i-THRIVE > Transforming Care: i-THRIVE in Action Across Kent and Medway > Case Study: i-THRIVE Champions – Driving System Change for Young People in Kent and Medway

Case Study: i-THRIVE Champions – Driving System Change for Young People in Kent and Medway 

Overview 

In Kent and Medway, a dynamic network of i-THRIVE Champions is leading the way in transforming mental health support for children and young people. These champions—drawn from diverse professional backgrounds—are implementing the i-THRIVE Framework to create a more integrated, needs-led, and person-centred system. 

The Challenge 

Mental health services for children and young people often struggle with fragmentation, rigid pathways, and a lack of shared language. There was a clear need for a coordinated approach that could adapt to individual needs and promote early intervention. 

Catalyst for Change 

The i-THRIVE Champions recognised that meaningful change required more than policy—it needed people. By developing a Theory of Change and delivery strategy for Kent, they laid the foundation for a system-wide transformation rooted in collaboration, compassion, and continuous improvement. 

Co-Designing the Solution 

Champions worked directly with children and young people to establish a shared understanding of emotional wellbeing. They also collaborated across sectors—health, education, VCSE, and local authority—to co-create tools and frameworks that support i-THRIVE-aligned practice. 

Notable initiatives include: 

  • The Kent and Medway VCSE Competency Framework 
  • The Self-Harm Guidance 
  • The Children and Young Persons Partnership (Triple D+S) Forum 

Key Innovations 

i-THRIVE Champions play a multifaceted role: 

  • Advocates for Change: Promoting the i-THRIVE Framework and its benefits across the system. 
  • Project Leaders: Initiating and supporting improvement projects tailored to local needs. 
  • Mentors and Role Models: Inspiring others to adopt person-centred approaches. 
  • Continuous Improvers: Using data and feedback to refine service delivery. 
  • Connectors: Strengthening relationships and communication across services. 

Making It Work 

  1. Promoting Needs-Led Practice

Champions have shifted the focus from fitting children into services to tailoring support around individual needs. This has led to greater flexibility and responsiveness. 

  1. Strengthening Partnerships

Through consultation lines, joint initiatives, and emotional wellbeing workshops, champions have fostered deeper collaboration across sectors. Organisations report feeling more connected, heard, and confident in meeting young people’s needs. 

  1. Building Workforce Capacity

Champions have led district and county-wide workshops that build staff competence and confidence. These sessions embed early identification and response to emotional wellbeing needs, aligning practice with i-THRIVE principles. 

Looking Ahead 

The work of i-THRIVE Champions continues to evolve. Their influence is helping to embed a culture of shared decision-making, proactive prevention, and holistic support across Kent and Medway. As more organisations embrace the i-THRIVE Framework, the ripple effect of their leadership grows. 

Conclusion 

i-THRIVE Champions are leading system change in Kent and Medway. By modelling compassionate care, driving innovation, and amplifying young voices, they are reshaping the landscape of mental health support—ensuring every child and young person receives the right help, in the right place, at the right time. 

 

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