MORE than 45 small business owners came together to support each other, their well-being and mental health, and to raise funds for charity.

On Monday, October 9, in early recognition of World Mental Health Day on October 10, small business owners gathered at Sandford Springs, near Kingsclere. 

Organised by Kingsclere Counselling Services and The Content Consultancy, Sharon May and Kate Llewellyn, aimed to offer fellow business owners the chance to make new connections in what is otherwise often quite a lonely role.

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Basingstoke Gazette: The one day event included three panel sessions, covering topics of stress, burnout, signs of overwhelm, feelings of imposter syndrome and how and when to ask for helpThe one day event included three panel sessions, covering topics of stress, burnout, signs of overwhelm, feelings of imposter syndrome and how and when to ask for help (Image: The Content Consultancy)

The one-day event included three panel sessions, covering topics of stress, burnout, signs of being overwhelmed, feelings of imposter syndrome and how and when to ask for help.

Funds were raised on the day for Solent Mind, a charity which provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. 

Alongside networking and visiting well-being exhibits, delegates were invited to complete their own Mental Health Plan, which aids not only the identification of early signs of needing support but also what they can do and who can help.

Kate Houldsworth, from KH Nutrition Coaching, said: "There was a fabulous atmosphere at the event, with lots of advice to take away. It was also a wonderful opportunity to meet new people."

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Nisha Jassal from Castlewood Homes added it has been a "great event" and "inspirational" to those who attended.

The event was inspired by corporate well-being days and employee assistant programs, which unfortunately self-employed small business owners and solopreneurs do not have access to.

The vision was fulfilled when one delegate commented that by the end of the day, she felt she had "a whole room of colleagues."

The success and fantastic feedback following the event has meant that it will be run again next year on Monday, October 7 2024. More details and ticket information can be found at thecontentconsultancy.com.