Background

BasicNeeds is a mental health advocacy organisation based in Tamale, Northern Region of Ghana, promoting a model for mental health and development which centres around community involvement.

The Mwananchi Ghana project with BasicNeeds uses a photographic documentary on the everyday lives of people with mental illness and epilepsy to influence mental health policy and practice and to address the needs and rights of people with mental illness in Ghana.

Between 2004 and 2011 a new Mental Health Bill was drafted and discussed in Parliament. BasicNeed sought to intervene at this key moment to influence mental health policy in Ghana.

Key Outputs

• Photo book to be published

• Increased knowledge and awareness of metal health issues

• Self help support groups established

• Self help groups engage duty bearers

Envisaged Change

• Increased knowledge and awareness about mental health among the general public, policy-makers, authorities and families

• Reduced stigma due to improved attitudes

• Increased financial allocation for mental health services at the district level of the target project area

• Change in policy on mental health

Outcomes

The photo book was published during the second reading of the Mental Health Bill. The photobook was widely distributed among parliamentarians and evoked a personal response to the suffering it documented. This complemented more technical discussions and countered widespread prejudice against people with mental health issues. The Bill was passed in 2012 (although has yet to be signed into law by the President).

THE PHOTO BOOK IS NOW AVAILABLE - PLEASE CLICK HERE