A BID to raise awareness of the mental health challenges facing people across the country takes place next month.

Haddington Central Tenants & Residents Association (HCTRA) has created a mental health and wellbeing steering group.

The newly established group aims to improve access to mental health services, raise awareness of mental health issues and promote better health and personal wellbeing.

A flyer has been created by the group to promote a meeting on November 2, 7-9pm. in the town’s West Church.

It reads: “Haddington, East Lothian and much of Scotland is currently suffering from high suicide rates, especially among young people and men.

“Young people, especially girls, are reporting bullying, harassment and anxiety. The elderly are also reporting record levels of loneliness and difficulty in accessing services.

“Let’s put a stop to this by coming together as a community and finding viable solutions.

“It is your town so you should have a say in what goes on here.”