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With demand for mental health support continuing to outstrip available services, a timely discussion at CRE 2026 will explore the unique role churches can play in supporting those experiencing emotional and psychological distress.

Taking place as part of the CRE 2026 Church Leaders Conference on 14 October, the session will bring together leading voices from the worlds of counselling, bereavement support, community outreach and public policy to explore how churches can respond effectively to rising levels of anxiety, loneliness, grief and emotional distress.

Entitled "Mental Health", the panel will ask some of the most pressing questions facing church leaders today: What are the roots of the current mental health crisis? How can churches provide meaningful support when professional services are overstretched? And what can untrained volunteers realistically do to help those in need?

The discussion will be moderated by Andy Flannagan, Executive Director of Christians in Politics, who is widely recognised for his work bringing faith perspectives into public life and social debate.

Joining him on the panel will be:

• Kathy Spooner, CEO of the Association of Christians in Counselling, who brings extensive experience in the provision of professional counselling services and training.
• Patrick Regan OBE, Founder and Director of Brighter Days, and one of the UK's best-known advocates for mental health awareness, wellbeing and social action.
• Revd Canon Yvonne Tulloch, Founder and CEO of AtaLoss, the national bereavement support organisation helping individuals navigate grief and loss.

Together, the panel will explore both the opportunities and responsibilities facing churches as they increasingly become places where people seek practical and emotional support. Attendees can expect honest discussion, expert insight and practical advice on creating compassionate communities that complement professional healthcare services.

With mental health concerns affecting people of all ages and backgrounds, the session is expected to be of particular interest to church leaders, pastoral teams, volunteers and anyone involved in community care ministries.

The Church Resources Exhibition takes place on 14-15 October at Sandown Park in Surrey, and brings together thousands of church leaders, decision-makers and volunteers from across the UK to discover new ideas, resources and training that support ministry and mission.

For those seeking to understand how churches can respond to one of the defining social challenges of our time, this important discussion promises to provide valuable guidance, encouragement and inspiration.