A safe place to ‘just be’: How Create Chat Eat is supporting young people’s wellbeing

Today’s young people face a crisis in their mental health – with pressures coming from every part of their lives.

“Many young people are experiencing higher levels of anxiety, depression and emotional distress,” says Deborah Baddoo from State of Trust.

“Several factors contribute to this, including the widespread use of social media which can lead to feelings of insecurity and social comparison. Stress is also a factor, from coping in school environments, academic pressure, the fall out post-Covid-19 pandemic, family issues and financial difficulties.”

Create Chat Eat aims to allow young people aged 13-17-year-olds to take a break from all this outside pressure, share some food and try something new with friends.

“We do this by providing a safe space, working to address mental health issues, improve confidence and build social and emotional wellbeing through creative activity, sharing food and informal counselling,” says Deborah.

“For a lot of the young people Create Chat Eat sessions are a lifeline, an opportunity to just ‘be’ and get support when needed while learning a creative skill and developing social skills, by interacting with peers in a safe environment.”

A diverse range of arts is central to the project. In the sessions youth workers support professional artists to share their passion for everything from visual arts, circus skills, creative writing and theatre.

Deborah says that the sessions have already been a success, with new attendees suggesting strong demand for the project.

“At the middle and end of every block of sessions we conduct an informal feedback and evaluation session with participants,” she says.

“We find out what they feel about the project and any new activities that they would like to see covered. Many young people reported feeling happier, more connected, and more confident, highlighting the significance of creative and social activities in supporting their emotional resilience.”

“The feedback demonstrated that the project has effectively supported young people’s mental health by providing enjoyable, creative and social experiences that help reduce stress, foster social connections and build confidence. The young people’s own words reinforce that the sessions are a safe place where they can relax, express themselves and feel supported – which are key elements of emotional wellbeing.”

As one young person put it: “I just feel better and I’m not out getting in trouble,” – showing how the sessions can offer a positive outlet for them to connect and express themselves.