Youth mental health in isolated, rural Berwick has been identified as a major problem following the pandemic, with greatly increased rates of poor mental health, suicide and self-harm hospital admissions amongst 16-30 year olds. There are many complex factors which have resulted in these significant mental health issues, including poverty, substance abuse and isolation, however one key issue for young people was the lack of age-appropriate opportunities locally, and their barriers to engagement

There is overwhelming evidence that physical activity is beneficial for your mental health. We will provide a programme of local, free to access, weekly activities such as canoeing, clubbercize or boxing, identified by and for young people (12-16). This preventative step will give young people the chance to take ownership of the activity, build confidence, and improve mental health through building connections, a local support network, and also increasing wellbeing through physical exercise.