NOVEMBER 2026 · MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING

An apology. And then what?

Hi Reader,

Welcome to November’s newsletter, and thank you for opening it. I always appreciate hearing from those of you who look forward to these monthly updates.

October was full. I delivered more Mental Health First Aid training, online and in person, and travelled to London for an NTV recording around World Mental Health Day.

I also finally heard Barack Obama speak in Manchester. That has been on my bucket list for some time. No, I didn’t meet him, but being in the room was quite something.

And somewhere in the middle of it all, I made it to a gong bath for a little rest and relaxation.

THIS MONTH’S MAIN ARTICLE

An apology is a beginning. What does repair look like?

Following Black History Month, I have been listening to the growing debate about Britain’s role in slavery and the calls for an apology and reparations. It is an uncomfortable subject. That is partly why I wanted to write about it.

In my new blog, I look at the arguments for and against reparations, what the history tells us, and why inequality and mental health belong in the conversation. I do not pretend to have a neat figure or a ready-made solution. But I do ask whether an apology means enough if we rule out practical repair before listening to those affected.

Read the new blog

A bucket-list evening in Manchester

Hearing Barack Obama speak was the standout moment of October for me. Here is a photo I took at the event.

An evening in Manchester, October 2026.

A quick wellbeing MOT

I was in London for an NTV recording around World Mental Health Day. In this short clip, I explain why it is worth checking in with our wellbeing before something goes wrong.

A 40-second edit from NTV Unscripted, not the full conversation.

Watch the 40-second clip

Ready for the conversation?

In MHFA training, people often ask what they should say when they notice someone is struggling.

It is a good question. But listening is only the start. We also need to know our boundaries, what support is available and when to signpost.

The next live online MHFA England course is 16–17 November 2026, from 09:00–17:00 each day. It is two interactive days with a small group of up to 16 learners. The fee is £365 total per person; I confirm availability before payment. The following date is 1–2 December 2026.

Check 16–17 November availability

Already trained? Explore the MHFA Refresher.

COMING UP IN SHEFFIELD

Creating opportunity, together

On 20 November, I will be moderating a panel with business and community leaders at the African Business Association’s 4th Annual Business Conference in Sheffield. The theme is Connecting Enterprise, Creating Thriving Opportunities in a Changing Economy.

It should be a proper conversation about the opportunities we want to create, who gets to take part and what helps people move forward.

Find out about the conference

What I’m reading, watching and listening to

Reading: Capitalism for All
John Hope Bryant

I have finished it, and I would highly recommend it. An inspiring read that challenged me to think about who gets the opportunity to build financial security. Some of those ideas stayed with me while I was writing this month’s blog.

Watching: Pierre, and an old favourite

Pierre, with David Harewood on Channel 4, has been on my screen. And I must admit, I have gone back to Lupin on Netflix. Some favourites are worth another watch.

Listening: Pair-a-Dice
Carmichael Musiclover

If you like your soul music, give this one a listen. As my daughters would say, it is dope. I am not going to argue with them on this one.

An apology matters. But it cannot, on its own, open a door to work or improve access to care.

I know reparations divide opinion. I’ve shared mine in the blog, and I’d genuinely like to hear yours. Is an apology enough, or should practical repair follow? Hit reply and tell me what you think.

Thank you for reading.
— Mike

About Mike Lawrence

Mike Lawrence is a Health and Wellbeing Consultant, MHFA England Instructor and workplace mental health speaker, working with organisations across the UK to strengthen wellbeing, resilience and performance through practical approaches grounded in real experience.

Browse the free wellbeing resources

Let’s stay connected

If something resonated, email me directly.

hello@mikelawrence.co.uk

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