Mind is the leading mental health charity in England and Wales, and works for a better life for everyone with experience of mental distress.

According to the charity's mission statement it aims to achieve that by a number of methods.

These include advancing the views, needs and ambitions of people with experience of mental distress, promoting inclusion by challenging discrimination, influencing policy through campaigning and education and achieving equal civil and legal rights through campaigning and education.

Merger

Established in 1946 as The National Association for Mental Health, Mind has grown into a major network which spreads across England and Wales.

It was formed as a result of the merger of three mental health organisations - the Central Association for Mental Welfare, The Child Guidance Council, and the National Council for Mental Hygiene.

The name MIND was adopted in 1972.

During its existence, MIND has been responsible for countless media and awareness campaigns and now has more than 200 local Mind associations around the country.

It also has established an information and advice line called Mindinfoline (0845 7660 163) which offers callers confidential help on a range of mental health problems.