Döner Shack partners with local charities to promote mental health awareness

Döner Shack, the Berlin-inspired street-food franchise, has partnered with five local mental health charities across the UK to launch its new wellbeing campaign to raise awareness and support for mental health. As the UK marks Mental Health Awareness (15^th–21^st May), the brand will use the annual initiative as a platform to drive positive change in the community and make it an everyday priority.

To support its campaign, Döner Shack will provide printed postcards with every order, whether sit-in, take-away or delivery, with information about local mental health charities, along with QR codes that link to their respective websites. QR codes will also link to helpful resources for those who might be struggling with mental health issues, as well as links for customers who would like to donate and support the work of the charities.

The idea for the postcards was inspired by a recent collaboration between Döner Shack and Mental Health Advocate and digital content creator, Max Selwood. Max has amassed a large online following for his video series where he approaches strangers and gives them handwritten notes with positive messages.

Mental health awareness is a subject close to the heart of Sanjeev Sanghera, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Döner Shack, who has experienced his own personal challenges and felt there was a lack of support and help when he needed it most. “When I was younger and starting out, I really struggled with the direction of what I wanted to do. I was battling with my mental health, battling with depression, but my mentality was always to keep going and keep working. When I was younger there wasn’t enough support out there, but I always kept a strong belief in myself that no matter what I apply myself to, I will make it.

“Never let anyone tell you that your dreams are too big, or you can’t make it. Even if one extra person is able to ask for help because of this campaign, it will have been worthwhile for me. Mental health awareness is an important social drive to improve the understanding of mental illness, reduce the stigma around mental health, and increase access to necessary help for those who need it. By joining forces with these local charities, we hope to continue the vital work fighting for good mental health and help make a difference. The postcards are just one way in which Döner Shack is looking to support the cause, and we are committed to continuing our efforts to promote mental wellbeing in the future.”

Döner Shack has partnered with a different mental health charity in each of the restaurant locations, including Shout in London, MindtheMen in Glasgow, Life Links in Leicester and Mind in Leeds and Manchester. A spokesperson for Manchester Mind commented: “Manchester Mind have been supporting better mental health for the people of Manchester for over 30 years and offer a range of services for adults and young people. We are delighted that as we approach Mental Health Awareness Week, Döner Shack will be running a wellbeing campaign, and to anyone who is struggling, we would encourage them to visit the Manchester Mind online Self-care Hub for information and to access support.”

Click here to watch the interview Sanjeev did with Max Selwood – www.instagram.com/reel/CsQqRE5I2wj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MTIyMzRjYmRlZg==