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Fatboy Slim Expands Mental Health DJ Workshops with Sussex NHS & Charity Partnership
Fatboy Slim, also known as Norman Cook, is amplifying his commitment to mental health through music. Partnering with the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and the charity Heads On, the British DJ and producer has expanded his DJ workshop program designed for individuals living with severe mental health conditions.
Over the past year, more than 30 workshops have taken place across Sussex, engaging participants aged 23 to 58, many of whom are living with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and complex personality conditions. The sessions offer not just technical DJ training but also a creative and therapeutic outlet that builds confidence, focus, and emotional expression.
The initiative, originally developed by occupational therapist Natalie Rowlands, culminated in a special event titled “Sound Minds”, held on September 24 at Rockwater Hove. The showcase featured 13 participants performing their own sets, alongside Fatboy Slim himself, in a celebration of healing, creativity, and human connection.
For many attendees, the workshops have been transformative. Participants have reported a renewed sense of purpose, improved self-esteem, and a stronger connection to community, outcomes that highlight the program’s deeper impact beyond music.
The success of the project has led to its renewal for another year, ensuring even more people can experience the power of music as therapy. Fatboy Slim continues to be personally involved, providing funding, mentorship, and on-site support for sessions, a true reflection of his belief that sound has the power to heal both mind and spirit.
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