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 the pastoral team, SENCO, or DSL) or directly by parents. Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Sessions are held outside of school hours, between 4-6pm.
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. This programme is funded by Young Futures Fund.
EmpowerU is delivered in Youth Clubs, Community Centres and Family Hubs.
_Programme Structure
Week 1: Understanding Emotions
Young people will learn how to recognise, express, and regulate their emotions using tools like the Emotions Wheel and Behavioural Activation to understand the link between thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Week 2: Being Safe Online
Participants will explore the impact of social media on mental health, develop strategies for coping with distressing online content, and learn ways to protect themselves from cyberbullying and trolling.
Week 3: Bullying and Peer Support
This week focuses on identifying different forms of bullying, fostering respectful relationships, and empowering bystanders to support those experiencing bullying or discrimination.
Week 4: Self-Care Practices
Young people will create personalised self-care plans, build a “Distraction Toolkit,” and explore practical ways to maintain their mental wellbeing.
Week 5: Making Healthier Choices
Covering the importance of sleep, nutrition, and stress management, this week equips students with strategies to make positive lifestyle choices that support mental and physical wellbeing.
Week 6: Building Resilience
The final week helps students develop a growth mindset, identify trusted support networks, and cultivate resilience strategies for overcoming challenges.
_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: 04/03/2025 – 08/04/2025 [Held every Tuesday between 4-6pm]
_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.
Referral Criteria and Registration
Please review our referral criteria carefully before registering your child for this programme.
Important: Registering your child does not guarantee a place in the programme. If spaces are full, they may be placed on a waiting list.
If you have any questions, please call our referral line on 07760950970 or email [email protected].
