NHS Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and British Transport Police are working in partnership for World Mental Health Day (10 October) to raise awareness of MindMate, a Leeds based mental health resource for young people. They will be backing the Young Minds #HelloYellow campaign by handing out yellow wrist bands at Leeds train station from 3.30 to 6pm on 10 October.
It is estimated that around 25,000 young people in Leeds are likely to have a mental health issue or need support with their emotional wellbeing (1). The most vulnerable young people, such as those in care, are at a greater risk of poor mental health than others and this can significantly affect life chances later in life such as education, work, and physical health (2).
Lorna McEwan, Chief Inspector for the British Transport Police Leeds District, said: “We are delighted to work with NHS Leeds CCG to raise awareness of MindMate because we think it is a fantastic resource. In our work we come across young people who need emotional support every day and we are trained to deal with these situations. It is very sad to see. We encourage young people who are suffering from poor mental health to speak to others about how they are feeling. This can be the first step to getting the help that they need.”
Philomena Corrigan, Chief Executive at NHS Leeds CCG said: “We are thrilled to be working with British Transport Police to raise awareness of MindMate. Young people’s emotional wellbeing is extremely important because mental health problems can significantly affect life chances later in life. I understand that life can be challenging for a young person. The most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone and looking for advice and support is the right thing to do.”
Councillor Lisa Mulherin, Executive Member for Children and Families, Leeds City Council said: “In Leeds we want children and young people to feel supported. MindMate has been developed with young people using their own experience to help others access mental health support when and where they need it. NHS Leeds CCG and British Transport Police working together to raise awareness of the MindMate website is a great example of our citywide commitment to better mental health.”
Gage, MindMate Ambassador, said: “World Mental Health day is a really important opportunity to show your support and raise awareness for something that affects all of us. It is incredibly difficult to speak out and open up about mental health, but from my own experiences having honest discussions and knowing people around me are understanding makes the world of difference. MindMate was there for me throughout, which is why I care so much about supporting them and their mission. You can donate to the Young Minds if you can, or use #helloyellow and wear yellow to raise awareness for World Mental Health Day.”
Notes
(1) Future In Mind: Leeds strategy https://www.leedsccg.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Future-in-Mind-Leeds-Strategy-FULL-VERSION.pdf
(2) Future in Mind: Leeds Health Needs Assessment November 2016 https://www.mindmate.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/FiM-Leeds-2016-HNA_final.pdf
Mindmate
The MindMate website offers support and useful resources for young people, their families, carers and the healthcare professionals who support them.
It was developed by NHS Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) as part of the ‘Future in Mind: Leeds’ strategy to improve the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people across the city.
British Transport Police
We are the national police force for the railways. Every day, we police the journeys of more than six million passengers. Our aim is to get you home safe, secure and on time. Report a crime or incident on 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016. In an emergency call 999.
Young Minds – #helloyellow
To support Young Mind’s #helloyellow campaign you can donate online at https://youngminds.org.uk/donate/ or text YMHY00 £5 to 70070.
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Issued by the communications team at NHS Leeds CCG. You can contact the team on 0113 84 35528 or 0113 84 35470. Alternatively please email us: [email protected]