Mental ill-health may be hidden, but the support we offer is always visible.
We are urging shoppers visiting the Eastgate Shopping Centre to think about mental health – and to remember that free, face-to-face support is just steps away.
We have installed three eye-catching displays in one of the busiest sections of the mall near Trespass, encouraging people to seek help if needed.
The installations also point visitors towards the Discovery College, our walk-in service based inside the centre next door to Next.
Demand for the service is rising. Last month, the college saw an average of 30 visits a day – its busiest period since opening in autumn 2024.
Our CEO David Brookfield said mental ill-health levels in the Highlands are still one of the highest in the country.
“We wanted to remind people that mental health can affect anyone, and that Centred is here for you, offering help and support in the most effective way, face-to-face, without a time limit or an appointment needed.
“We have created three installations in glass cabinets in one of the busiest sections of the Eastgate Shopping Centre to bring this message to life.
“We hope the displays resonate with Highlanders from all walks of life. We want to encourage people to come and visit our Discovery College to talk openly with our trained staff about their issues without stigma or judgement and before things reach crisis point.
“This service is free for all, breaking down any barriers for those who need our help and support.”
The three displays each carry a simple message:
This May Look Normal – A coat stand with everyday items highlights how mental ill-health isn’t always visible. Someone can look fine on the outside while struggling inside.
However, where to get support should be visible and it points anyone needing help with mental ill-health, substance abuse and addiction issues to the Discovery College.
Take a Seat – A chair and cup symbolise the power of sitting down and talking. It reinforces the importance of genuine, in-person support in a safe, non-clinical setting.
Everyone Has Baggage – A rucksack spilling out bills and paperwork reminds us that everyone carries burdens – and no one has to carry them alone.
Centred Scotland has supported people with mental ill-health since 1987. It’s pioneering Discovery College, the first in the Highlands, offers free, recovery-focused support.
The impact is clear. When people first attend, around one in six report below-average wellbeing. After a month or more, that drops to one in 20.
Some 86% of feedback comes from returning visitors, showing strong ongoing demand.
However, the college doesn’t receive any statutory funding, and without ongoing financial support through fundraising and corporate partners getting involved, the service will struggle to continue.
We’d love you to visit the displays, or if you can please donate to help continue this service, helping people in our communities on their journey to mental wellbeing.
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