The BBC are reporting about 70 people, including teachers, pupils and NHS staff, are meeting today to discuss mental health provision in west Cumbria after an initiative by young people in the area to increase the amount of help available

The group We Will, which trains mental health first-aiders in schools and was set up by young people, will be giving a talk at the gathering.

Councillor Rebecca Hanson, who chairs the newly-established West Cumbria Youth Mental Health Network, says self-harm, anxiety and depression are all on the rise, but it is hard for young people to get help because of the rural nature of the area and NHS staff shortages.

The Cumbria Partnership Trust, which provides mental health services in the county, says it is working to reduce waiting times for routine referrals, which are currently about 31 days.

Full articles:

The BBC - Health News

The BBC - The Maryport group talking about mental health