Implementation and engagement: improving policy and school experience for young people
26 July 2023
Recently, members of our Implementation and Engagement Board (IEB), including youth representatives, NHS clinicians, third sector partners and advisors from the Welsh Government, met to discuss ongoing research projects at the Wolfson Centre for Young People’s Mental Health and a review of school and community-based counselling services.
Dr Chris Eaton opened the meeting by sharing information on engaging with policy makers, including best practices and the importance for researchers to develop these links.
“The Wolfson Centre is well placed to inform and evaluate national mental health policy due to its interdisciplinary expertise, advisory boards, and links with external stakeholders."
The different workstreams then presented to the board updates and highlights of the ongoing research at the centre:
- Dr Olga Eyre presented her research focused on developing mental health training resources for school staff. The importance of creating easily accessible and research-based resources to engage teachers in supporting young people's mental health was discussed. Professor Ann John contributed to the discussion by exploring ways to differentiate these resources from existing ones.
- Dr Foteini Tseliou presented on investigating trajectories of emotional problems across development and time. The board discussed some of the research findings including the differing factors that affect young people’s mental health.
- Dr Charlotte Dennison's presentation delved into the genetics of anxiety and depression among young people. Ongoing studies in workstream 4, along with the correlation between these conditions and physical health issues such as migraines and diabetes, were explored. The discussion also touched upon the complexities of genetic nurture.
- Dr Marcos del Pozo Banos presented his data analysis work on clustering symptoms and self-harm on children and young people with depression and anxiety. The board discussed the complexities of machine learning and the importance of making this information accessible to the public. Dr del Pozo Banos responded that he will soon be collaborating with our youth advisory group to discuss his work.
The last presentation was conducted by Emma Meilak, the Public Involvement Lead, and Catrin Edwards, a founding member of the Youth Advisory Group (YAG). Emma and Catrin shared insights into the YAG's contribution to the Centre’s work and its evolving nature. Discussions were centred on how we continue to involve YAG members once they have graduated to make sure they feel supported.
“I will be the first graduate of the group and I don’t feel at all that I’m being ‘dropped’. In fact I’ve been offered membership of steering committees and other things that I would never have had the opportunity to do if I hadn’t been part of the Advisory Group”
The board meeting concluded on a positive note, with gratitude expressed for the valuable contributions, opinions, and ideas shared by all attendees. These inputs will play a crucial role in shaping the ongoing work at the Wolfson Centre. The in-person meeting further enhanced collaboration and provided a platform for meaningful dialogue.
