence-based and unbiased. - Use appropriate language and imagery, as recommended by leading mental health charities. These practises are summarised in the Mental Health Media Charter, of which all members of the Speakers Charter are ambassadors (see https://www.natashadevon.com/the-mental-health-media-charter for more details).