Midlands Youth Mental Health & Employability Workshop

Young people across the UK, and particularly in the Midlands, are facing a growing mental health crisis. Rising rates of emotional distress and anxiety are directly impacting young people's ability to transition from education into sustained employment, contributing to higher NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) rates and regional skills shortages.

To tackle this, RN Consulting & Associates and Keele University have partnered to launch the Midlands Youth Mental Health & Employability Initiative (MYMHI). This strategic project aims to build a collaborative regional network to explore how emotional resilience and targeted mental health support can enhance young people's access to "good work". The work is starting in Telford before moving to other areas.

This initial half-day workshop will focus on mapping youth mental health and employability challenges at a local level. We are bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders to share insights, prevent siloed working, and lay the foundation for a co-designed Midlands Youth Wellbeing Framework for Employability.

We are inviting cross-sector professionals who are passionate about youth development, inclusive economic growth, and mental wellbeing, including:

• Local Employers and Businesses
• Educators (Schools, Colleges, and Careers Hubs)
• Youth Service Providers & Charities
• Mental Health Practitioners (including NHS/BeeU representatives)
• Local Authority & Policy Representatives

• Project Introduction by Dr Xuebing (Jack) Cao (Keele University): A welcome and overview of the MYMHI project, highlighting the academic research driving this regional collaboration
• The State of Youth Mental Health by Richard Nuttall (RN Consulting & Associates Ltd / CEO, National Youth Charity): Drawing on his extensive sector experience, Richard will deliver a presentation featuring current data on the youth mental health crisis, exploring how emotional distress directly impacts young people's transition into the workplace
• Expert Insights: Hear presentations on the current state of youth mental health and its direct impact on the future workforce.

• The Good Work Charter: A brief introduction by Louise Lenton (Acas) on the Midlands Good Work Charter and how employers can support mentally healthy workplaces.
• Interactive Breakout Sessions: Facilitated by Gayle Aughton, you will have the opportunity to discuss local findings in small groups, share best practices, and identify gaps in current provision.
• Networking & Working Lunch: Connect with other regional leaders over a provided lunch to foster future collaborations.

Join us to ensure that your voice, and your sector's perspective, are included as we work together to build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient future workforce for the Midlands.

Spaces are strictly limited to roughly 40 attendees to ensure productive group discussions, so please reserve your spot early.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Shropshire Chamber Of Commerce & Enterprise Ltd, Stafford Park 4, Telford, United Kingdom

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