Our Impact 2025-26
Independent Evaluation Findings from Tessa Willow Consultant
How we find out what people value
Every year we work with our independent evaluation partner Tessa Willow to find out how well we are meeting the needs and expectations of our service users. We do this by sharing an online survey asking people how Kindred Minds activity affects their mental health and wellbeing. Here are the findings of the survey.
Attending Kindred Minds has a positive effect on my mental health.
92%
I've met people through attending Kindred Minds and feel connected to others.
92%
Attending kindred minds helps me feel more confident.
76%
Kindred Minds allows me to be myself.
88%
Attending Kindred Minds helps me feel less anxious.
92%
Attending Kindred Minds improves my general wellbeing.
96%
Outcomes in our own words
We also asked people to say a few words about their experience of taking part in our programme of activities. We matched this feedback from the survey to show how we meet our intended outcomes
Improved mental health recovery and wellness through engaging with activities and peer support.
"Excellent support and a safe space to speak my mind with no judgement, which is exactly what I need."
"I always find myself coming out of any Kindred Minds groups a whole lot better than when I went in."
"There’s an inclusive environment and space."
"Participating in yoga helps to give a sense of calm and the breathing techniques we use help with anxiety. Tai Chi also helps with mindfulness."
"Thank you for being there for me while I was / am struggling with my mental health and wellbeing, you have really helped me through some hard times."
Reduced boredom and self-isolation through participation in the activity programme by building themselves a routine generating a sense of purpose, unity, and togetherness.
"The programme of (free) activities gives much needed structure to my week."
"Sometimes have to make myself go to activities as don’t feel like leaving the house or mixing with people but I’m glad I make myself as I feel better. Don’t know what I’d do if didn’t have KM."
"I haven’t been for a while but they always keep in touch with me and that is really appreciated."
"I meet other people who are struggling with their mental health. I feel less alone and isolated."
"For me it helps greatly to alleviate loneliness."
Increased energy levels, mood, and motivation through participation in the weekly activities.
"The exercise in chairs, yoga, the relaxation part and breathing exercises help both my mental and physical health and I’ve met some good people there."
"I can walk into yoga feeling yukky, but by the time I leave I feel so much better."
"Gives me somewhere to go, and a purpose."
"I feel in a good state of mind when attending."
New friendships and building of relationships through participation in activities.
"Really good for mental health and meeting new people."
"I have made good friends, especially in my classes and walking group."
"I’ve made some good friends through Kindred Minds who have had similar lived experiences. We understand the challenges we all face and we support each other."
Increased self-confidence resulting from participation in activities, development/application of creative techniques, through shared lived experience and peer support.
"Since going … I feel through talking out loud in a group about how we are feeling, it has helped me be more confident towards talking about my mental health."
"I do feel confident a lot more than I used to be."
"Still suffer with lack of confidence at times, but not in regular groups or outings."
"The peer support group has given me more confidence to speak out about my thoughts and feelings."
"Doing art with others is very enjoyable and being creative gives a sense of fulfilment and calm."
