The Jewish Association for the Mentally Ill celebrated the start of its 25th year in style, raising £200,000 with a champagne tea at the Savoy Hotel.

Shadow public health minister Luciana Berger, told the audience: "Mental health is an issue I am so passionate about.

"I have a very deep appreciation for the work that Jami does to support what are some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

"The services that Jami offers are so important and make such a huge difference. Thanks to the work of Jami, more and more Jewish people are able to get the help they need."

Chairman Douglas Krikler talked about the charity's "remarkable achievements," noting how "1,200 individuals are cared for, each with their own story, their own struggle and their own opportunity - thanks to Jami - to begin the journey towards recovery, whatever that means to them."

Jami's chief executive Laurie Rackind said: "Thanks to all of you here this afternoon, Jami's education team is able to work with school pupils to educate and raise awareness that people need to get help early.

"This is essential, as evidence shows that even for the most psychotic conditions, early intervention can enable recovery in 80 per cent of cases."

He went on to say: "With your help we will continue to work with schools, universities and youth movements, until young people feel able to speak about mental health, get help early, and do not have to be brave to share their experiences."

One of the aministration staff, Natalie Gotel, 24, revealed how she had struggled with depression before she volunteered for Jami.

She spoke about how the charity helped her come back from rock bottom while she was at university, telling the audience: "I have a real sense of the true value of Jami's work in our community. I feel better about myself. I have come a long way. I am able to lead a full life."