EmpowerU: Building a Healthy Mind and Future is a life skills programme supporting young people’s mental health through self-care, resilience, inclusivity, digital safety, and healthier habits.
The EmpowerU programme takes a holistic approach to youth mental health, fostering emotional intelligence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. It provides tools for well-being and healthier life choices in a safe, supportive space.
Find out more about this unique programme below.
Please note: Referrals to the EmpowerU programme can be made by schools (via pastoral teams, SENCOs, or DSLs) or directly by parents. Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Sessions are held outside of school hours.
What’s involved?
We are on a mission to improve conversations on mental health and increase awareness, while equipping children and young people with essential skills to support themselves and their peers who might be experiencing mental health problems.
EmpowerU is delivered in Youth Clubs, Community Centres and Family Hubs.
_Programme Structure
Week 1: Understanding Emotions
Introduces well-being and the importance of recognising and managing emotions.
Week 2: Staying Safe Online
Promotes digital safety and awareness, helping young people navigate the digital world responsibly.
Week 3: Combating Discrimination and Bullying
Teaches strategies to identify, challenge, and overcome discrimination and bullying.
Week 4: Self-Care Practices
Encourage prioritising self- as a fundamental aspect of mental wellbeing.
Week 5: Making Healthier Choices
Educates on nutrition and the link between mental health, diet, and exercise, including how to seek support.
Week 6: Building Resilience and Closure
Focuses on fostering resilience and empowering young people to use the skills learned to navigate challenges confidently.
_Additional Components
- Delivered by a Children’s Wellbeing Practitioner alongside Programme Facilitators and experienced volunteers with a background in psychology, youth work and counselling.
- Guest speakers, such as counsellors or mental health professionals, to provide insights on active listening and emotional support.
- Interactive presentations and activities to reinforce learning in a fun and engaging way.
- Take-home assignments to practice listening skills outside of the classroom setting.
_Locations
Ardleigh Green Family Centre (Havering)
Southcourt Family Centre Plus (Aylesbury)
_Upcoming Dates
Aylesbury: 29/01/2025 – 12/03/2025 (please email [email protected] to receive a referral form).
_Our EmpowerU Team
Programme Aims and Outcomes
1. Improved Mental Health
EmpowerU promotes emotional wellbeing by providing tools to manage stress, enhance self-awareness, and build positive coping strategies.
2. Enhanced Belonging
The programme fosters empathy, inclusivity, and respect, creating safer and more supportive environments for all young people in and outside of school.
3. Improved Digital Safety
EmpowerU teaches critical online safety skills, empowering young people to navigate digital spaces responsibly and securely, while protecting their mental health.
4. Healthier Nutrition
Educates young people on nutrition and the link between mental health, diet, and exercise, including practical strategies and how to seek support.
5. Increased Resilience
EmpowerU strengthens resilience by teaching young people valuable skills to adapt to challenges and effectively recover from setbacks.
6. Essential Life Skills
The programme equips participants with practical skills for effective communication, decision-making, and problem-solving to thrive in everyday life.