Since our formation in the early 1980’s, we’ve had a proud tradition of supporting everyone affected by bipolar
In 1982, Sheila Woodland from Wimbledon, London, placed an advert in The Guardian seeking responses from people directly affected by manic depression (as bipolar was then known).
Soon after, Philomena Germing from Barnes, London, placed similar adverts in The Times, The Daily Telegraph and The Observer. When the two women found out about each other, they decided to join forces.
Becoming Bipolar UK
In 2011, we publicly consulted on key strategic planning issues. The phenomenal response led to the development of a new five-year strategy and a new charity name – Bipolar UK. Alongside our service delivery work, we have also raised public awareness and understanding of bipolar and its effects. Two notable successes have been working closely with Stephen Fry on the making of the documentary A Secret Life of a Manic Depressive and being an adviser to EastEnders in the bipolar story of Stacey and her mother Jean.
The future of Bipolar UK
In the years ahead, providing support services remain central to everything we do. We will continue to improve services and we are planning to expand our youth services and link mentoring across the UK. Our 2011 consultation clearly showed the need for us to increase our communications work and act as a voice for individuals affected by bipolar. We are currently investing in this.
Bipolar UK remains committed to being your innovative, sustainable national bipolar charity.
Contact Details
- Peer support line: 0333 323 3880
- Support group line: 0333 323 3885
- Peer support e-mail: info@bipolaruk.org
- Support group emails: supportgroups@bipolaruk.org
Ipswich Support Group
The Tooley Room,
Quay Place,
Key Street,
Ipswich,
IP4 1BZ
Bury St Edmunds Support Group
Quaker Meeting House,
St John Street,
Bury St Edmunds,
IP33 1SJ