Bipolar UK is a national charity based in London, United Kingdom, dedicated to supporting individuals affected by bipolar disorder. It was established in 1983 under the name Manic Depression Fellowship (later known as MDF The Bipolar Organization) and changed its name to Bipolar UK in 2011.
History
The organization was founded in 1983 by Sheila Woodland and Philomena Germing, along with 41 other individuals. The first meeting took place in January 1983 at Church House, Westminster. It was formed to enable people affected by bipolar disorder to take control of their lives and to provide support to those with a formal diagnosis, their families, and friends. In 2011, the organization formally changed its name from MDF The Bipolar Organization to Bipolar UK.
Mission and Activities
Bipolar UK is the only national charity in the United Kingdom that specializes exclusively in supporting people with bipolar disorder. Peer support has been central to its work for over four decades. The charity provides a range of services including:
- A network of peer support groups (approximately 85 groups across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland as of 2022)
- A moderated online eCommunity available 24 hours a day
- One-to-one telephone and email peer support
- Information and advice services
- Workplace training
- Research partnerships and campaigning
The organization empowers approximately 1,000 people per month through its services.
Governance
Bipolar UK is a registered charity (Charity Number 293340) and a company limited by guarantee. Its day-to-day activities are led by a Chief Executive Officer, and oversight is provided by a Board of Trustees. The charity operates with a small staff and approximately 200 volunteers across the United Kingdom.
See Also
- Mental health in the United Kingdom
- International Society for Bipolar Disorders
- Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
- Outline of bipolar disorder
