John’s Living with Mental Health becomes a CIC

John Durrant has launched Living with Mental Health CIC as a not-for-profit dedicated to raising awareness and sharing stories. John and those involved – including sister Abby – explain more

Founder and Director John Durrant

I’ve always been told I couldn’t do much, that I wasn’t intelligent enough. But instead of letting that stop me, it’s pushed me to prove that I can make a difference. Setting up the CIC has given me the chance to run projects with other organisations, while also improving my own mental health and learning how to build something that supports the community.

What is the mission of the CIC?

My mission is simple: if my blog, podcast, or projects can help even one person with their mental health journey, then it’s worth it. Since 2018 I’ve been given opportunities that improved my own wellbeing, and I want to create similar opportunities for others—through sharing experiences, building projects, and offering support that makes a real difference.

How can people find out more?

People can find out more by visiting livingmentalhealth.com, where I’ll be sharing updates and news. If you’re interested in collaborating with us, feel free to reach out at john@livingmentalhealth.com. We’ve only just opened our bank account, so we’re now in conversations about funding our very first projects — exciting times ahead. Watch this space.

Director David Robertson

Can you remind readers who you are and what you do?

My full name is Mr David Andrew Robertson, BSc (Hons), MSc, HNC, MBCS. I am one of John Durrant’s friends. I am a citizen of the United Kingdom. I am a biker when I get to ride. I am 59 years old. I operate on an older version of Carpe Diem. I seize up on the day. That is a joke. I get to work on computers a lot. I am qualified as a computer programmer. Depending on who I am talking to, I am also a developer. I am autistic which makes me clumsy. I speak well, unless I am tired or full of information. Being neurodivergent can be useful. I don’t think it is any more fun than being neurotypical.

Why was it important to you to become a director?

The truth is: when the electronic submission form said that two directors were needed and John messaged to say do you want to be a director, I seized the opportunity. I had been asked to be a Chief Technology Officer of two companies in the past and I did not take any of those positions. Why did I take the Living with Mental Health CIC’s position? Because the business idea was excellent…I like John, and I would have been a trustee anyway. So why not? In the director role of Living with Mental Health CIC, I am taking on a role of financial record keeping, and technical officer. John and I communicate well…I am cautious of telling him what to do and try and phrase a suggestion or ask him a question about what we are discussing. It was important that I have more exposure to John, and we live in a locality which allows us to understand each other. It is not a lie that we move in different circles. However, I feel this shall concentrate our energies in a together arrangement.

Trustee Abby Codling

Hello! My name is Abby, and I am one of the admins. I edit posts and listen to some of the crazy ideas that John has and help to find a way that we can make it work! Oh, and John is also my brother!

Why did you want to become a trustee for Living with Mental Health CIC?

I have grown up around people with different types of mental health disorders. One of the most important people in my life, my brother John, is one of them. I have seen first-hand what it can do to the individual and those around them. I fully support John in what he is doing and admire how he is using his past experiences to help others. Becoming a trustee is a way to further my support and I can’t wait to watch Living with Mental Health grow!

Trustee Paul Sawyer

My name is Paul Sawyer. I am an area sales manager working for a manufacturer selling into electrical wholesalers. 

Why did you want to become a trustee for Living with Mental Health CIC?

I have for many years supported friends and friends of friends with brotherly support with a big shoulder and two large ears. I also am an admin on the page and share a number of positive quotes daily to try and ensure some positivity is in the feed as members scroll. I have offered to support the CIC as I believe it will make a difference in people’s lives.

Visit Living with Mental Health CIC on Instagram.

Featured image of John Durrant – supplied