Together we can help our young people become healthy
A devastating adolescent mental health crisis is happening all around us. But the systems — the responsible adults, the schools or the community groups and volunteers — can learn skills to make a lasting difference, says trauma-informed children’s charity Kids Inspire.
Kids Inspire focuses its services on improving the mental health of young people and in an effort to change the landscape, the charity offers tools to empower key individuals (the systems around a child) to empower key individuals (the systems around a child) alongside its bespoke trauma-informed therapy help.
14-year-old Joseph – an expert by experience – recently shared: “It’s easier for young people to open up to someone they aren’t familiar with. It’s easier to open up as there is a sense of freedom and less fear of judgement.”
In recognition of the ‘power of systems make up a child’s world, Kids Inspire offers an online training course (funded by the National Lottery) entitled Understanding and Supporting Children and Young People Affected by Trauma. It is for everyone supporting young people as well as the family that surrounds them.
CEO and Clinical Director, Sue Bell OBE describes the training as follows: “Accessible to everyone, no prior knowledge is required. This course provides an introduction to mental health and trauma-based practice where we ask: ‘What happened to you?’
rather than ‘what’s wrong with you?’ The tools of stabilization will be shared alongside a basic understanding of the traumatized brain, attachment theory, and interventions that support recovery.”
Beverly Swan has been giving young people their time as volunteers for four years. After retiring, she completed Kids Inspire’s trauma-focused training as an assistant principal at a large secondary school. Beverley volunteers each week with young people in her community to thrive emotionally, socially and educationally. Busy lives and the financial pressures on families and governments mean there are times when shortages arise.”
“Personally, I have found volunteering with young people to be very enriching. Chatting with them, listening to their stories and hearing about the life of their generation today is enlightening. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, but always a time to look forward to and learn from.”
Kids Inspire is hosting its next online program, “Understanding and Supporting Children and Youth Affected by Trauma,” on Tuesday, February 7 during Child Mental Health Awareness Week, February 6-12, 2023.
For more information on this story or to speak to someone who will be featured, please contact emily@kidsinspire.org.uk or call them on 01245 348707.
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