Building Momentum: Shaping the Neurodevelopmental Conditions Community of Practice

by Jigyasha Sharma | May 30, 2025 | Blog Post

Building Momentum: Shaping the Neurodevelopmental Conditions Community of Practice

“We had a fantastic second meeting of the Community of Practice with some brilliant discussions around research projects and some really interesting contributions to how we want to develop the Community of Practice as a whole. It’s starting to build momentum and we’re very excited about the next steps.”

Dr Jesse Campbell

Co-chair, Neurodevelopmental Condititions Community of Practice

On Friday 23rd May 2025, we hosted the second meeting of the Neurodevelopmental Conditions Community of Practice at the King’s Maudsley Partnership. Clinicians and researchers gathered for an energising session focused on strengthening collaboration, sharing ideas, and improving care for children and young people. This Community of Practice is designed to bring people together across disciplines, services, and lived experience to shape better outcomes through collective action.

“It was a rich and stimulating discussion between clinicians and researchers, with thinking about how to better engage children, young people and families at its heart.”

Dr Ashley Liew

Consultant Paediatric Neuropsychiatrist

Spotlight Session: Predicting Outcomes in ADHD

We were joined by Dr Nicoletta Adamo, who presented her project: “Predicting Outcomes in ADHD: Perspectives and Priorities from Lived Experience.”

This study is exploring whether a tool can be developed to better predict which children with ADHD are likely to experience fewer difficulties and which may need more support. By looking at a combination of personal traits and environmental factors, the research hopes to understand what drives success—and what gets in the way.

To make the tool as accurate as possible, the study also considers whether genetic information or ‘biomarkers’ could play a role. These can be gathered from a simple salvia sample and look at our genetic makeup, and might tell us about likely future health outcomes for a child with ADHD – for example whether a child is likely to experience depression in adolescence, or likely educational attainment. This study is doing a deep dive into understanding if that information was gathered and shared, how it could best be used to aid, not hinder outcomes. The project will launch in July and involve:

Focus groups with young people (16–25), parents, clinicians and teachers
Exploration of how such tools are perceived—including emotional impact and ethical considerations
A co-designed, inclusive approach that ensures personalised support care, not stigma

The Community of Practice discussed the study. We discussed the importance of sharing this information about predicted outcomes in a considered way so they do not have unintended consequences that hinder a child’s potential. There was however much discussion also about the potential of biomarkers being able to improve treatment and preventative care by giving more information to clinical services and policy makers to ensure individuals receive the best possible support.

“I found it particularly helpful to have this as a forum to get feedback on my research and how it can actually be meaningful for the Community of Practice—and to hear from clinicians about what’s helpful and implementable in practice.”

Dr Nicoletta Adamo

Get Involved

Interested in contributing to the conversation or shaping what comes next?
📩 Contact us at pmcyp@slam.nhs.uk

Let’s keep building this community—together.

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Can AI Make Mental Health Care Smarter, Faster, and Fairer for Children?

by Jigyasha Sharma | May 12, 2025 | Blog Post

Can AI Make Mental Health Care Smarter, Faster, and Fairer for Children?

– By Professor Gustavo Sudre, Professor of Genomic Neuroimaging and Artificial Intelligence and Rosetrees Pears Chair of Bioinformatics, Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

Group of diverse cheerful fun happy multiethnic children outdoors at the schoolyard

The journey to effective help for challenges to mental health in children can be long. While there are many effective interventions, clinicians are often unsure which intervention will most likely help. So, there is usually a trial-and-error approach, trying one intervention, then another, and sometimes even another, until the most helpful one is identified. It is a process that even the most dedicated clinicians struggle to navigate, and it can be overwhelming for families. This is why my work looks at how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can support and improve this process.

As a researcher working at the intersection of mental health, artificial intelligence, neuroimaging, and genomics, I’ve spent the past decade asking how we can improve. Can we make mental health interventions more precise and more inclusive? Can we move away from relying on observable behaviours and start using objective biological data to guide understanding, diagnosis, and treatment? And perhaps most importantly, can we ensure these improvements reach all children, not just a few?

I recently moved to King’s College London from the US-based National Institutes of Health to build a team focused on addressing exactly these questions. And while AI can’t fix everything, we’re seeing more and more ways it could meaningfully transform youth mental health care.

From symptoms to biology

Much of our current approach to mental health starts with symptoms—what a young person reports, how they behave, and how others describe them. That’s valuable, but it’s only part of the picture. Mental health conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often vary widely between individuals: this variability isn’t captured by the diagnostic label. That’s where AI can help.

We’ve used machine learning to uncover brain-based subtypes—we sometimes call these “biotypes”—in large datasets of children living with ADHD. These subtypes reflect real differences in brain function that aren’t always visible through clinical observation. And they matter: we’re beginning to find that children with different biotypes may respond differently to different treatments.

For example, one subtype we identified involves disruptions in attention-related brain circuits, and those children tend to respond particularly well to stimulant medications. We’re now asking if other subtypes or biotypes might benefit more from non-stimulant medication or behavioural therapies. The idea is simple: tailor treatment to biology, not just behaviour. But the potential impact—faster recovery, fewer side effects, and less family stress—is enormous.

Predicting what comes next

Another area where AI is proving decisive is predicting outcomes. One of the most common—and essential—questions from children, young people, and families is about what the future might hold. This is a hard question to answer. Even detailed clinical assessments don’t reliably predict whether a child with a diagnosis of ADHD, for example, will continue to have troublesome symptoms into adolescence or will resolve.

That’s changing. In a recent project, we combined genetic and brain imaging data from children diagnosed with ADHD and trained a machine learning model to predict their future outcomes. With over 80% accuracy, we can now predict whether a child will meet diagnostic criteria in adolescence or whether symptoms will subside. That level of insight can be transformative for families and clinicians trying to make informed decisions about support and intervention. Our next critical step is to see if this predictive tool works in other settings.

Mind the gap

But with this exciting future comes a critical challenge: equity.

AI models are only as good as the data they’re trained on. And too often, that data doesn’t fully capture the children who need help the most—those from underrepresented backgrounds, or those with the most severe symptoms who can’t complete some research procedures (such as having an MRI scan).

If we’re not careful, we risk building tools that work well for some groups but leave others behind, reinforcing existing disparities in healthcare.

That’s why equity isn’t an afterthought in our research—it’s a design principle. In the new Pears Maudsley Centre, we’re investing in child-friendly, movement-tolerant brain imaging technologies that work even when kids are anxious or active. We’re also building strong partnerships with schools and communities to recruit participants who reflect the full diversity of the population. And we’re designing our models with inclusion in mind, so they’re more likely to benefit all children, not just the easiest to study.

A broader effort, a shared goal

This work is part of a broader effort across the King’s Maudsley Partnership, where researchers, clinicians, and technologists work together to improve youth mental health care. From digital tools being trialled in clinics to large-scale studies on how social media and cognitive functioning interact, we’re creating a more connected, data-informed understanding of mental health.

We’re also closely aligned with the new Pears Maudsley Centre for Children and Young People, which will bring cutting-edge research, clinical care, and community engagement under one roof. It’s precisely the kind of setting where research like ours can translate into real-world impact.

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Creating Connection: Launching the Affective Disorders Community of Practice

by Jigyasha Sharma | Apr 30, 2025 | Blog Post, Events, News

Creating Connection: Launching the Affective Disorders Community of Practice

“It’s not often we get the space to stop, reflect, and build something new—together.”

That sentiment, shared during our inaugural meeting, perfectly captured the energy in the room. Last month, the King’s Maudsley Partnership launched a brand-new Affective Disorders Community of Practice—a space for clinicians, researchers, and service partners to come together and improve care for children and young people experiencing mood and affective disorders.

Why this Community matters

Across CAMHS and academic settings, there’s a wealth of expertise in treating and understanding conditions like depression and anxiety in young people. But these insights can sometimes remain siloed with research not always filtering into day-to-day care, and frontline experiences not always shaping academic studies.

That’s where this Community of Practice (CoP) comes in. It’s designed to break down those barriers, helping us build stronger bridges between research and reality. It’s a space to explore shared challenges, generate ideas, and collaborate on new ways to support young people and families.

“Even after one meeting, we’ve already identified exciting opportunities to collaborate in new ways,”

Dr Josefien Breedvelt

Co-Chair of the Affective Community of Practice and Prudence Trust Research Fellow

What we heard in the room

The launch event was about more than structure and plans—it was a space for reflection and connection. Here’s what stood out:

A hunger for collaboration

Attendees spoke about the value of meeting others across services and disciplines. Whether it was someone new to the field or a seasoned clinician, there was a shared enthusiasm for building relationships that last beyond a single meeting.

Turning ideas into impact

There was strong interest in co-developing research that feels real and relevant, projects that respond to clinical questions and make a difference on the ground.

Building with purpose

People didn’t just want to benefit from the CoP—they wanted to shape it. There was real curiosity around how to build something sustainable, inclusive, and useful to everyone involved.

What’s next?

We’re just getting started, but already, the group has started to shape what’s to come:

Collaborative research development
Interactive sessions like mind-mapping and co-planning workshops to turn ideas into action.

Resource and information sharing
A mailing list will help keep everyone connected with updates on funding opportunities and events.

Inclusive, flexible formats
We’ll explore hybrid and online sessions so more people can join.

Support for everyone
Whether you’re new to research or deeply embedded in it, the CoP will offer guidance and opportunities to get involved, no matter your role or level.

Get Involved

The Affective Disorders Community of Practice is about building something together with curiosity, care, and collaboration at its heart.

Interested in joining us? Contact us at pmcyp@slam.nhs.uk

Let’s shape the future of children and young people’s mental health together.

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Understanding ADHD

by Jigyasha Sharma | Feb 12, 2025 | Blog Post

Understanding ADHD

To mark Children’s Mental Health Week, Brody Barclay, 18, shares his experience of living with ADHD and autism and taking part in research.

– By Brody Barclay · Part of the RE-STAR Junior Youth Researcher Advisory Panel

Brody Barclay is part of the RE-STAR Junior Youth Researcher Advisory Panel. RE-STAR is a research programme run by King’s College London, working with young people with diagnoses of ADHD and autism to help cut the risk of depression. The team at KCL are part of the King’s Maudsley Partnership for Children and Young People, which brings together clinical and academic collaboration in mental health between South London and Maudsley NHS Trust and King’s College London’s Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, with Maudsley Charity as its charity partner.

Living with ADHD: Brody’s Story

My name is Brody Barclay and I am 18 years old. I am currently studying Game Design Art at the University of Central Lancashire. I was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 9 and Autism at 13. It has been quite a struggle living with ADHD. I spent a long time thinking I was the only person who had a brain like mine. I thought I was broken and have often felt misunderstood. My teachers didn’t understand – in my early years in education, I was getting told off for not sitting still, lack of focus, not completing work in class. I have struggled with friendships over the years, having lost most of them due to misunderstandings and a lack of ability to properly communicate with them.

I have felt quite lonely at times. I am easily distracted. I could have a deadline due for the next day and despite my inner feelings begging me to do work, I find some little things on my desk to just play with. I can often be impulsive and say the wrong thing, but I never mean to hurt people. Some people can be unforgiving, think I’m rude or blunt. I end up overthinking every conversation I’ve had and replaying my responses, worrying in case I have said the wrong thing. I have struggled with anxiety for as long as I can remember. It’s exhausting. I also struggle with many food textures and tastes. Although I know I need to eat more, to put weight on, it’s a real struggle, adding a lot more stress. I have been on medication for ADHD. It had its place, especially during my GCSE’s. Although I have a love-hate relationship with it. I feel more artificial on it and not free to be me.

I can become very overwhelmed when given a lot of tasks in one go. Sometimes, this can stop me from starting anything. After I’ve been social with people, I need a bit of alone time to recharge my batteries. I’m not ignoring people as I love to socialise, but without that time, I just struggle to function around others. I can be very forgetful and I’m always looking for my keys.

My mum has been a real encouragement to me. She saw online a chance for me to help others from my experience living with ADHD.

RE-STAR – taking part in research

I joined the (Regulating Emotions – Strengthening Adolescent Resilience) RE-STAR Junior Youth Researcher Advisory Panel (or Junior Y-RAP for short) as a founding member in October 2022. RE-STAR is a research programme at King’s College London looking at methods that could be used in schools to help support neurodivergent young people with their mental health, particularly with depression. Part of this is giving them the strategies to help themselves. This is why it’s so important to hear from the real-life experience of young people to understand fully what their needs are to help them succeed.

Prior to joining the Junior Youth Researcher Advisory Panel, I was a study participant for RE-STAR taking part in an interview study the previous year. The majority of my interaction with RE-STAR has since been through the bi-monthly Zoom meetings the research team held with a group of 8-10 junior Y-RAP. Through these meetings, the group is shaping both the ‘what’ and the ‘how’ of the RE-STAR research programme . I also had some hands-on experience with some of the research methods at RE-STAR’s ‘Be a Researcher Day’ last summer.

To feel that people really care about young people’s mental health and everything that comes with living with ADHD is encouraging to me. Being able to be part of this project and having my voice heard shows me that whatever you go through can be used for good. That’s why I love being a part of RE-STAR research. It’s about having your voice heard so we are able to help others to make a better future for them.

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Celebrating International Nurses Day 2024: A Thank You to Our Nurses!

by Admin | May 12, 2024 | Blog Post

Celebrating International Nurses Day 2024: A Thank You to Our Nurses!

As we commemorate International Nurses Day this year, we want to shine a spotlight on the incredible work of nurses in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). These nurses play a vital role in supporting the well-being and mental health of children and young people, often in challenging and complex circumstances.

In CAMHS, nurses are not only caregivers but also advocates, educators, and sources of comfort for both service users, their families and carers. They provide essential mental health care services, helping young people navigate through difficult emotions, cope with challenges, and develop resilience.

This year, we wanted to do something special to show our appreciation. We encouraged our CAMHS staff members to take a moment to say thank you to a CAMHS based nurse who has made a difference in their lives or the lives of others.

The response was overwhelming, with heartfelt messages pouring in from across the directorate. We hope these messages of gratitude not only warm the hearts of our nurses but also served as a reminder of the impact they have on the lives of patients, families, and colleagues alike. Happy International Nurses Day to all our incredible nurses. Here’s to celebrating you today and every day.

Read all the messages below:

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Mike Brodie – Lambeth CAMHS

“I want to shout out Mike, our amazing Children’s Nurse who has a long history working in Lambeth CAMHS. Mike has worked within many teams in Lambeth CAMHS over the years and is currently the Clinical Service Lead for our Lighthouse (front door) team.

Mike is always on hand to offer time, guidance, help and support to our young people parents and carers as well as his colleagues. His hard work and dedication has assisted Lambeth with consistently reaching the contact within 28 days target. His is a compassionate and caring nurse. Lambeth CAMHS wouldn’t be the same without him. Thanks Mike Happy International Nurses Day!

Charlotte Chesson – Bethlem Adolescent Unit (BAU)

“I would like to nominate Charlotte Chesson because she is kind, caring, always so calm and chilled, very popular with the young people. Not long after I started my role I remember walking past a young person’s bedroom, Charlotte was in there with her stroking her hand whilst she was sleeping. It was evident how much Charlotte cared and that memory has stayed with me.”

– Ward Social Worker

“Charlotte defo needs celebrating!!! Charlotte is always bringing a calm and empathic approach to the ward, incredibly organised and great at delegating and ensuring the team gets things done, despite being busy is very present with the young people and it’s clear to see she has built good rapport with many of the young people.”

– Ward Trainee Youth Intensive Psychological Practitioner

Paul Hunt

“Very dedicated to his role across all his years at CAMHS. Always keeps his calm even in crisis situations with our young people.”

– Ward Assistant Psychologist

Natalie Gagg – Bethlem Adolescent Unit (BAU)

“Natalie has the perfect balance of being firm but fair, very funny, certainly has a connection / very popular with the young people who she knows really well. She’s very committed, always happy and upbeat and brings a positive vibe/her whole self when she is on shift on the ward.”

– Ward Social Worker

“Such a wonderful nurse! So caring, kind, hardworking and all knowing! Her ability to juggle everything that is going on and hold everyone in mind is amazing. Hearing her laugh brightens up my day.”

– Ward Trainee Youth Intensive Psychological Practitioner

“I think Natalie has to be the most passionate Nurse on BAU. She has huge amounts of empathy towards the young people that they respond well to and has a strong work ethic that demands everyone to work at their best which is what you want and need in an inpatient environment. She is incredibly bubbly, and this rubs off on other people around her. We need more Natalies!”

– Ward Trainee Youth Intensive Psychological Practitioner

Gillene Thomas

“Calm and controlled, champions our international nurses wherever possible and is supportive to colleagues.”

Amanda Broughton

“You are a confident, experienced and a skilled leader who inspires our newer nurses everyday – thank you for your dry sense of humour too!”

Jide Akintomide

“Jide is Jide and I am thankful for his containment, support and trust throughout the years.“

Nina Hammond – Snowsfields Adolescent Unit & Southwark CAMHS

“Skilled and knowledgeable beyond her years. Will say ‘yes’ to anyone asking for some help and has an anecdote for every scenario.”

“Thank you Nina. Your commitment to our young people and staff is amazing. You bring your lovely personality and passion to everything you do, making a positive impact on those around you. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and I am grateful for all that you do.”

Amy-Rose Olah

“She always makes space even though she is always very busy, juggling several issues. She is quick to think and gives thoughtful answers when there may be issues that come up. She is supportive of the young people and the therapies. She knows her ward so well. She is kind, gentle and firm at the same time which again I can see that these are qualities that young people respond so well too.”

– Ward Art Psychotherapist

David Condon – CAMHS Community Matron

“Kind, experienced, proactive, thoughtful and helpful – what more do you want from a senior nurse?”

Jacob Rolling

“Making his mark already in the team, passionate, creative and bakes!”

Latoya Morgan – Lewisham CAMHS

“Shout out also to Latoya for all that she does, under the radar a lot of the time, for NDT!”

Lee Wadsworth

“Our in house Reducing Restrictive Practice expert, thank you for championing youth and parent involvement in this sensitive work.”

Holly Dawson

“I would like to give a shout-out to Holly Dawson from Symbol Team:

Holly’s dedication to supporting young people and their carers is evident every day as she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure their well-being. She concerns herself not only with the individuals directly under her care but also with other clients and, notably, our team. She consistently strives to improve teamwork and thinks of ways to support everyone surrounding her.

Working alongside Holly is a pleasure, as her passion for her work and dedication characterise her. We are truly grateful for the impact she makes within the team. Thank you, Holly, for your invaluable contributions.”

Femi Lawal

“Thank you for being so diligent in your care for young people and an example to all.”

– Ward Assistant Psychologist

Janet Millanaise-Taylor

“Janet has such a lovely calming way about her, I think that she demonstrates compassionate care in both her interactions with the young people and also how she speaks about them in handover to MDT.”

– Ward Occupational Therapy Apprentice

Joely Horner

“Flourished in her new role as RMN and always advocates for the young people. Her baked cookies are also 10/10!.”

– Ward Assistant Psychologist

Olivia Akenzua

“I wanted to nominate Olivia, she is so quick off the mark with every aspect of her work. Very organised and so brilliant with each of the young people. She knows everything about all of them and her hard work is clear.”

– Ward Trainee Youth Intensive Psychological Practitioner

Kerry Gribble – Croydon CAMHS

“A big shout out to Kerry , who is so passionate about being physical health lead in Croydon CAMHS and always has a smile on her face – we appreciate you Kerry!!”

Letisha Spencer

“Letisha is new, but she has hit the ground running, feels like she has been part of the team for ages. She is warm and uses her sense of humour to connect with the young people. She has taken initiative and empowered the young people to take some responsibility whilst they are on the ward in the form of corridor reps. Generally she works very hard and deserves a shout out”

– Ward Trainee Youth Intensive Psychological Practitioner

Georgia Reed

“Amazing nurse who cares about staff as well as young people. Very good at boundary setting. Lights up the room with her fun presence!”

– Ward Assistant Psychologist

Nicola Jenkin – Lewisham CAMHS

“She works tirelessly, she is extremely knowledgeable and willing to spend time discussing issues and sharing that knowledge. Nicola really embodies ‘grace under fire’ as she remains consistent, warm and cheerful in spite of any pressure.”

“Nicola deserves all this love and appreciation!“

“Nicola is an extremely hard working and empathetic colleague and a professional for the service users. She is professional, supportive and friendly, a great colleague to have!”

“Nicola goes above and beyond for patients, families and her colleagues. She is always available for advice and support and I am proud to be able to nominate such a wonderful role model.”

“Nicola, who works tirelessly to help yp and families and a great colleague to work with!” 🙂

“She regularly goes above and beyond for her families. She is selflessly committed to their welfare. Added to this she a thoughtful and supportive colleague who generously shares her thinking and knowledge.”

“I have worked with Nicola since she started within CAMHS, and she has always had a welcoming approach. Nicola is also there when you want help and make sure her team members are okay. Nicola works extremely hard.”

“Nicola has been amazing in her role as a nurse for Lewisham CAMHS, we could not function without her!”

“I would also like to express my gratitude to Nicola. She has been really welcoming and wonderful to work with. She takes time out of her very busy schedule to make sure other members of the team are doing okay. She’s extremely hard working and kind. In my very limited time here it’s been a very pleasant experience to interact and work with her.”

“Nicola’s long service and dedication to Lewisham CAMHS, not only in a therapeutic capacity but with her specialist prescribing skills and even a period leading our safeguarding make her a worthy candidate for a shout out. Along with our other wonderful nurses we really appreciate her!” 💐

“Nicola has been tirelessly supporting families with ADHD in Lewisham for years. Nicola is patient, kind and resilient when being asked to do more than she can. She is compassionate and works very hard to make sure no one is forgotten. She tries hard to be flexible to accommodate people who need prioritising due to risk. Thank you Nicola!!”

“I have a term to sum up Nicola…An absolute STAR!!! She’s very diligent, dedicated and goes above and beyond for not only our service users, but her colleagues.

She’ll happily help anyone navigate this service. A real representative of our Trust Values…Kindness, Respect & Together

Nicola, we salute you beyond Nurses Day, thank you!” 😊

Isabella Awilo

“Always tries to find the time to have 1:1 engagement with the young people even on a busy shift.”

– Ward Assistant Psychologist

Fran Lada

“A big shoutout to Fran, for all the amazing work, dedication, and thoughtful care she provides to the Hope Project, and the children and families she supports. We really appreciate it, thanks Fran!”

– Clinical Psychologist Southwark CAMHS

Ziza Godji

“Her experience and expertise always makes the staff and ward feel safe and managed well.”

– Ward Assistant Psychologist

Catherine Olaseinde

“Her calming presence makes staff and young people warm to her on shift.”

– Ward Assistant Psychologist

Charlotte Bates

“She is so knowledgeable about every aspect of running the ward and all the young person. She is caring and fair with her decision making and doesn’t get angry when I ask her lots of annoying questions! You can really see the hard work she puts into ever shift and how this really helps the team. Her psychology knowledge can also really add to MDT discussions and help her when implementing the DBT approach we have adopted on the ward.”

– Ward Trainee Youth Intensive Psychological Practitioner

Bethlem Adolescent Unit (BAU) Nurses

“Can I give a shout out to all the nurses at BAU, for always staying calm and always carrying on. I’m forever amazed by how they continue to find creative ways to support young people, even when there are stressful things happening on the ward.”

– Ward Family Therapist

Victor Coker

“Goes the extra mile for staff wellbeing i.e. birthday cakes!”

– Ward Assistant Psychologist

Patricia Onyike

“Rain or shine she always greets the young people, families and staff with a smile.”

– Ward Assistant Psychologist

Mary Lansana

“Despite being a new addition to the team (PICU ward), her senior presence ensures the shift runs as smooth as possible. She is a role model for all!”

– Ward Assistant Psychologist

“Mary was the first person who welcome me to SAU, 20 years ago on my first day on the ward. She has the gift in making you feel heard, listened to and make your work feel valued even when she is juggling a busy ward.

She is gentle, consistent in her approach, calm for the young people but able to put firm containing boundaries. She always has a smile even at her most stress personally or professionally. She has been a great source of warmth and support to all of us at SAU and particularly the young people and their families too. I certainly miss her loads. She makes you feel you belong!”

– Ward Art Psychotherapist

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My Voice Matters: The Young People’s Art Group

by Admin | Feb 9, 2024 | Blog Post

My Voice Matters: The Young People’s Art Group

The role of art has become part of wider discussions in relation to the design of healthcare environments as it can create an increased sense of calm, ambience, and impact positively on staff and service users’ wellbeing. Participation and engagement from those with lived experience is vital to ensuring our service users benefit from therapeutic artwork.

Taken from Marcus Coates’ workshop

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A new arts programme was developed with the Bethlem Gallery and includes site-specific artwork which will be displayed across the building. The Young People’s Art Group, a group of young people with lived experience of mental health conditions, was formed for this project and took a leading role in appointing the artists for each commission for the centre and providing feedback directly to the artist at each stage of their artwork.

The commissioned artists, Bethany Williams, Marcus Coates, Sahra Hersi, Sarah Carpenter and Carlos Cortes have also held workshops with several young people using our services and are currently preparing their final artwork to be installed at the Centre.

One of the young people to take part in The Young People’s Art Group was Naz. Most recently Naz edited text for pears Maudsley artwork interpretation to make text more accessible for young people. Speaking on her numerous involvements in the project, she explained:

“”I felt as if I’ve been encouraged to share my voice and had my opinions heard and given value during the participation work, I’ve taken part in. Participation work has been an important part of my recovery since I was 16 years old as it’s helped me set goals and achieve them and keep my mind occupied with something productive and purposeful. It has led me to many new and exciting opportunities and pushed me out of my comfort zone.”

Taken from Sahra Hersi’s workshop

“The most recent participation project I’ve taken part in is the Young People’s Art Group for Pears Maudsley. Exploring wellbeing and art is something that really interests me as I’d love to be an art therapist and art has always been something that has brought me a lot of comfort and helped me express myself during difficult times. I felt as if my voice mattered when I helped choose the artists who created the display cabinets for the Pears Maudsley Centre and when I was invited to speak at a roundtable discussion at the Science Gallery on behalf of the Young People’s Art Group.”

“In the past, I’ve also done participation work with other charities and organisations including one that helped me learn debating skills. It was a really enjoyable experience that still means a lot to me as debate training helped me feel more confident and learn to advocate for myself and express my needs and have open discussions about mental health. I feel debate training has opened a lot of doors for me and has been a stepping stone in the journey of participation work I’m involved in now, collaborating with Pears Maudsley and even continuing my participation work in a professional setting.”

Taken from Bethany Williams’ workshop

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