The idea
We are creating a clear, evidence‑based map of emotional wellbeing and early mental health support for children and young people aged 5–25 in Cheshire West and Chester with a focus on where support is missing before crisis point. Across CWAC children, young people and families struggle to access timely, preventative mental health support. Provision is fragmented across digital, community and detached spaces, contributing to avoidable escalation and hospital admissions.
Working with the VCSFE sector, CYP and professionals, we will identify gaps and design practical solutions. This includes recommendations to improve digital platforms and to develop safe, accessible multi‑agency youth spaces, such as cultural “third spaces” and crisis café‑style provision for 16+.
The project will deliver a mapped system overview, gap analysis, and a set of fundable proposals ready for investment. It will support earlier access to help, reduce pressure on statutory services, and improve outcomes for CYP
What we'll deliver
- Appoint a VCSFE Sector Consultant (fixed term) to lead engagement, mapping and system design
- A mapped directory and gap analysis of youth support - including digital, outreach and physical
- An investment‑ready design pack for new youth spaces
- Appoint a staff lead to update online directories, improving access to current mental health support for families
Why it's a great idea
Research consistently shows that non‑clinical, youth‑friendly spaces such as community hubs, cultural venues and safe “third spaces” improve emotional wellbeing, reduce anxiety, and increase early help‑seeking among children and young people, particularly those who do not engage with formal services. Evidence also shows that young people aged 16–25 face significant barriers to accessing support due to stigma, service thresholds, long waits and the gap between children’s and adult mental health pathways.
This project will support more equitable access following years of reductions in youth provision across England. CWAC has fewer accessible early support spaces than neighbouring authorities, increasing the risk of escalation to crisis. By strengthening early, community‑based support and improving digital navigation, the project will help young people access help sooner, reduce avoidable A&E attendance and hospital admissions, and ease pressure on statutory services.
Steps to get it done
- April 1st: Appoint VCSE consultant. YMCA St Helens consultant identified; funding required to sustain role.
- April 1st: Appoint Digital Information Officer to maintain and update online directories
- May 1st: Publish directory of existing early mental health and youth services
