DESIGN Changes Lives
The Design in Mental Health Network (DiMHN) is a UK-based charity dedicated to improving the environments in which mental health care and support are delivered.
Since 2006, DiMHN has brought together people from healthcare, architecture, design, manufacturing, academia, and lived experience to shape safer, more therapeutic spaces for those accessing mental health services.
We know that the more accurately a design brief reflects the evidenced needs of all users, the more effective the resulting environment will be in supporting mental health care and improving outcomes.
We strongly advocate for including people with lived experience in the design process. We encourage all organisations involved in creating mental health spaces and delivering care to embrace co-production to achieve better outcomes for all.
As mental health care is increasingly delivered across organisations, systems, and settings, from hospitals to community hubs, schools, workplaces, and digital and virtual environments, we know the need for inclusive, evidence-based design is more critical than ever.
We believe that lasting change happens when we bring different voices together.
Join us in shaping the future of mental health environments through good design.
What We Do
We act as a catalyst to accelerate progress and improve outcomes by:
- Bringing together sectors and disciplines—including lived experience, mental health care, design, manufacturing, technology, and research—to share knowledge, insights, and best practices in shaping better mental health environments
- Developing independent standards, testing protocols, and guidance to support safer, more effective products in mental health environments
- Investing in and sharing research and real-world evidence to support good design of mental health environments.
- Driving collaboration locally and internationally to amplify what works, and learn from what doesn’t
Why good design for mental health matters
The environments in which mental health care takes place matter. Yet despite growing evidence, the influence of design on mental well-being is too often overlooked. The spaces where care happens shape how care is experienced. For people receiving mental health support, often at times of acute distress or vulnerability, the built environment can aid recovery or amplify harm.
Evidence shows us that good design in mental health settings is not just about aesthetics. It can reduce anxiety, shorten hospital stays, improve safety, staff morale, and service user outcomes.
However, despite this evidence, mental health environments have historically received less design attention, investment, and innovation than other areas of healthcare. At DiMHN, we focus on changing that.
Who We Support
We are a membership organisation, but the ultimate beneficiaries of our work are those who use and work in mental health environments.
Our intended impact is an informed, connected, and empowered community that can influence and accelerate change in mental health design for the benefit of all.
Our corporate and individual members come from various sectors and disciplines. This diversity strengthens our work.
Together, we make a difference to mental health design and its impact on therapeutic outcomes.
Who is behind the organisation
The Board Of Trustees
DiMHN is governed by a voluntary Board of Trustees. They set our strategic direction, monitor the delivery of our objectives, and uphold our values and governance. Together, they guide the long-term development of the organisation. They guide, advise, and support our Chief Executive, who leads the team in working towards our vision and delivering on our purpose.
Each Board member brings unique skills and perspectives, enriching the discussions and decisions that guide DiMHN. The Board works closely with our network of members and Associates.
Meet the Board>
Our CEO - Charlotte Burrows
Charlotte Burrows is an impact-driven leader committed to transforming mental health outcomes through design, innovation, and collaboration. Appointed CEO of the Design in Mental Health Network (DiMHN) in 2025, Charlotte brings a blend of strategic leadership, creative thinking, and compassion to the role.
Charlotte has built her career at the intersection of health equity, design, and innovation. At DiMHN, Charlotte leads the organisation and delivers our strategy to grow the charity’s impact, influence, and long-term sustainability.
“I’m honoured to join DiMHN at such a pivotal time. Design plays a key role in how people experience mental health care. I look forward to working with our members and partners to co-create environments that support improved mental health outcomes “ — Charlotte Burrows
Charlotte’s appointment reflects our commitment to expanding the influence of design in mental health both in the UK and internationally.
Contact Charlotte, our CEO>
Connect with Charlotte on LinkedIn, here>
Read Charlotte’s Bio>
Associates (Volunteers)
Associates are valued volunteers who play a vital role in supporting the aims and activities of the Design in Mental Health Network (DiMHN). While not trustees or employees, they contribute their time, expertise, and networks to further the charity’s mission. Associates may be involved in specific projects or offer general support, and their involvement helps strengthen the charity’s voice and effectiveness within the mental health and design communities.
Associates bring diverse and valuable perspectives, skills, and lived experience to the Network’s collaborative work.
Some of the ways in which Associates are contributing:
- Conference planning (via the Conference Advisory Group)
- Promoting and sharing lived experience and co-production
- Research and education initiatives
- International engagement and insight sharing
- Product evaluation through Informed Choices (with BRE)
Associates bring diverse and valuable perspectives, skills, and lived experience to the Network’s collaborative work and are key to developing DIMHN’s delivery and innovation. If you would like to find out more about becoming an Associate then contact us today.
Meet our Associates>
Together, our Board, CEO, Associates, and wider membership form a collaborative force, committed to advancing design that improves lives.
If you are interested in becoming a voluntary associate, please contact us>
Become an individual or corporate member today