Supporting Children in Need's mental health initiative and 'A Million & Me' legacy award

The mental health of the UK’s children and young people is deteriorating. According to the Children’s Society, in the last three years the likelihood of young people having a mental health problem has increased by fifty percent. 

The Health Foundation is committed to taking action to support young people's mental health. That's why, for World Mental Health Day 2023, we're contributing towards the BBC Children in Need's mental health initiative and the 'A Million & Me' legacy award. 

The award will go to the winners of a UK-wide competition looking for innovative and imaginative ways of bringing ‘everyday magic’ to homes and communities across the UK, which will help to support the mental wellbeing of children and young people.

Jo Bibby,  Director of Health at the Health Foundation, said, 'We are delighted to be supporting an award with such a critical aim. There is a well-established link between the circumstances in which young people grow and learn and their mental health outcomes. Those exposed to social adversity – such as poverty, deprivation, and associated risks such as parental mental illness and separation – are more likely to experience lifelong mental health issues. Early and continued intervention to support young people’s their mental health better equips them to navigate whatever comes their way.'

To find out more about the A Million & Me Award, and to access further guidance on the proposal process, visit the BBC Children in Need website.