Specialist Punjabi Mental Health Service

Normalise conversations associated with mental health in under-represented communities - Ensure that no one suffers alone

Smiling children
Rochdale CouncilNational Lottery Community FundMHFAHealth Innovation ManchesterComic ReliefCo-opAutotrader
What We Are Doing

We Are In A Mission To Help The Helpless

Mental Health First Aid Training

We provide culturally sensitive mental health first aid training for the Punjabi community, equipping individuals with essential skills to recognize and respond to mental health challenges within their families and communities.

Soup Kitchen

We operate a community soup kitchen that serves traditional Punjabi meals while creating a safe space for individuals to connect, share their experiences, and access mental health resources in a familiar and welcoming environment.

Community Events

Through regular cultural celebrations, workshops, and gatherings, we strengthen community bonds while raising awareness about mental health, reducing stigma, and creating opportunities for peer support within the Punjabi community.

About Our Foundation

We Are On A Mission To Ensure No One Suffers Alone

Since 2006, Awakening Minds Practice has been a beacon of hope in Rochdale's heart, providing specialist mental health support to Punjabi-speaking communities. Born from a social movement initiated by the community for the community, we've dedicated ourselves to breaking down barriers and normalising conversations around mental health in under-represented communities.

As a non-profit community interest company, we believe in the power of connection and understanding. Through our evidence-based Mental Health First Aid Training in Punjabi, Urdu, and English, weekly soup kitchens, and comprehensive emotional support services, we're building bridges where isolation once existed. From influencing policy to participating in clinical research, every action we take is rooted in our unwavering commitment to ensuring that no one in our community faces their struggles alone.

About Us
About Us
What We Are Boing

We Arrange Many Social Events For Charity Donations

Our organization is committed to making a positive impact through a variety of social events focused on charity, education, and community support.

Donation is Hope

Join us for a meaningful evening dedicated to bringing hope to those in need through community donations.

A hand for Children

Supporting underprivileged children with educational resources and essential care through community action.

Help for Children

Creating opportunities for children to thrive through healthcare, education, and nutritional support programs.

Community Food Drive

Gathering essential food items to support local families facing food insecurity in our community.

Mental Health Awareness

Promoting mental wellness and breaking stigma through education, support, and community conversations.

Skills Development Workshop

Empowering individuals with practical skills training to enhance employment opportunities and personal growth.

What We Are Doing

Our Expert Volunteer Always Ready

Nasrine Akhtar

Nasrine Akhtar

Founder

Gulnar Vagherani

Gulnar Vagherani

Board Member

Fehmina Parveen

Fehmina Parveen

HR Manager

Ruman Shakil

Ruman Shakil

Admin

Community Stories

Stories of Hope & Transformation

Hear from our community members, volunteers, and service users about how Awakening Minds has made a difference in their lives and the lives of others in Rochdale.

Awakening Minds helped me when I was at my lowest point. The support I received in Punjabi made all the difference - I finally felt understood. They didn't just help me, they helped my whole family understand mental health better.

Amrit Kaur
Community Member, Rochdale

As a volunteer, I've seen firsthand how this organization transforms lives. The weekly soup kitchen isn't just about food - it's about creating a safe space where people can talk openly about their struggles without fear of judgment.

Sarah Johnson
Volunteer & Mental Health Advocate

The Mental Health First Aid training I received through Awakening Minds gave me the confidence to support my colleagues at work. Now I can recognize when someone is struggling and know how to help them get the support they need.

Rajinder Singh
Local Business Owner

Latest Insights

Mental Health Resources & Community Stories

Discover insights, stories, and resources for mental health awareness and community support

Mental Health Awareness in Punjabi Communities
15Jan
DAK

Dr. Amrit Kaur

Mental Health Awareness in Punjabi Communities

Exploring the unique challenges and cultural considerations in providing mental health support to Punjabi-speaking communities in the UK.

Read More →
The Power of Community Support in Mental Health Recovery
10Jan
SJ

Sarah Johnson

The Power of Community Support in Mental Health Recovery

How our weekly soup kitchen and community gatherings create a safe space for healing and connection.

Read More →
Supporting Youth Mental Health: Our Programs and Impact
5Jan
RS

Rajinder Singh

Supporting Youth Mental Health: Our Programs and Impact

An overview of our specialized programs designed to support young people in our community.

Read More →
View All Articles

Join Our Mission

Together we can create a healthier, more supportive community for everyone in Rochdale.