Lulu has launched her own Mental Health Trust.
The singer was inspired to set up the fund – named Lulu’s Mental Health Trust – when she was writing her upcoming memoir, celebrating the 60th anniversary of her hit single ‘Shout’.
Per a press release, during the writing process, she realised the significant role mental health had played throughout her life.
As her first initiative with the fund, Lulu will lead a sponsored walk on May 16. The walk will trace iconic locations from throughout her career, including the school where she filmed the music video for 1967’s ‘To Sir With Love’, and the old Decca studio where she first recorded ‘Shout’ – the hit that would make her a star. You can sponsor the walk here.
Speaking about the launch of the trust, Lulu said: “I have been on such an amazing journey filled with so many memories over the last 60 years, but it has come with lows as well as the incredible highs as my memoir will detail.”
“While writing my book, I had the chance to reflect on how mental health has played a big part in my life whether mine or people I love, and I feel compelled to give help to those going through their own struggles,” she continued.
It follows Lulu announcing her retirement from touring after 60 years in music in 2024.
In a discussion with Gyles Brandreth on his Rosebud podcast last year, the singer explained that she was ready to end her touring days as she started to find the schedules “gruelling”.
“I turned 75, and I thought, ‘You know what, I want to carry on working, but I want to do it a different way’… I’ve learned. And I’ve also become a slightly different person. I’m not afraid to be vulnerable,” she explained.
Her final tour culminated in a Glastonbury performance last summer.
Despite announcing her retirement, this year, she’ll join The Beach Boys at their only UK show at Englefield House in Berkshire on Sunday July 20. You can find tickets here.
For help and advice on mental health:
- CALM – The Campaign Against Living Miserably
- Help Musicians UK – Around the clock mental health support and advice for musicians (CALL MUSIC MINDS MATTER ON: 0808 802 8008)
- Music Support Org – Help and support for musicians struggling with alcoholism, addiction, or mental health issues (CALL: 0800 030 6789)
- YOUNG MINDS – The voice for young people’s health and wellbeing
- Time To Change – Let’s end mental health discrimination
- The Samaritans – Confidential support 24 hours a day
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