CHOICE Social Prescribing Project -Get Involved
August 6, 2026Opportunity for Members: Join the CHOICE Community Coalition Supporting Mental Health Inclusion.
NIMC members are invited to learn more about the CHOICE Project, an innovative social prescribing initiative that supports people living with serious mental illness (SMI) to reconnect with their communities across Northern Ireland.
Funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, CHOICE aims to reduce social exclusion and improve wellbeing by helping participants engage in meaningful community activities, groups and services.
As part of the programme, CHOICE Community Navigators work directly with participants to identify opportunities that match their interests and aspirations. To support this work, the project is developing an online directory of inclusive organisations and community opportunities that can help people feel welcomed, supported and connected.
Invitation to NIMC Members
The CHOICE team would welcome involvement from NIMC members and arm’s length bodies who offer activities, programmes, groups or services that could provide positive opportunities for people living with serious mental illness.
There is no cost to participate, no funding requirement, and organisations are not expected to create programmes specifically for CHOICE participants. The key requirement is a commitment to being inclusive and supportive of people living with serious mental illness.
Benefits of Joining CHOICE
Organisations that join the CHOICE platform will:
- Be included in the online CHOICE directory used by Community Navigators.
- Become part of the CHOICE Community Coalition.
- Receive support from Navigators to help participants feel prepared and welcomed before attending activities.
- Join a growing network committed to reducing stigma and promoting inclusion.
- Access training resources co-developed with people who have lived experience of serious mental illness.
- Receive invitations to upcoming CHOICE information events across Northern Ireland.
- The CHOICE project brings together organisations from across the arts, education, sport, leisure and community sectors, creating opportunities for greater collaboration and inclusion throughout Northern Ireland.
Find Out More
Members interested in participating can learn more at www.choiceni.org or complete the CHOICE registration form.
The CHOICE Project Manager is also available to answer questions or facilitate an online information and Q&A session for interested organisations. Members wishing to explore this opportunity further can contact NIMC and we will facilitate introductions.
By becoming part of the CHOICE Community Coalition, organisations can help create welcoming pathways into community life for people living with serious mental illness and contribute to a more inclusive Northern Ireland.