This story was first published in digitalhealth.net
DfE appoints first mental health champion
Writer and campaigner Natasha Devon was appointed to the role due to her extensive work with young people regarding mental health and body image concerns.
Devon’s work includes launching two organisations, the Self-Esteem Team and the Body Gossip Education Programme, which deliver classes to more than 50,000 teenagers across the UK.
The move comes as a part of wider push to improve children and young people’s mental health, which will see investment of £1.25 billion over the next five years.
Within the new role Devon will champion young people’s mental health, encourage more children to talk about the issues they are dealing with and work to reduce the stigma around the issue.
Education and Childcare Minister Sam Gyimah said: “Ensuring young people have access to good mental health support is vital. That is why we are promoting greater use of counselling in schools, improving teaching about mental health, and supporting joint working between mental health services and schools.
“But we know there is more we can do. Natasha is an inspiration to many young people and I’m delighted to have her on board as our first mental health champion.
“I know that together we can make a real difference in encouraging more young people to talk openly about mental health.”
Natasha Devon said: “I’m so excited by this opportunity to improve the lives of even more young people. At present, three children per average classroom has a diagnosable mental health problem, with many more struggling with undiagnosed conditions such as anxiety.
“This has a tangible impact not only on their happiness, but also on their potential. It’s therefore vital that we can improve the support available for children and teens.
“This is a cause that’s very close to my heart, and I know from personal experience, as well as from the young people I have met, how crucial this work is. I’m looking forward to getting started and making a difference.”
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