Free emotional wellbeing scheme to launch in Manchester for children

Children across Greater Manchester will soon be able to access free face-to-face emotional health and wellbeing support, thanks to funding for a new scheme.

The new scheme is called Space to Grow and will open its doors to children in 2025. Manchester is one of 13 areas chosen to host the new programme, which aims to support around 6,000 children aged eight to 13 over the next two years.

The funding has come from BBC Children in Need, The Health Foundation, Impact on Urban Health and The Children’s Society, along with Children First, and MACS who have all teamed up to deliver this new initiative.

Read more: Paddy McGuinness 'in bits' after Peter Kay's message to star on Children in Need bike ride

Space to grow, from The Children's Society, specifically targets children who are often underrepresented in emotional health services, including those from the global majority, young carers, and LGBTQ+ youth.

Alongside direct support, the programme hopes to build evidence to be able to advocate for improvements to emotional health and wellbeing services. As well as supporting eight to 13 year olds, parents, carers, and school staff will receive resources to help them talk about tough topics with children.

Digital support will also be available through The Children’s Society’s MeTime app, and in Scotland, adults can access help via Children First's support line.

Mark Russell, Chief Executive of The Children’s Society, said: “We’re thrilled to launch Space to Grow and support so many children before they reach crisis point. Thank you BBC Children in Need for this £1 million, which enables us to reach children who often miss out on early help. We look forward to supporting thousands more children, so that they are happier, healthier, and thriving.”

Dr Alex George, UK Youth Mental Health Ambassador and TV personality, said: “I was honoured to meet with the brilliant team at The Children’s Society back in May to present them with the BBC Children in Need A Million & Me Award.

“It has been a pleasure to follow their journey since and see them make great strides in the early intervention approach to mental health in such a short amount of time. I look forward to seeing their continued impact in the space with the launch of the programme, inspiring safe and regular conversations around mental and emotional wellbeing”.

The Children’s Society mission is to fight for the hope and happiness of young people when it's threatened by abuse, exploitation and neglect. For more information about the programme, including how to refer in, email spacetogrow@childrenssociety.org.uk.