Black Country Mental Health is on track towards better mental health awareness, entering the final straight in its mission to ensure no one in the region faces their darkest moments alone—now marking 50 years of vital service to the community. Using the high-stakes energy of the racetrack, the local charity is calling on the community, sponsors, and editors to help them clear the final hurdles and bring good mental health past the winning post.
For too long, dealing with mental health struggles has felt like being trapped in the starting stalls—boxed in, anxious, and waiting for the off. Every day, thousands of people across the region carry a heavy handicap, running a gruelling race where every furlong feels longer than the last.
But a race isn’t won in isolation. Backed by a dedicated pit crew of volunteers, sponsors, partners, and trustees, Black Country Mental Health acts as the ultimate trainer and support team. They have been trackside for every lap over the last half-century, cheering individuals on, lightening the weight, and guiding them away from the rails of despair toward the ultimate prize: sustained, positive mental wellbeing.
The charity’s ultimate goal is simple but vital: to ensure that no one—young or old—in the Black Country feels stranded because of depression or left alone on the course. Keeping this life-saving machinery running requires fuel. Every single pound donated acts as vital backing, allowing the team to scale up their support, reach those who are struggling, and quite literally save lives.
The Main Event: Charity Race Night at Wolverhampton Racecourse
To celebrate their landmark 50th year, Black Country Mental Health is officially taking over the races for an unforgettable fundraising Race Evening on Friday, September 18th at Wolverhampton Racecourse.
This major community milestone is proudly powered by a powerhouse stable of local sponsors, including:
● JJX Logistics
● Pertemps Group
● Cardway Cartons Ltd
● GE Starr Engineering
Adding true rock-and-roll royalty to the trackside lineup is the charity's very own Ambassador, Dave Hill of the legendary band Slade. Dave will be hosting his very own Ambassador’s Race that evening.
Speaking ahead of the event, Dave shared that he is "really looking forward to supporting the charity and would encourage those who enjoy racing and care about good mental health to come along and join the fun on September 18th at Dunstall Park.
Reflecting on this half-century milestone and the upcoming event, CEO Sandra Vaughan shared her profound gratitude to the community:
"A massive thank you to all the sponsors, our trustees, and our incredible team of volunteers and donors. Your support is invaluable to this organisation. Thank you for your individual contributions—you truly help make BCMH possible."
Mental health should never be a permanent handicap. With the right backing, everyone in the region can successfully complete the final furlong and cross the finish line that leads to a brighter, healthier future.
Tickets are still available for the raceday on 18th September. Click here to get your tickets and support Black Country Mental Health.
