St. George’s shopping centre, in Harrow, has teamed up with Harrow Mind and The World Land Trust, to raise funds and awareness around Mental Health in celebration of Mental Health Awareness Week.

Research has shown that one in four people will experience a mental health problem each year, which is why the community shopping centre decided they wanted to support this week.

Mental Health Awareness Week will take place from May 10-16 2021 and this year's theme is 'Nature'. Nature has been one of the main ways people have supported their mental health during the pandemic as it has acted as a form of escapism.

Therefore to show the centre’s dedication, St. George’s famous vending machine will transform into an environment and nature hub.

The vending machine will be filled with reusable bags, straws, makeup wipes and bottles, plus free cinema tickets, gift vouchers and vouchers for free meals. Each transaction will cost £1 which will be donated to Harrow Mind. St. George’s shopping centre will match the £1 customer donation and donate a further £1 to The World Land Trust to plant a tree.

The vending machine is located on the Ground Floor outside Nando’s and will be available between May 10 and 16.

Darren Harman, centre manager said: "We are really pleased to have this opportunity to raise awareness of mental health issues and how they affect people.

"We hope that the events we are hosting will increase the community's understanding of mental health issues and reduce the stigma around mental health."