Case Study: Youth Mental Health Forum
Overview
The Youth Mental Health Forum is a youth-led space for 11–17-year-olds in Kent with lived experience of mental health challenges, whether they are receiving support or waiting for it. It was created in response to young people’s feedback that their voices were missing in how services were designed and delivered.
Originally formed as the i-THRIVE Young Persons Group—where members developed the “everyone has a different story” strapline and logo—the forum has evolved into a platform shaped by young people’s own priorities.
Insights from youth groups, NHS consultations, surveys, and focus groups showed that young people felt disconnected from decision-making, and professionals lacked meaningful feedback on whether support was effective.
Coordinated by Kent County Council’s i THRIVE and Participation team, in partnership with Kent and Medway NELFT’s participation lead, the forum brings together professionals and voluntary sector partners to listen, offer training, and co-produce resources with young people.
i-Thrive in Action
- Shared Decision Making: Young people lead the forum by setting agendas, choosing discussion topics, and co-facilitating meetings, with professionals present only to support. Together they have co-created ground rules and developed resources such as the Triple D&S leaflet and self-harm guidance. Current projects include a video on supporting friends who self-harm, a “what to expect before your first appointment” guide, and a toolkit for those waiting for support. A core part of the forum is acting on feedback. Young people’s views are taken to monthly meetings with service leaders, resulting in real changes—for example, adding practical coping strategies to self-harm guidance and involving young people in creating supporting visuals. Requests for more anonymous support led to a confidentiality working group, and questions sent to Kooth were answered directly and shared with the group, reinforcing a transparent “you said, we did” approach.
- Accessibility: Activities such as scavenger hunts, creative workshops, and icebreakers help young people connect, share experiences, and build confidence. Early challenges around recruitment and meeting-related anxiety were addressed by introducing Youth Mental Health First Aiders, using regular icebreakers, and rotating meeting locations to improve accessibility.
- Needs Led: Young people connect and support each other through shared experiences and practical activities.
- Common Language: Professionals have adapted their language and approaches to be more youth-friendly, and feedback from all involved has been overwhelmingly positive.
“It’s a safe space where I can be myself & make a difference.”
“I loved meeting new people and sharing my story.”
“It feels like I’m part of something.”
“Meeting people who understand me.”
“I enjoyed putting myself out there because I feel safe.”
“I liked the activities that encouraged interactions and welcoming staff.”
“It’s hard to talk about how I feel, but this forum made it easier.”
“Meeting new people and sharing/recording my mental health story.”
“I enjoyed finding a supportive group who care for other opinions and ideas.”
“I met a lot of new people that related to what I’m going through. It feels like I’m part of something.”
“The icebreakers help me feel less anxious before we start.”
Conclusion and Next Steps
The Forum has directly influenced services and fostered a supportive peer network among young people. Key lessons include the importance of starting with young people’s needs, remaining flexible, and always closing the feedback loop to show how their voices make a difference.
There are plans to expand the forum, potentially creating Kent area-based groups,
involving more schools and community organisations.