Kingston Mental Health Carers' Forum (KMHCF) is a charity "run by carers for carers", offering information and advice to all those voluntarily supporting someone experiencing mental health difficulties.

KMHCF was formed 22 years ago when several Mental Health Carer Groups joined together in an effort to improve mental health services in the borough.

The Forum is run entirely by volunteers with lived experience of caring.

KMHCF became a Registered Charity in 2005.

Alan Moss, Roger Barnes, and Dr Jo Boxer are the current trustees.

KMHCF said: "Being run by those with lived experience, we fully understand that being a Carer can be a demanding and isolating experience and that obtaining information and support can be complicated and confusing, especially as services are always evolving.

"We will help you identify the assistance that you need, for information, support and training, and we have a monthly Peer Support Carers' Group. We offer 1:1 Advice sessions at Tolworth Hospital, on wards and in Community Services."

It continued: "We also give Carers the means to express their collective views and opinions directly to Health and Social Care Professionals who engage us as active members of relevant committees and strategy groups where we work constantly to develop a clear understanding of the needs of Carers within our community by campaigning on their behalf."

Credit: Kingston Mental Health Carers' Forum

The forum partners with other third-sector organisations.

Its regular newsletters will keep members informed on a wide range of topics, and its activities.

Membership with KMHCF is free and strictly confidential. 

Members can participate as much or as little as they feel able.

While KMHCF memberships are free, it welcomes donations from anyone who wishes to donate, and charitable funds granted by Kingston Charitable Foundation.

Alan Moss, Chairman and Funding Trustee said: "KMHCF is a lifeline for Kingston's unsung heroes; the family caregivers supporting loved ones with mental health challenges.

"As a trusted voice with lived experience, we break the isolation, provide empathetic support, and advocate for the recognition these devoted Carers deserve."

Alan Moss, Chairman and founding Trustee, has dedicated over 20 years to addressing the isolation and bewilderment faced by families impacted by mental health challenges. His steadfast commitment to this cause has been instrumental in establishing the organization as a trusted resource and advocate for those in need. (Credit: Alan Moss)

You can find out more about KMHCF on their website.