SAMH

At SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health), we operate as Scotland's national mental health charity, dedicated to providing robust community support, specialised social care, and life-changing mental health services. Established with a core commitment to empowering individuals and challenging stigma, our mission is built on transforming lives, influencing national policy, and ensuring that mental health is treated with the same urgency and care as physical health.

Who We Are

Headquartered at Brunswick House, 51 Wilson Street, Glasgow (G1 1UZ) and led by Chief Executive Billy Watson, our organisation brings together experienced mental health practitioners, social care workers, policy advisors, and community support teams. Operating over 60 frontline services across Scotland—alongside pioneering walk-in mental health hubs such as The Nook—we collaborate closely with local authorities, NHS boards, and community partners to deliver accessible, barrier-free mental health support.

What We Do

We deliver an integrated suite of specialist mental health services, community initiatives, and national programmes:

• Mental Health Social Care: Providing dedicated residential, supported living, and outreach care for individuals managing severe and enduring mental health problems.
• Community & Wellbeing Support: Operating local services that encompass addictions recovery, employment support, peer mentoring, and targeted adult wellbeing initiatives.
• The Nook Walk-In Hubs: Operating barrier-free community drop-in centres (with locations in Glasgow and Aberdeen) offering immediate, appointment-free mental health support.
• Children & Young People Programmes: Delivering targeted youth mental health support, school partnerships, and educational interventions across Scottish communities.
• National Campaigns & Suicide Prevention: Spearheading nationwide awareness campaigns, suicide prevention resources, and national initiatives including RespectMe (Scotland's anti-bullying service).

Our Approach & Values

• Barrier-Free Accessibility: Prioritising open-access support models where individuals can seek help without prolonged waiting lists or complex referral pathways.
• Person-Centred Recovery: Grounding every care and support plan in the unique experiences, strengths, and personal recovery goals of each individual.
• Systemic Social Change: Leveraging frontline operational experience to inform national policy, challenge mental health discrimination, and advocate for lasting systemic reform.

Industry Role

We operate as a Specialised Mental Health Charity and Social Care Provider. Our role is to act as Scotland's leading mental health organisation, supplying vital community support infrastructure, clinical social care services, and national advocacy.