£11m mental health research centre to tackle inequalities across West Yorkshire
A major new mental health research centre at the University of Huddersfield is set to address rising levels of mental health need across West Yorkshire, as highlighted during Mental Health Awareness Month May 2026.
Mental Health awareness month is leading with the theme “More Good Days, Together,” promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging community support for mental health.
Recent research conducted across Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield has revealed significant levels of mental health challenges in local communities, including anxiety, depression, psychosis and suicide. The findings also point to strong links between poor mental health and wider social issues such as poverty, inadequate housing and unemployment.
In response, the University has established the Centre for Equity in Mental Health (CEMH), supported by an £11 million National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Mental Health Research Group award. The centre aims to tackle inequalities in mental health by delivering impactful, community-informed research across the region.
Working closely with local authorities, NHS organisations, and voluntary sector partners, CEMH will focus on improving mental health outcomes across the life course - from early childhood through to older adulthood, while harnessing the potential of new technologies to enhance care and access to support.
Dr Michael Doyle, Professor of Mental Health Research and Director of CEMH, said, “Mental health is fundamental to how we live, work and connect with others. Yet too many people across our region are struggling to access the support they need.
Michael Doyle
Professor in Mental Health Research
"Through the Centre for Equity in Mental Health, we are committed to working alongside our partners and local communities to develop research that leads to meaningful, lasting change.”
The Centre builds on the University of Huddersfield’s strong track record in applied mental health research and reflects a long-term ambition to expand research capacity and capability across the region. A key focus will be ensuring that research is grounded in the lived experiences of local people and translates into real-world improvements in services and outcomes.
The University’s commitment to mental health and wellbeing has also been recognised through the achievement of the University Mental Health Charter Award. Alongside its research activity, the University provides a wide range of support services for students and staff, and continues to play an active role in promoting wellbeing across its wider communities.
Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Mental Health Research Group (MHRG): University of Huddersfield.