Schools Mental Health Pilot
Stoke-on-Trent is one of many areas of the country where young people are struggling with their mental health. 12.8% of 5-19 year olds have a mental health disorder.
In Spring 2022, Together Active piloted a physical activity programme, specifically targeting young people at risk of developing or worsening mental illness, with the aim of proving the impact of activity as a prevention tool.
The programme was co-designed with two schools which met our selection criteria:
- Within the boundaries of Stoke-on-Trent
- High proportion of pupils with English as a second language
- High proportion of pupils on Free School Meals
- Linked to the Schools Mental Health Team
And with young people who met our targeting criteria:
- Currently in years 8 or 9
- Within an area with a low score on indices of multiple deprivation
- On the CAMHS waiting list or at risk of being referred
- Low level mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, and low self confidence
Read the Report
The results were clear. Wellbeing was improved following delivery of the sessions, with the greatest impact being on confidence, feeling useful, self-esteem and feeling relaxed. Many young people also developed their social networks and felt more supported with their mental health.
We are now looking to deliver a wider pilot at county level across Staffordshire to gain further insights and strengthen the proof of concept of this form of intervention.
We are committed to creating opportunities for more people to access the support they need in the way which works best for them.
To find out more about our work, or join us on our mission, please contact us: hello@togetheractive.org
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