£2,000 grants for community organisations to engage with young people

The NHS and partners in Merton and Wandsworth are inviting community organisations to apply for grants of up to £2,000 to engage with children and young people about their health and wellbeing.

Voluntary and community organisations are encouraged to put forward plans to gather the views and experiences of children, young people and their families before applications close on 27 March 2024.

We want to support our young people to be happy and healthy – and only by hearing from them directly will we know what’s most important to them.”

Merton and Wandsworth NHS Executive Mark Creelman said: “We want to support our young people to be happy and healthy – and only by hearing from them directly will we know what’s most important to them. This is what this grants programme is all about.”

Research evidence shows that giving every child the best start in life is a major factor in reducing the inequalities gap – unfair differences in health that exist between different groups of people. A child’s early years are vital in laying the foundations for long term future health and wellbeing.

Mark added: “We know the Covid-19 pandemic had a major impact on the mental health, weight and education of children and young people – followed by cost of living concerns. We want to hear from young people about their experiences as well as ideas for what might help.”

Nearly three quarters of children who struggle with their mental health also have a physical health condition or developmental need. Children and young people are more – or less – likely to have good mental health depending on their background and how they grow up.

We want to hear from young people about their experiences as well as ideas for what might help.”

The NHS wants feedback on the factors that influence mental and physical wellbeing and maintaining a healthy weight. This includes support services, the local environment, employment, education, housing and social connections.

In particular, views on the transition from child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) to adult mental health services are invited.

Organisations who work with the boroughs’ diverse communities and can reach out to children, young people and families disproportionately affected by health inequalities are encouraged to apply.

Grants of up to £2,000 can be used to run events, during April, with sessions where young people share their views and stories. These could be focus groups or face-to-face and phone interviews or outdoor activities.

NHS South West London will use the insight and community stories to inform future plans for developing health and care services.