\n Andover Mind has launched Light the Lanes, a winter campaign inviting 24 businesses to help raise funds for rural mental health support in Test Valley and North Hampshire.\n<\/p>\n
\n Each business will sponsor a lantern on a campaign map – a winding country lane leading to a village hall – by raising around \u00a3200 through any fundraising activity of their choice.\n<\/p>\n
\n Andover Mind is asking local businesses to “light the lanes” for rural mental health. (Image: Peter Tappern)\n<\/p>\n
\n The campaign supports Rural Minds Matter, a new service delivering mental health support directly into villages through one-to-one sessions, courses and group meetings in village halls and community spaces, led by Andover Mind\u2019s wellbeing practitioners.\n<\/p>\n
\n It aims to reach people before their needs become more serious.\n<\/p>\n
\n Ed Simpson, chief executive of Andover Mind, said: “Where you live shouldn’t decide whether you can get support for your mental health.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Too many people in our villages are struggling without help because the journey into town is simply too hard.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Rural Minds Matter brings that support to them, and Light the Lanes is a wonderful way for local businesses to be part of it.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Every lantern lit means someone in our community can get help closer to home.”\n<\/p>\n
\n The campaign is particularly timely as almost a third of residents in Andover Mind\u2019s service area live in rural locations, yet only a quarter of those currently receiving support are from these communities.\n<\/p>\n
\n Limited public transport, long journeys and travel costs are major barriers to accessing help.\n<\/p>\n
\n Each participating business will receive a window poster, a dedicated social media feature, their logo on the Andover Mind website and an invitation to the charity\u2019s Christmas fayre.\n<\/p>\n
\n From December 1 to 8, three lanterns will be illuminated each day until the entire lane glows.\n<\/p>\n
\n The campaign also coincides with the Big Give Christmas Challenge, the UK\u2019s largest match-funding scheme.\n<\/p>\n
\n During the same week, online donations to Rural Minds Matter will be doubled, increasing the impact of every contribution.\n<\/p>\n
\n One in six adults in Hampshire experiences anxiety or depression, with rates in Test Valley and Basingstoke above the county average.\n<\/p>\n
\n Andover Mind hopes the campaign will not only raise vital funds but also draw attention to the unique challenges faced by rural communities.\n<\/p>\n
\n Businesses interested in taking part can email andovermind@thelocalmarketingcompany.co.uk.\n<\/p>\n