Message from our Chair of Trustees

It is my privilege to introduce the Rethink Mental Illness Annual Report for 2024/25 — a year marked by both significant progress and considerable challenge. Throughout the year, the dedication of our staff, volunteers, members, and supporters has helped us make a real  positive difference in the lives of people severely affected by mental illness.

This year, our reach expanded to support more than 24,000 people through 143 services across the country. At a national level, the introduction of a new Mental Health Bill reflects long-standing priorities that Rethink and our allies have championed for many years.

Our campaigns continued to shape public discourse. Fix Our Mental Health System kept pressure on decision-makers, while Let’s Rethink Mental Illness challenged stigma nationwide and brought thousands of new supporters to our cause.

Progress also continued on our anti-racism journey, with the publication of a second Anti- Racism Progress Report and rollout of the Advancing Mental Health Equalities Plan. Representation improved across the Charity, with our Race Equality Action Leaders network helping shape culture and values.

All of this has been achieved against a challenging external backdrop. Income fell slightly to £43.9 million, reflecting a shortfall in fundraising, and the closure of services and contracts, including Breathing Space, amid broader economic uncertainty and rising cost pressures. This resulted in an end of year total deficit of £4m; however, through careful financial management and the strategic use of reserves, the Charity has been able to safeguard services, invest in priorities, and remain well-positioned for future growth.

As trustees, our responsibility is to ensure that Rethink remains resilient, forward-looking, and ambitious. As we look ahead to 2025/26, our commitment to the Communities that Care strategy remains unwavering. Priorities include scaling our Health Navigator model, strengthening national helpline support, expanding local alliances, and championing lived experience-led research — all grounded in what works and shaped by those we serve.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to our work this year. Your passion, dedication, and generosity drive us forward -  towards a society where people severely affected by mental illness are met with dignity, compassion, and the respect they deserve.


- Kathryn Tyson, Chair of Trustees.

Our year in numbers: 2024/25