The Journey to Mental Health Advocacy for Young People

Introduction:

Following a recent redundancy, I decided to take a leap of faith and set up my own business, with mental health at the heart of everything I do. Mental health support for young people is severely lacking, and the barriers to access are higher than they should be. This is a gap I’m determined to help bridge.

The Mental Health Crisis for Young People:

Mental health is paramount for individuals to succeed in relationships, education, and life in general. Yet, in today’s world, young people are facing unprecedented challenges to their mental well-being. The systems in place to provide support are overwhelmed, leaving many without the help they desperately need. The current state of mental health services for children and young people simply isn’t good enough. I’ve seen first-hand how delays in access to mental health care impact families and young people, often leaving them feeling isolated, unheard, and misunderstood.

Why I Started The Birds Nest Consultancy:

As someone with over 20 years of experience in education and a Master’s in Psychology, I believe that every child deserves to be heard, understood, and supported. Children aren’t “naughty” - they are communicating through their behaviour, often signalling a deeper need for support. I wanted to create a space where both children and their families feel safe, supported, and empowered to manage mental health challenges. At The Birds Nest Consultancy, I work to provide that understanding and ensure families have access to the right resources.

Making Education Inclusive and Accessible:

One of the greatest concerns I’ve seen in my work is the number of children who are missing in education or who have become school refusers. This is not just an issue for families - it’s a systemic problem. Children are being left behind in an educational system that doesn’t always accommodate their mental health needs. I believe education should be inclusive and accessible for all. It’s time to work towards meaningful change and ensure no child slips through the cracks.

Moving Forward:

Setting up this business was a huge step, but one I believe in wholeheartedly. My aim is to create a positive impact, not just for the young people I work with, but for their families and communities as well. Good mental health is key to building healthy relationships, succeeding in education, and thriving in life. If we can improve access to mental health support and make education truly inclusive, we give children the tools they need to succeed.

Closing Thoughts:

This is only the beginning of my journey, and I hope to create lasting change in the way we approach mental health and education. If you believe that every child deserves to be heard and supported, please reach out. Together, we can make a difference.