EXCLUSIVE: Iconic singer Lulu spoke on mental health as she launches her own charity and admits that it does feel scary to open up but hopes it will help people
Lulu has urged anyone suffering mental health issues to try to talk to a friend or family member adding: “It feels scary but you’ve got this”.
The acclaimed singer, 76, made the comment after her own charitable fund Lulu’s Mental Health Trust launched its first major event, a sponsored walk on Monday(May 19). Lulu decided to set up the fund while writing her memoir, celebrating 60 years since she stormed into the UK charts with her iconic hit Shout and realised the part mental health has played throughout her life, whether her own or her loved ones.
She told the Mirror: “The process of writing my memoir opened my eyes to the role that mental health has played in my life. Whether that’s my own mental health, my loved ones, colleagues, whatever. When I was first coming into the industry we didn’t talk about it! But it’s so important, and I want to give back. People will understand what I mean when they read the book I think… it’s coming soon.”
Reflecting on her career, she added: “It feels kinda full circle. I’ve supported lots of charities over the years and still do, but to be able to put this together myself and help make a difference is really touching. We never talked about mental health or mental illnesses when I was growing up, I’m glad it’s now something we’re aware of.
“It feels important to take a minute to look back at everything I’ve achieved and take time to think how I can use it to give back to those that need it.”
Lulu announced her new charity was being set up in February, coming off the back of her Champagne For Lulu farewell show last year which had to be extended due to demand.
She began her career with the single Shout, performed alongside her band The Luvvers, which reached number seven in the UK singles chart, and went on to have 10 UK top 10 singles and one top 10 album.
For her first charity initiative, Lulu will lead a mammoth walk which will take her from the school where she filmed ‘ To Sir With Love’ in E1 0AQ to the old Decca studio where she recorded ‘ Shout’ in NW6 3AU – passing more places connected to her incredible six-decade long career along the way.
Asked what she hoped people would take away from this campaign, she added: “The message we want to put out about how important it is to nurture and look after your mental health.
“If they take away anything, I’d love for it to be that there is help out there if they need it. If you’re struggling please talk to someone. Talk to a friend, a family member, or someone trained in what to do and say. It feels scary, but you’ve got this.”
She added: People have been so generous. I didn’t expect so many people to sponsor me and it’s only our first initiative! There will be more to come.”
Lulu said she had raised around £16,000 so far, and you can sponsor her and contribute to the charity at www.justgiving.com/campaign/luluswalk
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