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Operation Makesafe

by New ProjectsStopNAsk

Operation Makesafe: Raising Awareness of Child Exploitation in Our Community

At Youth Unity, we are committed to protecting young people and educating the community about the risks they face. One of the growing concerns across the UK is child exploitation a serious issue that often goes unseen. That’s why we’re supporting Operation Makesafe, an initiative focused on helping everyone recognise the signs of exploitation and take action.

What is Operation Makesafe?

Operation Makesafe is a national campaign led by the police in partnership with local authorities and safeguarding teams. Its aim is to raise awareness of child sexual and criminal exploitation, especially in settings where children may be at risk—such as hotels, taxis, takeaways, shopping centres, and public transport.

The key message of Operation Makesafe is simple: child exploitation is everyone’s business.

Why It Matters

Exploitation doesn’t always look like what people expect. It can involve grooming, manipulation, or coercion, and it can happen to any young person, regardless of their background. Offenders often target places where young people spend time or where staff may not be trained to spot the warning signs.

By raising awareness, Operation Makesafe empowers individuals and businesses to become part of the solution identifying potential abuse early and helping to protect vulnerable young people.

What to Look Out For

There are often subtle signs that a young person may be at risk, including:

  • Being with older individuals who seem controlling
  • Appearing anxious, withdrawn, or afraid
  • Arriving at hotels or venues with little luggage or ID
  • Regularly being picked up or dropped off in private vehicles
  • Talking about money, gifts, or situations that seem inappropriate for their age

If something doesn’t feel right report it. Trust your instincts.

How You Can Help

Whether you’re a parent, professional, or member of the public, you have a role to play.

  • Learn the signs of exploitation
  • Talk openly with young people about safety and healthy relationships
  • Report any concerns to the police or safeguarding services

If you’re a business owner or frontline worker, training is available to help you identify risks and respond appropriately. Youth Unity also offers educational sessions and resources for schools, youth groups, and community spaces.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

Operation Makesafe reminds us that protecting young people takes a whole-community approach. By staying informed, looking out for warning signs, and acting when something feels wrong, we can all help to prevent exploitation and keep young people safe.

If you’d like more information or to arrange awareness training through Youth Unity, please get in touch. Let’s work together to build a safer community.

Realistic 3D double cup with Lean. Codeine purple drink, standing and dripping cups collection. Vector set

Dangers of Lean (Purple Drank)

by New ProjectsStopNAsk

Lean: also known as “Purple Drank,” “Sizzurp,” or “Dirty Sprite” is a recreational drink made by mixing codeine-based cough syrup with soft drinks and sometimes sweets or alcohol. While it may appear harmless, Lean poses serious health risks and is illegal to possess or supply without a prescription.

Health Risks and Long-Term Effects:

  • Addiction: The codeine in Lean is an opioid, which can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Mayo Clinic​

  • Respiratory Depression: High doses can slow breathing to dangerous levels, especially when combined with other depressants like alcohol. PubMed​

  • Organ Damage: Regular use can harm the liver, kidneys, and bladder, potentially leading to long-term health issues. Mayo Clinic​

  • Mental Health Issues: Users may experience hallucinations, confusion, and mood disturbances. Catch22​

UK Statistics and Trends:

  • Lean use is rising among UK youth, influenced by social media and music culture. Catch22​

  • In 2022–2023, 0.8% of young people in treatment reported codeine misuse, a slight decrease from previous years. GOV.UK​

  • Due to increasing misuse, codeine linctus has been reclassified as a prescription-only medicine in the UK. GOV.UK​

Legal Implications:

Possessing or supplying codeine without a prescription is illegal in the UK. Penalties can include up to 5 years in prison for possession and up to 14 years for supply, along with unlimited fines. Catch22​

Support and Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with Lean or codeine misuse, support is available:

  • Talk to Frank: Confidential advice on drugs and substance misuse. Catch22​

  • Catch22: Resources and support for young people on substance misuse. Catch22​

  • NHS: Information on codeine and its side effects. nhs.uk​

Early intervention can prevent long-term health issues and legal consequences. Stay informed and seek help if needed.​

Temporary brain activity due to drug abuse, psylocybin brain, ketamine, creativity

The Hidden Risk: Ketamine Abuse Among Children and Teens

by London Borough of Barking & DagenhamNew ProjectsStopNAsk

Raising Awareness: The Dangers of Ketamine Abuse

At Youth Unity, we believe it’s vital to raise awareness around the growing issue of ketamine misuse among young people. What was once considered a club drug is now increasingly being used by school-age children, with alarming trends emerging across the UK.

Ketamine is a powerful dissociative anaesthetic that is cheap, widely accessible, and often appealing to young people due to its short-lived effects. However, its impact on the body can be long-lasting and incredibly harmful.

One of the early warning signs of frequent ketamine use is ketamine-induced cystitis, a painful bladder condition that can cause urinary urgency, frequency, and even permanent bladder damage. In more severe cases, ketamine use can lead to abdominal pain, known as “K-cramps,” and serious injury to the liver, kidneys, and brain.

Startling statistics reveal that nearly 1% of primary school children have already experimented with ketamine, and educators are reporting cases of use during school hours, including break times. This reflects just how accessible and normalised this substance is becoming among young people.

If you are a parent, carer, teacher, youth worker, or a young adult yourself, it’s essential to be informed. Recognising the signs of ketamine use early could help prevent long-term damage and support early intervention.

Signs to look out for may include:

  • Frequent or painful urination

  • Unexplained abdominal pain

  • Noticeable changes in mood or behaviour

  • Memory loss or confusion

  • Disinterest in school, work, or family life

We urge our community to take this issue seriously. Education and open conversations are key to prevention. If you’re concerned about a young person or would like more information, support, or resources, please get in touch with our team at Youth Unity. We’re here to help.

Together, we can work to keep our young people safe and informed.

ENQUIRY FORM
WhatsApp Image 2024-08-22 at 07.52.13

Youth centre closures linked to greater risk of young people entering criminal justice system

by NewsStopNAsk

Source Article: NYA 

Whilst youth services have been cut by 77% over more than a decade, violent offences among young people remain at unacceptably high levels warn the National Youth Agency (NYA), in its latest report, The social cost of youth work cuts: Preventing youth offending through youth work, published at the start of Youth Work Week, from 6 -12 November. Despite these startling figures, it costs four times more for a young person to enter the criminal justice system (£200,000 by the age of 16), than it does for them to avoid it through youth work provision (less than £50,000). (1)

The social cost of youth work report provides an analysis of 74 sources of academic literature and research evidence relating to the impact of youth work on young people in contact with the youth justice system. The report shows a clear association between reduced funding for youth provision and an increase in crime rates for some young people. 

Despite this, open access youth service expenditure has been disproportionately affected by austerity cuts. Furthermore, young people themselves are crying out for safe spaces with 24% of young respondents to a recent survey by the youth charity OnSide, reporting that they do not have a safe space to go to where they feel they belong. (2)

Whilst convictions have fallen by a third, for every 1,000 children in the population, 4.6 are still in the youth justice system, and their needs are becoming increasingly complex in the wake of the pandemic, as mental health rates soar and amid a cost-of-living crisis. (3)

Meanwhile, youth work saves £500 million on public spending through crime reduction alone and social return on investment research reveals that £1 investment in youth work is estimated to return £3.20 – £6.40 of value. (4)

The report cites the 2020 All-Party Parliamentary Group for Knife Crime focused on the impact of youth centre closures across the country, which revealed that each reduction in the number of youth centres corresponded to an increase in knife crime. This trend is echoed in a PhD study, completed earlier this year, which reviewed London youth centre provision published in 2023 by Carmen Villa-Llera, in the Economics Observatory at the University of Warwick. The research found that crime participation amongst 10-15 year olds increased by 10% in those London boroughs affected most by youth centre closures between 2010-2019. Furthermore, young people in these areas are 12% more likely to be suspended from school since the reduction in youth provision. (5)

Examples of where youth work is having a positive impact on youth crime rates, include the Linx Youth Project, Middlesbrough, which saw a significant reduction in crime amongst young people as a result of youth workers delivering support in the community (detached youth work), with the number of first-time entrants to youth justice decreasing by 79% over a four year period from 2016 to 2020. Furthermore, the project evaluation found that the social impact value for the service is £5.50 for every £1 invested. (6)

Meanwhile a Redthread youth work team working in the Emergency Department at St Mary’s hospital has brought about a 59% reduction in young people’s involvement with violence, and 37% reduction in involvement with crime, as a direct result of their engagement with a youth worker in the hospital.  (7)

The launch of The social cost of youth work cuts report from National Youth Agency coincides with their annual Youth Work Week national campaign, which this year is focussing on the added value that youth workers bring to the outcomes of young people through providing their particular support in a range of contexts and professional settings.  

Leigh Middleton, Chief Executive, National Youth Agency, said: “A lack of youth work isn’t just failing our young people, it’s also putting a strain on the public purse. Where youth workers are working in partnership with other allied professionals such as prison officer, youth offending teams, healthcare workers and teachers, we know that they are able to use their particular set of skills to capitalise on that ‘reachable moment’ and work with, and for, the young person to help them recognise that they can make positive choices about their future lives. 

“The NYA is working to build back the skills and capacity of the sector working closely with our academic and training partners, and through schemes such as the DCMS funded bursary and leveraging the government’s apprenticeship levy to enhance opportunities to attract people to youth work and to retain and upskill those already working in the sector.” 

NYA Full Report CLICK HERE 

Conceptual image conveying the potential risks of vaping

Your First Day Without Vaping

by New ProjectsParentingStopNAsk

Youth vaping has tripled in the last three years, and 1 in 5 children have tried vaping. Disposable vapes are clearly linked to the rise of vaping in children. They are cheap and easy to use, with 69% of current vapers aged 11 to 17 in Great Britain using them.

Your first day without vaping can be tough. Here are five steps you can take to handle your quit day.

1. Do Not Vape

On your quit day, the most important thing is that you don’t vape—not even one hit. Having a plan for how you will deal with triggers and urges to vape can make your quit day easier. Take it one day at a time. Focus on getting through today without vaping.

Revisit your quit plan to stay focused and confident during your quit day. If you haven’t made a quit plan yet, it’s not too late. Build your personalised quit plan now.

If you smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products, now is a good time to quit those too. We know it can seem challenging to quit smoking or using other tobacco products at the same time as quitting vaping, but becoming totally tobacco free is the best thing you can do for your health. 

2. Stay Busy

You will probably think about vaping a lot today, which is totally normal. Staying busy will help you keep your mind off vaping, withdrawal symptoms, and cravings. Try some of these activities:

  • Go for a walk, ride a bike, or do your favorite workout.
  • Make a new playlist on your favorite music app.
  • Have gum or sugar-free candy handy.
  • Keep your hands busy with a pen or toothpick, or play a game on your phone.
  • Drink lots of water.
  • Relax with deep breathing.
  • Plan a fun activity with friends and family who do not use vapes or any other tobacco products.

3. Avoid Vaping Triggers

Triggers are the people, places, things, and situations that set off your urge to vape. On your quit day, try to avoid triggers. Here are some tips to help you outsmart some common vaping triggers:

  • Throw away your vapes, e-liquid bottles, pods, and chargers.
  • Go to places where vaping isn’t allowed.
  • Stay off social media accounts that remind you of vaping.
  • Get plenty of rest and eat healthy. Feeling tired or run down can trigger you to vape.
  • Change your routine to avoid the places and things you might associate with vaping.

4. Ask for Help

You don’t have to do this alone. Tell your family and friends when your quit day is. Ask them for support on quit day and in the first few days and weeks after. They can help you get through the rough spots. Let them know exactly how they can support you. For example, ask a friend to help you celebrate your first day being vape-free.

5. Reward Yourself

At the end of the day, reward yourself for being vape-free for 24 hours. You deserve it! It doesn’t have to be a big or expensive reward. Even taking extra time to do a favorite vape-free activity will make you feel good and help you be ready for day two of your quit attempt.

Source Link: Your First Day Without Vaping

More information ...

Common side effects of vaping include coughing, dry mouth and throat, mouth and throat irritation, shortness of breath and headaches. The routines connected to vaping are hard to stop, especially since unlike a cigarette which has an end point, people can vape for long periods of time. Research is still underway to find out the long-term effects of vaping.

If you would like to quit vaping but are finding it hard, here are some steps to gradual reduction over a week with the view to quitting completely:

  • Switch from disposable vapes which can have numerous, harmful chemicals to refillable devices.
  • Gradually reduce the strength of nicotine in in the e-liquid of the refillable device.
  • Extend the time between each vape period.
  • Limit where and when you vape, limiting where and extending when.
  • Set a quit date and stop.

A few quick statistics and facts

  • In 2022 21% of UK teens had vaped in 2013 it was 4.5%10
  • Children and adolescents who vape are more than twice as likely to smoke cigarettes 12
  • Only 40% of parents were aware that their children vaped against 70% for smoking9
  • The nicotine content of one JUUL pod is equivalent to one pack of cigarettes26
  • The nicotine content of one EFL bar is equivalent to 48/50 cigarettes or two and a half packs of cigarettes6
  • Vaping poses a risk to lungs12 – In 2016 nearly 200 e-cigarette users developed severe lung disease in 22 states across USA
  • Vaping often contains nicotine even when the juice is nicotine free13 which is highly addictive and affects brain development particularly in young people7
What happens if you are caught vaping under 18 UK

These new powers to issue Fixed Penalty notices are in addition to a maximum £2,500 fine that courts can already impose. The government will also be providing an additional £30 million a year for enforcement agencies to support work on underage and illicit sales of tobacco products and vapes.

What is the danger of children using vapes?

Children should never vape. The number of children using vapes has tripled in the last three years.

The active ingredient in most vapes is nicotine, which when inhaled, is a highly addictive drug. The addictive nature of nicotine means that a user can become dependent on vapes, especially if they use them regularly.

 

What happens to my body when I stop vaping?

Physical symptoms include “headaches, sweating, tremors, insomnia, increased appetite, abdominal cramps, and constipation,” 

These are the first effects you're likely to feel, often within four to 24 hours after quitting.

MORE INFORMATION
REPORT/RESEARCH
Tips-to-help-your-child-with-the-transition-from-primary-to-secondary-school2

Teachers ‘providing food and clothes’ for disadvantaged pupils

by NewsPress ArticlesStopNAsk
  • SOURCE:
  • Rumeana Jahangir
  • BBC News
  • 25 April 2024

Teachers in the north west of England say they are having to go beyond their remit to give support to disadvantaged pupils, a survey has found.

About 520,000 (43%) pupils are estimated to be experiencing a range of external challenges that are impacting their education, according to the Action for Children charity.

Teachers said they were becoming the first port of call for parents who did not know where to get help, providing emotional support, and even essentials like food and clothing.

The charity has now called on the government to promote the use of family liaison officers in schools and make it a legal requirement for councils to provide early help services.

A spokeswoman for the Department for Education said they were providing “additional support for disadvantaged pupils”.

The Action for Children survey, which gained responses from about 800 teachers in north-west England, reported the most common barriers to education were:

  • living in an unstable family environment (68%)
  • behavioural or emotional issues (65%)
  • mental health challenges (55%)
  • poor attendance (46%)
  • poverty (44%)

‘You worry about them’

Many teachers said they were becoming the first port of call for parents who did not know where to get help.

They said they were increasingly having to go beyond their remit to provide emotional or family support or essentials like food and clothing.

Many teachers said it was hindering their ability to teach and they were experiencing an emotional toll on top of heavy workloads.

One secondary school teacher said: “When you’re not with them you’re worrying about them thinking, even though I feel like I’m at capacity, if I did this extra thing that could really make a difference.”

Just 3% of the region’s teachers polled believed that pupils facing challenges will reach their expected grades by the end of this academic year.

The charity said there was also a north-south divide, with teachers in the north and Midlands more likely than teachers in the south and east to report that at least half of their pupils were experiencing barriers.

Rosie, from Wirral, is someone who has received support from the charity.

It started when she had felt stressed with her school workload which ultimately impacted her relationship with her parents.

The 14-year-old told BBC Merseyside: “I felt that it changed my relationship with my parents but it also meant I had less free time because I was always working to get the homework done so that I wouldn’t get into trouble.”

The charity gave the family somewhere outside of the school environment to turn, when they were given help from external trained workers.

Rosie’s mother, Isabel, said: “We try to be a supportive family and not every family has that.

“But also we are a family where parents work and in order to maintain that life… sometimes you need someone somewhere else to go to.”

Government funding

Helen McKee, Action for Children’s operational director for the North West, said: “In this general election year, it’s vital that all political parties focus on children – including what they need both inside and outside school.”

The charity is calling on government to support all councils to integrate their early help, early intervention and family services so there is “one front door”.

A government spokeswoman said: “We are taking a range of steps to improve attainment and outcomes for all pupils, with additional support for disadvantaged pupils.”

She said they had invested £1bn in tutoring since the pandemic and are increasing pupil premium funding to £2.9 billion in 2024-25.

“This comes on top of our ongoing £10 million Behaviour Hubs programme and £9.5 million for up to 7,800 schools and colleges to train a senior mental health lead.

“Thanks to our fantastic teachers and school leaders, and our package of wide-ranging reforms, there were 440,000 fewer children persistently absent or not attending last year alone.”

Children Vaping. The use of e cigarettes is unsafe for kids, teens, and young adults. Most e cigarettes contain nicotine. Nicotine is highly addictive and can harm adolescent brain development

The Hidden Hazards: Exploring the Dangers of Vaping for Children in the UK

by New ProjectsStopNAsk

Vaping, once hailed as a safer alternative to smoking, has now emerged as a significant public health concern, especially among children and adolescents. Despite efforts to regulate and control its use, vaping among youth in the UK is on the rise, presenting a myriad of health risks and challenges. This report delves into the alarming trends, associated dangers, and urgent need for awareness and action regarding vaping among children in the UK.

The Rising Trend:

In recent years, vaping has gained popularity among children and adolescents in the UK at an alarming rate. Statistics from Public Health England reveal that approximately 16% of 11-18-year-olds in England have tried vaping at least once, with a significant proportion regularly using e-cigarettes. The accessibility, enticing flavors, and perceived coolness factor of vaping products contribute to their widespread appeal among youth.

Health Risks:

Contrary to popular belief, vaping is not harmless. E-cigarettes contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can adversely affect brain development in adolescents, leading to long-term cognitive and behavioral impairments. Additionally, the aerosols produced by vaping devices contain harmful chemicals, including carcinogens and toxic metals, which pose serious health risks, such as respiratory problems and cardiovascular diseases.

Gateway to Smoking:

Studies suggest that vaping serves as a gateway to conventional smoking among young individuals. Experimenting with e-cigarettes at a young age increases the likelihood of transitioning to traditional tobacco products, perpetuating the cycle of nicotine addiction and exacerbating the public health burden of smoking-related illnesses.

Regulatory Challenges:

Despite stringent regulations aimed at curbing youth vaping, enforcement remains a significant challenge. The proliferation of online sales, marketing tactics targeting youth, and the emergence of discreet vaping devices further complicate efforts to regulate the industry effectively. Addressing these regulatory gaps and implementing robust measures to restrict youth access to vaping products are imperative to safeguarding the health and well-being of children in the UK.

Educational Initiatives:

Preventing and mitigating the harms of vaping among children necessitates comprehensive educational initiatives targeting both youth and their parents. Schools play a pivotal role in raising awareness about the risks associated with vaping and promoting healthy behaviors among students. Furthermore, empowering parents with accurate information and resources to address vaping-related issues with their children is essential in fostering open dialogue and encouraging informed decision-making.

Conclusion:

The surge in vaping among children in the UK represents a pressing public health challenge that demands immediate attention and concerted action. By understanding the risks, advocating for effective regulations, and prioritising education and prevention efforts, we can work together to protect our youth from the insidious dangers of vaping and ensure a healthier future for generations to come.

Vaping poses several health risks, including:

Nicotine Addiction: E-cigarettes contain nicotine, an addictive substance that can lead to dependence, especially in young users whose brains are still developing. Nicotine addiction can have long-term implications on cognitive function and behavior.

Respiratory Issues: Vaping aerosols contain harmful chemicals, including ultrafine particles, volatile organic compounds, and heavy metals, which can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Cardiovascular Health: Nicotine exposure from vaping can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes, particularly in individuals with underlying health conditions.

Lung Damage: Inhalation of vaping aerosols can lead to lung inflammation and damage, contributing to conditions like bronchiolitis obliterates (popcorn lung) and increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Chemical Exposure: E-cigarette liquids and aerosols contain a cocktail of chemicals, many of which are known carcinogens and toxins. Prolonged exposure to these substances can have detrimental effects on overall health and increase the risk of developing cancer and other serious illnesses.

Adolescent Brain Development: Nicotine exposure during adolescence can interfere with brain development, impairing cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and impulse control. This can have lasting effects on academic performance and social behavior.

Gateway to Smoking: Research suggests that vaping may serve as a gateway to conventional smoking, with young e-cigarette users more likely to experiment with traditional tobacco products. This perpetuates the cycle of nicotine addiction and poses a significant public health concern.

Accidental Exposure: The liquid nicotine used in e-cigarettes can be toxic if ingested or absorbed through the skin, posing a risk of poisoning, especially among children and pets.

If you’re under 16 and addicted to vaping in the UK, there are several places you can turn to for help:

Talk to a Trusted Adult: Reach out to a parent, guardian, teacher, school counselor, or another trusted adult who can provide support and guidance. They can help you access appropriate resources and support services.

Speak with a Healthcare Professional: Schedule an appointment with your family doctor, pediatrician, or a healthcare provider specializing in adolescent health. They can offer confidential advice, assess your vaping habits, and provide assistance tailored to your needs.

Contact Support Services: Organisations such as Childline (0800 1111) and FRANK (0300 123 6600) offer free, confidential support and advice to young people dealing with substance abuse issues, including vaping addiction.

You can speak with trained counselors who can listen to your concerns and provide guidance on how to seek help.

Utilise Online Resources: Websites like the NHS Smokefree website and Talk to Frank provide valuable information, resources, and self-help tools for individuals looking to quit vaping or overcome nicotine addiction. You can access information on vaping risks, cessation strategies, and support services available in your area.

Seek Peer Support: Consider reaching out to friends, classmates, or online support groups who may be experiencing similar challenges with vaping addiction. Sharing your experiences and seeking encouragement from peers can be empowering and reassuring.

Remember, it’s essential to reach out for help and support when struggling with addiction, regardless of your age. You’re not alone, and there are people and resources available to assist you in overcoming vaping addiction and leading a healthier life.

Blue light flasher atop of a police car. City lights on the background.

Stop and Search, A guide for young people

by New ProjectsStopNAsk

When Can the Police Stop and Search You?

Police must have “reasonable grounds” to suspect you’re carrying:

  • Illegal drugs

  • A weapon

  • Stolen property

  • Something that could be used to commit a crime

In certain cases, like at big events or in areas with higher crime, officers can stop and search you without needing specific suspicion. These are called Section 60 searches and have additional rules.

Know Your Rights

  • You can ask why you’re being searched  the officer must explain the reason.

  • You can ask for their name, badge number, and the police station they’re based at.

  • You’re entitled to a copy of the search record  this can be given to you on the spot or sent later.

  • You don’t have to give your name or address unless you’re being reported for an offence.

  • You have the right to film or record the search, as long as you don’t interfere with the process.

How to Handle the Situation

  • Stay calm take deep breaths and keep your voice steady.

  • Make eye contact it shows confidence.

  • Be polite you can assert your rights without being aggressive.

  • Record the interaction if you feel uncomfortable  it’s legal to do so.

Staying calm and respectful doesn’t change your rights, but it can help prevent the situation from escalating.

If You Feel the Search Was Unfair

If you believe the search was discriminatory, aggressive, or unlawful:

  • Write down everything you remember including the officer’s details, time, and location.

  • Ask for and keep your copy of the search record.

  • You have the right to make a complaint to the police or get support from organisations like StopWatch or Liberty.

We’re Here for You

Stop and Search can be a difficult experience, but knowing your rights puts you in a stronger position. If you’ve been stopped and need someone to talk to, or want help understanding what happened, Youth Unity is here to support you.

Useful Resources:

sad young boy sitting on the floor with text stop bullying written with chalk on chalkboard. social problems of humanity

Help with Bullying

by StopNAsk

How to Get Help with Bullying

Talk to Someone You Trust:

It’s okay to share your feelings. Talk to a grown-up you trust, like a parent, teacher, or school counselor. They’re there to help.

Know It’s Not Your Fault:

Bullying is never your fault. Remember, you didn’t do anything wrong.

Describe What’s Happening:

Explain what’s going on. Tell them who is involved, where it happens, and what they say or do.

Be Brave and Strong:

It’s important to be brave and stand up for yourself. You can say things like, “Stop!” or “I don’t like that.” If you don’t feel safe, it’s okay to walk away.

Stay with Friends:

Being with friends can help you feel safer and happier. They can support you.

Online Safety:

If the bullying happens online, block or report the person. Don’t share personal info and remember that you can always talk to a grown-up about it.

Keep a Bullying Diary:

Write down what happens, when it happens, and who’s involved. It helps grown-ups understand and help.

Be a Good Friend:

Be kind and make friends with others. Being a good friend is cool, and it can stop bullies

Stay Strong:

You are strong, and you can get through this. Believe in yourself, and know that things will get better.

Love and Support:

Your family loves you, and they’re there to support you. You’re never alone, and they will help you.

Remember, talking to someone you trust is the most important step. You don’t have to face bullying on your own. We care about you, and we want to help.

Unhappy young mother embracing upset little curly daughter with virus mask, sitting on windowsill at home, consoling sad preschool girl. Concept of coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic disease symptoms

Mental Health, challenges in a post covid world

by StopNAsk

Coping with mental health challenges during and after the COVID-19 pandemic has been a significant concern for young people, including those under the age of 16, in London and around the world. The impact of the pandemic on young people’s mental health can vary widely, but several common themes have emerged:

Social Isolation: Lockdowns and social distancing measures have led to social isolation, which can be particularly challenging for young people. The lack of in-person social interactions with peers and teachers has been a source of stress and loneliness.

Disrupted Education: The closure of schools and the shift to remote learning have disrupted the educational routines of young people. This change can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and feelings of uncertainty about their academic progress.

Family Stress: The pandemic has brought about financial and emotional stress in many households. Young people may be affected by family issues, such as job loss, illness, or strained relationships.

Fear and Uncertainty: The uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, including concerns about personal and family health, can contribute to anxiety and stress in young people.

Digital Overload: Increased screen time due to remote learning, socializing, and entertainment can lead to digital fatigue and potential mental health challenges.

Access to Mental Health Services: Access to mental health services has been disrupted for some young people, leading to difficulties in seeking support.

To address these challenges, various organisation’s, schools, and healthcare providers in London have taken steps to support the mental health of young people:

Schools have been providing mental health and well-being resources, counselling, and support to students. They have also adapted their teaching methods to better address emotional and social needs.

Online Resources: Many organisations and mental health services have offered online resources and virtual counselling to ensure young people can access support from home.

Community Programs: Community organisations and youth centres have developed programs to engage young people and promote social connections.

Parental Support: Encouraging open communication between parents and young people is crucial. Parents can provide a supportive environment for discussing emotions and stressors.

Government Initiatives: The government and local authorities in London have implemented initiatives to support the mental health of young people and their families during and after the pandemic.

It’s essential for parents, teachers, and caregivers to remain vigilant and provide a safe space for young people to express their feelings and seek help when needed. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, it is advisable to reach out to mental health professionals or organisations that can provide the necessary support and resources. Additionally, it’s important to stay informed about the latest local mental health services and resources available in London.

In London, there are various resources available to support young people dealing with mental health challenges. Here are some organisations, helplines, and services that can provide assistance and guidance:

YoungMinds: YoungMinds is a UK-based charity that focuses on improving the mental health and emotional well-being of young people. They offer resources, information, and a helpline for young people and their families. Visit their website at YoungMinds.

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS): CAMHS provides mental health support for children and young people in the UK. They offer assessments, treatments, and therapies. Referrals to CAMHS are typically made through a GP or school.

Kooth: Kooth is an online mental health platform for young people in the UK. It offers free, anonymous counseling and emotional support. You can access Kooth at Kooth.

MIND: offers a range of mental health services, including youth well-being services. They provide support for young people through various programs and resources.

Samaritans: While not specific to young people, Samaritans provides a 24/7 helpline for individuals in distress. You can call them at 116 123 (free from any phone) or visit their website at Samaritans.

Shout: Shout is a crisis text line available 24/7 for people in crisis. While not exclusive to young people, it can be a helpful resource. Text “SHOUT” to 85258 to connect with a trained crisis volunteer.

Off the Record: Off the Record provides mental health support to young people in South London. They offer counseling, workshops, and online resources. Visit their website at Off the Record.

Anna Freud Centre: The Anna Freud Centre offers a wide range of resources and services for children and young people’s mental health. They provide information, training, and support. Visit their website at Anna Freud Centre.

Local NHS Services: Many London boroughs have specific NHS services for child and adolescent mental health. You can inquire about these services through your GP or local healthcare provider

Local Support Services: Depending on the specific area within London, there may be local support services, youth centers, and community organizations that provide mental health support. It’s worth checking with your local council for information on these resources.

It’s important to remember that reaching out for support is a positive step, and there are professionals and organizations in London dedicated to helping young people with their mental health challenges. If you or someone you know is in crisis or requires immediate help, please contact emergency services or go to the nearest hospital.