YOUNG people's mental health was urgently discussed at a meeting this week between two organisations.

The Cotswold Community Safety Partnership is working with Young Gloucestershire (Young Glos) to support young people’s mental health throughout the lockdown.

The groups want to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness children may have as a result of having their clubs and social lives taken away.

The Partnership has commissioned Young Glos to deliver a range of services to support young people's mental health and encourage them to stay at home and stay safe. The Partnership is funding the scheme using a grant provided by the OPCC (Office of Police and Crime Commissioner).

They are also exploring ways to engage young people with online support, including the development of a new YouTube channel and online chat service.

Cllr Jenny Forde, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Cotswold District Council and Chair of the Community Safety Partnership, said: “Many young people feel they are being unfairly blamed for spreading the virus when they are suffering as acutely as any, in what should be their formative years.

“They are remaining in school for now but that is stripped of any of the social interactions and extracurricular activities that help to combat loneliness or feelings of isolation. With teenage children myself, I really do fear for young people's mental health and it's so reassuring to see the creative, inspiring and relevant way in which Young Glos are connecting with our youth, giving them a voice and just letting them know they are not alone.

“Young Glos is a dynamic organisation that listens to what young people are telling them they need and provides tailored services to meet their needs. I'm proud that we have taken the lead on this and thankful to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for giving us the money to make it happen.”

Young people looking for training opportunities or practical support should visit Young Gloucestershire’s website or get in touch by sending an email to getinvovled@youngglos.org.uk with your name and phone number and the support you are looking for.

Infobuzz will continue to provide their Hidden Victims of Crime service however much of the services will move to online support. If you are a family who have a loved one in prison they can offer you support, send an email to admin@infobuzz.co.uk and their team will be in touch.