Mental Health Resource- an award-winning, local mental health charity based in West Kent, offer free ‘Reachout Youth’ groups – which are weekly wellbeing sessions for young people aged 13-19, who would like some support with their emotional wellbeing.

During the pandemic they have adapted their services and are currently running groups on Zoom, alongside phone, text and email support. They have been sending out art packs filled with all the materials needed for their creative sessions.

Young people can make new friends, take part in fun activities, learn tools and resources to manage their wellbeing, develop coping strategies, improve their confidence & self-esteem and feel part of a community.

The groups offer young people a confidential, supportive and inclusive space to share things not usually shared with friends or family while reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. Sessions are informal and focus on wellbeing, including activities, games and discussions on themes surrounding mental health. They also invite guest speakers to deliver sessions on specialist subjects.

Mental Health Resource and Reachout Youth are hugely grateful to BBC Children in Need for their ongoing support. We hope to meet in person again in the near future and we plan to increase the number of young people supported through the sessions; but it is only because of the support of organisations, like BBC Children in Need, that our Reachout Youth team are able to reach young people who deserve to believe in themselves and receive person-centred care for their emotional wellbeing.