A survey published in 2020 alarmingly revealed that one in six children and young people now has a probable mental health disorder. Children’s mental health has been declining for many years due to a number of reasons, including a shortage of service provision, the negative influence of social media, socioeconomic inequality, and more. The COVID-19 pandemic not only exacerbated existing mental health issues, but increased their prevalence overall, with many children left feeling isolated, anxious and cut off from their usual support networks. 
Support for CAMHS
MedEquip4Kids has supported Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) for the past seven years by delivering resources that help in the treatment and care of young people, but are not available from limited budgets. Last year alone we delivered packages of creative and therapeutic resources worth up to £1,000 each to more than 40 Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) teams nationwide. These included paints, pens, arts and crafts materials, toys and props for role-playing, feelings cards, games and more. As the pandemic continues to affect young people’s wellbeing, we are continuing to equip CAMHS throughout 2021 and beyond.
The Hummingbird Project
Launched in 2018, the Hummingbird Project is a six-week course that aims to improve mental health in young people. It was developed by MedEquip4Kids in partnership with psychologists at the University of Bolton and is being delivered free of charge in schools throughout Greater Manchester and Cheshire. So far it has benefited over 1,355 pupils and is returning to schools this autumn.
The scheme is led by trained staff and volunteers, who present a series of six workshops based on concepts of Positive Psychology to help give young people the techniques and tools to become more emotionally resilient. Topics covered include Mental Health and Stigma, Happiness and Wellbeing, Resilience and Character Strengths, Growth Mindsets, Hope and Gratitude, and Mindfulness. Following the course, each school receives a package of resources to help them put their learning into practice.
The Hummingbird Project is evidence-based and constantly evaluated to ensure it is delivering benefits for young people. You can read more about the research background and findings below.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02012/full
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pits.22527
If you can help to fund our mental health projects, please donate now. Thank you.
