Publish date: 11 September 2023
The Mental health integrated network team (MINT) have launched a new mentoring programme in partnership with children and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS), Advantage mentoring, Brentford Football Club Community Sports Trust (BFCCST) and QPR in the Community Trust (QPRCT). Advantage Mentoring is a national programme, comprising of partnerships between Club Community Organisations (CCOs), and their local NHS Trusts.
The programme has been designed by senior NHS clinicians and CCO staff to increase access to CAMHS/MINT teams to help tackle waiting times and reduce health inequalities for the local community. The programme offers weekly 1-2-1 mentoring support for young people aged 14-21 with moderate mental health and emotional wellbeing support needs, that are unable or unwilling to access direct CAMHS/MINT support.
The young people receive weekly 1-2-1 mentoring sessions with qualified staff at BFCCST and QPRCT with expertise in mental health, youth work and mentoring. Sessions support young people by using a goals-based approach with an aim to improve life opportunities and overall wellbeing.
MINT 16-25 Senior pathway coordinators team – Jade, Jemma and Orphia
Meet Jemma, Jade and Orphia 16-25 Senior pathway coordinators, we asked them to tell us about the work they do and how it supports the delivery of the Advantage mentoring programme.
What does the Senior Pathway Coordinator role entail?
We are located across Trust sites, serving each locality within the Mental Health Integrated network teams (MINT) across Ealing, Hounslow, Hammersmith and Fulham.
The role of the senior pathway coordinator is to ensure that 16-25 year olds are supported in their mental health journey. Support is offered in various ways; ensuring a smooth transition from CAMHS to MINT, a 1:1 consultation with the young person’s named worker, discussions at the twice monthly YAP panels and most importantly by partnering with community based organisations.
Our 16-25 Link Workers are also within the pathway team, they bridge CAMHS and MINT during transitions as the named worker. They work closely with other NHS teams, community based services and Social Services to ensure the young person’s voice is heard and their care plan supports their needs. We provide essential supervision and support to link workers and Advantage mentors while coordinating the YAP panel and transitions tracking meetings. Lastly, we focus on building solid relationships within the community. Our overarching goal is to facilitate the successful engagement of young people in various services and resources.
What conditions/barriers do 16-25-year-olds frequently present with?
Young people aged 16 to 25 present with diverse barriers that can significantly impact their well-being and transition into adulthood. These challenges include mental health conditions of varying severity, often exacerbated by the stress of this transitional period in their life. Feelings of isolation and uncertainty about transitioning between mental health services can also be prominent barriers.
The fragmentation of support services, where different organisations may not effectively communicate or collaborate can further complicate the journey for these individuals.
A stigma is often associated with seeking mental health support, discouraging many young people from seeking the help they need. The Pathway project was developed to address these difficulties, helping young people access services, engage with them effectively, and integrate into their communities.
What outcomes do we hope to see from the rollout of the Advantage programme?
From the rollout of the Advantage programme, we hope the outcomes would be, first and foremost, it will offer young people premium access to services beyond the NHS, ensuring they receive comprehensive support for their mental health and well-being. Additionally, the programme aims to facilitate early intervention, addressing mental health concerns promptly and effectively. Furthermore, it promotes that mental health and well-being extend beyond clinical settings, encouraging a broader holistic perspective. By equipping young people with tools and resources within their communities, the program aims to prevent crises and nurture resilience.
Moreover, the Advantage program will assist young people in setting and achieving their goals and ambitions over six months, guided by mentors. It also strives to enhance collaboration between the NHS and other organisations, improving overall relations and cooperation.
For more information about the Advantage mentoring programme click here