Youth mental health sanctuary sees demand rise

Lucy Foley said no appointment was needed and specially trained mental health workers will address ways to deal with problems

A drop-in service for young people struggling with mental health issues has seen numbers doubling every month since it began.

The Young Person's Sanctuary in Milton Keynes, run by Mind BLMK, opened in January for anyone aged between 14 and 17 facing crisis or distress.

It is open every day, from 16:00 to 22:00 at CAMHS Eaglestone Health Centre, to allow young people to attend after school.

Lucy Foley, the centre's delivery manager, said: "They can talk about anything, how they are feeling and the struggles they have."

Michael Green and Lucy Foley work within the community, as well as from the Young Person's Sanctuary

"A lot of young people in schools and the community are struggling with their mental health," Ms Foley said.

"Being distressed is really subjective and it's important to know there is no measure of mental health issues or difficulties."

The service is already making a difference, as in February seven young people attended, doubling to 14 in March - and 20 in April.

"We help young people navigate a way out of issues like self-harm, friendship group problems and low moods," they added.

Young people who were helped said: "I came in feeling really low and now I feel better after our session.

"I never realised that, that coping mechanism could actually help", they said.

The Young Person's Sanctuary is based at Eaglestone Health Centre, Standing Way, Milton Keynes

The team also engages with schools, community centres and wellbeing fairs, with a dedicated youth mental health outreach worker, Michael Green.

"We're out there in the community, talking and engaging with parents. Meeting young people in their worlds," they said.

Some people might "find it daunting" but they should always reach out and "talk to somebody", they added.

"If you can't talk to us, talk with a friend, a trusted adult, a parent, anyone, but reach out and share with someone."

They said every step of help is explained "so they get the support they need".