Author, campaigner and former Health Minister Sir Norman Lamb will join Stephen Crocker and special guests for a free evening of conversation and fresh thinking on mental health.
The event will take place on Wednesday 30 September at 7.30pm at Norwich Theatre Stage Two. Inspired by Sir Norman’s new book, Be More Human: Why Mental Health Care is Broken and What We Can Do to Fix It, and hosted by Stephen Crocker, Chief Executive and Creative Director of Norwich Theatre, the evening will feature a wide-ranging conversation with Sir Norman Lamb, alongside contributions from Alexis Quinn and Steven Downes, whose personal experiences are featured in the book.
Drawing on stories of lived experience as well as examples of innovative mental health practice from around the world, including two clinicians via live link: Roberto Mezzina from Italy and Birgit Valla from Norway, the discussion will explore what it means to place relationships, dignity and humanity at the centre of mental health care.
Why do people with mental health conditions die 15-20 years earlier than people without? Why is £100 million spent every year placing patients far from their homes? How did the question ‘What matters to you?’ transform mental health care in Norway?
We live in a country in which community is fading, inequality is growing, and discrimination is still far too common. At the same time, services dedicated to our wellbeing and mental health can feel less than human – ignoring or even adding to this growing crisis.
Lamb, who’s a former Health Minister, NHS trust chair, and dedicated mental health campaigner, has seen the cracks in the system up close. Here he sets out to uncover the real reasons our mental health services are failing. He recalls eye-opening stories from patients who have been let down, but also inspiring tales from trailblazers who are shaking things up with creative, community-first solutions. Sir Norman is clear – we need a mental health revolution – but what can we do to create mental health care which is more human?
Chief Executive and Creative Director of Norwich Theatre, Stephen Crocker, said: “Mental health affects every aspect of our lives, from our relationships to our communities and workplaces. As more people find themselves navigating complex challenges, and too often struggling to access the support they need, this conversation feels both timely and necessary.
“Sir Norman’s book asks difficult questions, but it is ultimately hopeful, reminding us of the importance of human connection. Alongside Sir Norman, we are privileged to welcome Alexis Quinn and Steven Downes, whose stories feature in Be More Human and who will share their own lived experiences of navigating the mental health system. It promises to be a thoughtful and inspiring evening.”
Sir Norman Lamb, a former Health Minister, NHS trust chair and one of the UK’s most respected mental health advocates, said: “Be More Human is a call for a kinder, more human approach to mental health, one built on relationships, compassion and understanding. I’m delighted to be joining Norwich Theatre to discuss the ideas in the book and to hear from people whose experiences help illuminate both the challenges and the possibilities for change.”
The event will also help shape Norwich Theatre’s future work around mental health and wellbeing, including plans for a wider programme of activity during Mental Health Awareness Month in 2027.
Admission is free, but advance booking is required.
