Youth Mental Health Day 2026: #BuildFutureYou
This Friday, 18th September, Park View School will be marking Youth Mental Health Day. The focus of this year’s national campaign, #BuildFutureYou, is all about giving young people the tools, confidence, and support network they need to look after their mental well-being and build a positive future.
Mental health affects us all, and raising awareness starts right here in our local community. Throughout the morning, pupils will participate in dedicated mentor time activities and an assembly exploring mental health, breaking down stigmas, and highlighting where to find support when it’s needed most.
Local Voices, Big Impact
During mentor time, students will be looking at prominent figures from across the North East who have used their platforms to champion mental health awareness:
- Wayne “Rambo” Groves (South Shields): Founder of The Red Bench Project, a local initiative placing red benches across our community to give people a space to sit, talk, and connect.
- Sam Fender (North Shields): Musician and advocate for male mental health, who has spoken openly about stepping back to prioritize his own well-being.
- Dan Burn (Blyth & NUFC): Newcastle United defender who fronted the One of Our Own campaign, placing benches around Newcastle to encourage open conversations about mental health.
- Denise Welch (Tynemouth): Television presenter and long-time ambassador for the mental health charity MIND.
- Ant & Dec: Tyneside duo who helped launch ITV’s Britain Get Talking campaign, encouraging families and young people to keep lines of communication open.
What Pupils Will Be Doing in Mentor Time
Students will engage in practical exercises designed to help them identify their own personal support systems:
- Opening Discussion: Pupils will explore what connects these North East role models and address the core question: “If you were struggling with your mental health tonight, who would you actually talk to?” using interactive circle maps.
- Exploring Support Systems: Classes will discuss next steps and local resources using brace maps, focusing on key in-school contacts—including Ivan Rowell (Senior Mental Health Lead) and Kim Scott (Therapeutic HLTA)—as well as trusted external services.
- Personal Action Plan: Every pupil will complete a “My 3 People/Places” resource to identify three specific individuals or places they can turn to in times of need.
Useful Resources & Support Services
If you or someone you know needs support, the following organizations offer free, confidential guidance:
- Youth Mental Health Day 2026 – stem4 – Official resources and tips for building resilience.
- Kooth – Free, safe, and anonymous online mental health community for young people.
- Samaritans – 24/7 support for anyone needing someone to listen.