The permanent Mental Health Champion was appointed by the Minister for Health, Robin Swann, as someone who will be an advocate for change to improve services in NI and be the voice for those with lived experience of mental ill health to inform change.
Who is the Mental Health Champion?
Professor Siobhan O’Neill was appointed in September 2021, as Northern Ireland’s first permanent Mental Health Champion. As Professor of Mental Health Sciences at Ulster University, Siobhan is one of Northern Ireland’s leading experts in the field of mental health, known for her active and passionate involvement in suicide prevention.
Siobhan has been an advocate for mental health at both public and governmental levels. With over 21 years’ research experience, her goal is to utilise research to evolve the narrative around mental ill health and inform future research and policy for the benefit of the next generation.
Siobhan continues in her role as a University Professor, alongside her role as Mental Health Champion, believing that her work as an academic and scientist enables her to build upon her academic expertise and translate her research into practice, whilst remaining independent. In this role she is a Government advisor and is involved in shaping the delivery of mental health and wellbeing initiatives across Government Departments.
Why do we need a Mental Health Champion?
We are at the beginning of transformational change to mental health services, with the implementation of the Mental Health Strategy. The Strategy consists of 35 actions to reform mental health services and to further early intervention and prevention.
The Mental Health Champion’s priority is to ensure that actions in the Mental Health Strategy are implemented, challenging inconsistences and guiding those who are designing the services, ensuring that the perspectives of people with lived experience of mental illness and their carers shape service design and delivery.
As Mental Health Champion, Siobhan has been meeting those affected by mental ill health and those delivering services to gain an understanding of what needs to change. She has been working with key advocacy groups and campaigners to ensure that services meet the needs of people on the ground.
Now that the Mental Health Champion is in place, we have a voice for those working with, and living with, mental health issues. An individual to challenge Government, offer informed independent scrutiny, and collectively work hand in hand with the Government and other organisations to promote wellbeing. Plus, ultimately support the delivery of excellent mental health services for the population of Northern Ireland.
What do you feel is the biggest priority of your role?
Why have you been chosen to be the first ever Mental Health Champion?
What is currently happening with mental health services in NI?
What value does a University Professor bring to the role of the Mental Health Champion?
Why do you think NI needs a Mental Health Champion?
How can we prevent mental ill health or mental illness?
Has wellbeing and mental health become more of a priority for children and young people in recent years?
What are the biggest issues affecting young people today?
You can also check out our three part series with Crisis Cafe, where Professor O'Neill answers questions from young people about their mental health services here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPZ2lcpMfrw