Mental health support for young people , Norfolk

Aim

We want to provide expert one to one support sessions for young people struggling with their mental health in Downham Market, Norfolk.

‘Although this year has been tough and stressful, the Swan Centre has remained one of the places that I feel like I can be myself without judgement with kind leadership and a welcoming environment.'

Here at Swan Youth Project we deliver practical and emotional support to local young people and their families. The children and teenagers we help face significant issues, more than a quarter have mental health needs; West Norfolk has the highest exclusion rate for schools in the whole of Norfolk. 

We work closely with over 150 local young people and offer support in a variety of ways - these range from food and hygiene bank provision, through to small group work (when permitted), online and telephone support, support for parents and one-to-one sessions for our young people who are the most in need. 

This one to one support is vital to mental health and well-being. It gives young people  time and space to consider their feelings and worries and look at how best to deal with situations that arise. The demand for this service since last March has doubled and we are aware that some young people are currently having to wait to be seen by us. We would love to be able to expand our service so that no-one has to wait to be seen. 

Our young people tell us they have been feeling isolated from friends and support and are lacking motivation. Lots are worried about exams and the lack of clarity around what will happen with results. Many struggle to keep up with the school work at home and do not have appropriate space to complete their work. The time to come and see us once a week and have someone listen to them is very important; it means that they are more able to cope with any difficulties that may occur.

This project successfully funded on 23rd March 2021