A FORMER Halesowen schoolgirl has been awarded a British Empire Medal for services to mental health.
Liz Versi - nee Bills - was honoured in the recent New Year’s Honours List after starting a movement to remove the stigma surrounding anxiety and depression.
The 40-year-old former Leasowes High School pupil and Halesowen College student, works for the Home Office in Sheffield, where she attended university.
Five years ago she and a colleague, Lisa Towers, shared their experiences with anxiety and depression and decided they wanted to do something to help other people.
They started a mental health movement called Break the Stigma which has gained national recognition.
It also has a presence in a number of government departments and helps people access support and help without shame.
Proud mum Halesowen North councillor Hilary Bills and dad John said: “All the family are very proud of Liz and all that she and Lisa have achieved in breaking the stigma attached to having mental health problems.”
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