Princes William and Harry have backed a regional daily campaign aimed at ending the stigmatisation of people with mental health issues.

The princes have commended the Yorkshire Evening Post’s #SpeakYourMind mental health campaign for “vitally highlighting” the need to break down stigma in Leeds by talking openly.

The campaign was set up in October by former YEP editor Nicola Furbisher, who said the media had reinforced “damaging” stigmas in the past – but added she wants it to become “part of the solution rather than adding to the problem.”

Officially backing the cause, a spokesperson from Kensington Palace for the princes said: “The Yorkshire Evening Post’s #SpeakYourMind campaign is playing a commendable role in Leeds by challenging and breaking down the stigma that surrounds the important topic of mental health.

“By encouraging readers to share their personal struggles, the paper is vitally highlighting just how powerful talking openly about mental health challenges can be.

“Their Royal Highnesses applaud the fantastic work that is taking place across the country encouraging people to have open conversations with one another about their mental wellbeing. It is vital that fear of judgement does not prevent people from getting the help they need.”

Nicola’s successor Hannah Thaxter added: “We are absolutely delighted to have this recognition. The work their Royal Highnesses are doing with Heads Together, chimes perfectly with our campaign.

“It is something we, at the YEP, believe passionately about. If we can make a difference to how people feel about mental health problems, and if we can encourage more people to speak openly about the issue then the campaign will be doing its job.”