Advocating for Change
Lobbying for Mental Health Reform
Shine is committed to influencing decision-makers at local, national, and international levels. We engage with policymakers, government officials, and legislators to ensure that mental health remains a priority on the agenda, and that policies and relevant legislation respond to the needs of those living with or affected by mental health illnesses. Through our lobbying efforts, we strive to:
- Secure increased funding for mental health services.
- Promote the implementation of evidence-based mental health policies.
- Advocate for legislative changes that protect and empower individuals with mental health challenges.
An example of this work is our participation in the Dail Debate on the Mental Health Bill. We used insights and quotes from people who contributed to our live surveys to inform our contributions: Joint Sub-Committee on Mental Health debate - Tuesday, 5 Apr 2022
Lobbying for Mental Health Reform
Shine is committed to influencing decision-makers at local, national, and international levels. We engage with policymakers, government officials, and legislators to ensure that mental health remains a priority on the agenda, and that policies and relevant legislation respond to the needs of those living with or affected by mental health illnesses. Through our lobbying efforts, we strive to:
- Secure increased funding for mental health services.
- Promote the implementation of evidence-based mental health policies.
- Advocate for legislative changes that protect and empower individuals with mental health challenges.
An example of this work is our participation in the Dail Debate on the Mental Health Bill. We used insights and quotes from people who contributed to our live surveys to inform our contributions: Joint Sub-Committee on Mental Health debate - Tuesday, 5 Apr 2022
Crafting Informed Submissions
We use our expertise and the lived experiences of those we support to inform our submissions to public consultations, government bodies, and advisory groups. Our submissions highlight gaps in current services and policies while offering practical solutions. Recent submissions have focused on:
- Reducing mental health stigma in workplaces and communities.
- Enhancing access to mental health care for marginalised groups.
- Supporting recovery-oriented approaches in mental health services.
An example of this work is our submission to the National Disability Strategy consultation in 2024, informed by members of our Voice Platform: National Disability Strategy _Shine submission_Feb 24.pdf
Enabling Conversations That Matter
Shine fosters open, inclusive conversations about mental health to challenge stigma and build understanding. We work with communities, organisations, and individuals to:
- Host workshops and public forums on mental health topics.
- Collaborate with media to promote accurate and compassionate portrayals of mental health.
- Partner with other organisations to amplify diverse voices and experiences.
Examples of work that we do in this area include:
- A National Conference in 2023: Speak Up-Shine Conversations for Change.
- Webinars based on feedback on issues that are identified as important. A recent one was held on Family recovery
Join Us in Advocating for Change
Advocacy is at the heart of Shine’s mission to create a society where everyone has access to the support they need to achieve mental well-being. Together, we can break down barriers, challenge misconceptions, and build a more inclusive future for all.
To learn more about our advocacy efforts or get involved, contact us at info@shine.ie or explore our resources below:
Shine’s Policy Submissions
Budget 2025 Shine submission (July 2024)
Budget 2024 Shine submission (July 2023)
Budget 2023 Shine submission (July 2022)
Adult Safeguarding Public Consultation (March 2024)
Disability Strategy (February 2024)
Reference Group – Sharing the Vision – Monitoring report (November 2024)
Shine Statement for Sub-Committee on Mental Health (April 2022)
The Rosalynn Carter Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism in Ireland
Founded in 1996, the highly competitive Rosalynn Carter Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism awards year long, non-residential fellowships to journalists from the United States, Colombia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to report on a mental health topic of their choice. In 2023, Shine’s Headline programme, in partnership with the Carter Center, proudly announced the rollout of this prestigious fellowship in Ireland through the Rosalynn Carter Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism in the Republic of Ireland.
Find out more
Mental Health Media Awards
Shine works closely with the media to promote responsible and accurate reporting on mental health. Through guidance, training, and collaboration, Shine helps journalists and media professionals understand the impact of stigma and misinformation while encouraging coverage that is respectful and informed.
Find out more
Green Ribbon Order Form
To order your FREE Green Ribbons, please fill out this form with your order details:
