09 February 2026
-
Children’s Mental Health Week 2026 runs nationally 9-15 February; theme: ‘This is my place’
-
One client said: “I have achieved goals I never thought I would have achieved, and I've also learnt so much about myself. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself that this is a safe place with safe, kind people”
-
More than 80% of those who finish the programme reported increased mental wellbeing
To mark Children’s Mental Health Week 2026, WithYou is celebrating the impact of its Mind and Body programme in Kent, which provides free specialist mental health support to young people and their families.
Mind and Body works in schools and the community, and combines small group sessions and individual therapeutic support for young people ages 13-18 experiencing anxiety, low moods, self-harm, panic, trauma, and other mental health struggles.
The programme creates a safe, non-judgemental space where young people can be open about their experiences, learn coping strategies, and speak to people their own age who understand what they’re going through.
One client said:
"In the group setting, you can speak up about how you feel and you will not be judged for it, everyone in the room understands you. My experiences overall have been brilliant. I have achieved goals I never thought I would have achieved, and I've also learnt so much about myself. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself that this is a safe place with safe, kind people who you can say how you feel. You will be supported and comforted.”
Mind and Body also helps parents and carers whose children are struggling, with specialist support available for those with children as young as four.
One parent said, “It’s nice to not feel alone and know that there are other parents in a similar situation.”
Katie Fenn, service manager for Kent Mind and Body, said:
“The theme for this Children’s Mental Health Week - ‘This is my place’ - is an important reminder that children need safe spaces where they can talk openly about their mental health without fear of judgement, and get the help they need.
“WithYou’s Mind and Body programme shows what’s possible when young people are given the right support at the right time - they develop coping skills, they build confidence, and realise they’re not alone.
“The outcomes we’re seeing reflect the impact: more than 80% of those who finish the course reported increased mental wellbeing, and said that self-harming thoughts and actions decreased. These numbers represent real young people in Kent whose lives have been changed for the better.”
