News

Children and Young People's Mental Health Service (CYPMHS) Partners with Local Churches

In a groundbreaking effort to enhance mental health awareness and accessibility, the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Service Engagement Team has partnered with Edgware District Churches (EDC) to deliver a series of impactful initiatives. Over the past month, the team has conducted mental health awareness talks at EDC and a local primary school, aiming to destigmatise mental health and provide essential psycho-education to the community.

The EDC, a network of over 40 churches, identified the critical need for ongoing mental health education and advocacy within their congregations. In response, the Children and Young People's Service Engagement Team designed tailored mental health awareness sessions to engage church members and the broader community. These sessions have sparked open and informed discussions about mental health issues, fostering a supportive environment.

Opening of the Wellbeing Hub
A significant milestone in this partnership is the establishment of a Wellbeing Hub at the EDC's central headquarters. This hub, a collaborative work between the EDC and CYPMHS Integrated Services, will offer vital mental health support and resources to church members and the local community. The hub is set to open to the public on Friday, August 2nd, and will serve children, young people, and their families associated with the 40 local churches under EDC.

The Well-being Hub, which will be based at Open Heavens Centre, will run weekly by a qualified CYPMHS practitioner , offering consultations, assessments, treatment as well as online psycho-education sessions to young people and their families/carers.

Grand Opening Ceremony
The Wellbeing Hub's grand opening was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the 13 July 2024 , and attended by the Mayor of Barnet and local counsellors. In a gesture of appreciation, the Mayor also presented an award to the Children and Young People's Service Engagement Team, recognising their outstanding contributions to the community, on behalf of the EDC. This event underscores the commitment of both the EDC and CYPMHS to providing accessible, preventive, and responsive mental health care.

This initiative not only expands the reach of mental health awareness but also ensures that support is available in a trusted and familiar setting. The ongoing efforts of the Engagement Team in partnership with CYPMHS Integrative Services in this instance, continue to build strong community connections, promoting mental wellness of children and young people and de-stigmatising mental health. More projects are being developed with other faith groups.

If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please email: king.agyapong1@nhs.net