Solent Mind Social Media Fund-a-thon: A Unified Effort to Raise Awareness for Mental Health

By Bethany Harrison

On Wednesday, 25th September, Media Production students and staff at Solent University came together in a unique initiative to raise funds for Solent Mind, a local mental health charity, through a Social Media Fund-a-thon. This event not only raised vital support for mental health services but also provided an excellent opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in designing and implementing effective social media campaigns, preparing them for real-world challenges in the media industry.

Solent Mind: Supporting Mental Health in the Community

Solent Mind is a renowned mental health charity based in Southampton, committed to providing mental health services to the community. Their mission is to ensure that anyone experiencing a mental health problem gets the support and respect they need. Solent Mind offers a wide range of services, from crisis helplines and peer support groups to therapies and educational workshops aimed at promoting mental well-being. They are particularly dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues, challenging stigmas, and advocating for improved mental health care access.

The Social Media Fund-a-thon: A Practical Learning Experience

During this event, Media Production students worked in mixed-year groups, blending their knowledge and skills to create a series of impactful social media campaigns. With guidance from their teaching staff, they delved into exploring the branding, purpose, and messaging of Solent Mind. This involved discussions on the best social media approaches for fundraising, understanding their resources, and assigning roles within the teams to optimise efficiency.

Social Media Strategies and Engagement

A key element of the fund-a-thon was using Solent Media’s social media channels to engage a broader audience. Solent Media, the student-led platform, had an active presence across platforms like Instagram, Tiktok and Facebook. Currently the content is being rolled out on these channels. The campaigns included a variety of content types such as video messages, infographics, and stories that highlighted the importance of mental health awareness and the support Solent Mind provides.

A Week of Reflection and Collaboration

The session ended with each group sharing their ideas and any lessons learnt. This reflective period allowed students to collaborate and refine their approaches, learning from each other’s experiences. Not only did the event foster teamwork across year groups, but it also enabled participants to revisit key marketing concepts and apply them to real-world challenges.

A Portfolio Boost

Upon completion, students added a valuable project to their portfolios, showcasing their ability to create effective advocacy campaigns in the competitive charity sector. The Social Media Fund-a-thon was an exciting opportunity for students to practice their skills, connect with peers, and support a crucial cause in the community.

As mental health awareness continues to grow in importance, this initiative not only supported Solent Mind but also helped students become advocates for mental health, gaining experience in one of the most important sectors of modern media.

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