On Saturday, 4 March, young people living in Surrey along with their families and carers are invited to attend a free, ticketed event focused on mental health and wellbeing in Guildford.

 

The Surrey Spring Wellbeing Festival offers attendees the opportunity to talk to a wide range of experts working in different mental health services provided by the NHS and third sector organisations. The festival will include arts and crafts activities and a wellbeing-themed treasure hunt which includes prizes and refreshments.

 

The festival is hosted by Amplify, which represents the voices of children and young people on the leadership board for Mindworks Surrey, the emotional wellbeing and mental health service for children and young people in Surrey. Mindworks Surrey is led by Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with other NHS and third sector providers. Amplify advises and guides the Mindworks Surrey board on operational issues to make sure that the services provided are the best they can be in meeting the needs of children and young people.

 

Attendees will receive a booklet offering tips to manage mental health and wellbeing, written by the young people of Amplify. There will be stalls manned by mental health experts from Mindworks Surrey, including Surrey and Borders Partnership, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, Barnardo’s, Learning Space and National Autistic Society as well as other organisations such as Greenhub, Sound Bath and Family Intervention Service.

 

Amplify lead, Freya Selman said: “This event is about bringing mental health and wellbeing into the mainstream for children, young people and their families. Our message is that it’s okay to not feel okay and that it’s important to reach out for help early on.

 

“People attending the event will be able to talk to a range of mental health experts who will share their knowledge about mental health and wellbeing and the support available. We want to break down barriers to help people access the support they need in a fun and welcoming environment.”

 

There will be an opportunity for attendees to share their hopes for the future of mental healthcare in Surrey, and these will be addressed in a closing speech by the Chief Executive of Surrey and Borders Partnership, Graham Wareham.

 

Graham Wareham said: “This event is a great opportunity for providers of mental health and wellbeing support in Surrey to come together and provide advice and guidance. I look forward to hearing some of the views and hopes of the people attending the event and sharing the work we are doing to ensure we can best support young people in Surrey.”

 

The Surrey Spring Wellbeing Festival will take place on Saturday 4 March, 11am - 3pm at Guildford County School, Farnham Road, Guildford, GU2 4LU. Please book your free place using this Eventbrite link.