I’ve been working in mental health for almost a decade now, and heard heartbreaking story after heartbreaking story about people not being able to get the help and support they need.

However, I feel that this problem is now worse than it has ever been; undoubtedly as a result of the pandemic, but as well as years of government cuts.

As a charity, we recently began giving grants to schools and colleges who needed to bring in urgent mental health support for students, teachers and families.

The messages we have been hearing from schools and colleges are deeply troubling. What really worries me most is the rise in self-harm and attempted suicides amongst young people.

We have to address this NOW. In the words of Nina Simone,

“Do things gradually; bring more tragedy.”

This is why we teamed up with Rankin last month to photograph our phenomenal Youth Board. This incredible group of individuals inspires me every single day. However, all of them had to struggle to get the help they needed for their mental health issues.

It needs to STOP. This is why we’re desperately trying to raise £500,000 so we can fund all the schools and colleges asking us for financial support. Our mental health system is at breaking point - CAMHS recently saw their highest ever number of referrals. It was struggling to cope pre-pandemic. We want to #BrakeTheSystem and bring in 'early intervention’ to the schools and colleges which need it.

If you can help in any way we would be extremely grateful:

https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/now-and...

Thank-you for reading.

Jonny x