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Young people and families from across north London discovered new support, opportunities and connections at this year's Summer Connect Youth Mental Health & Wellbeing Festival in Enfield.

The festival brought together local services, voluntary organisations and community groups to help young people and families learn more about the support available in their area and make connections with organisations they may not otherwise have come across.

Young people and families also had the opportunity to learn more about some of our services including NHS Enfield Talking Therapies and the Enfield Integrated Mental Health Service as well as learning about the work led by our Coproduction Champions, who work across our services ensuring we embed the voice of young people in everything we do.

Held at Dugdale Arts Centre in Enfield, attendees spent the afternoon exploring information stalls, taking part in creative activities and wellbeing sessions, and speaking directly with organisations offering support, advice, activities and opportunities across the borough.

A highlight of the day was seeing young people and families engaging with the wide range of organisations in attendance and learning more about services available within their local community. The event was also hosted by a young person, whose enthusiasm and confidence helped create an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere throughout the day.

Enoch Asabere, the co-production & engagement co-ordinator, said:

"Summer Connect is all about bringing people together. We know that many young people and families aren't always aware of the support, activities and opportunities available in their local community, so creating a space where organisations can connect directly with them is incredibly valuable. It was fantastic to see so many people engaging with local services and discovering what's available to support their wellbeing."

The festival was delivered through a successful partnership between the CYPMHS Co-production Team, Dugdale Arts Centre and a range of community organisations, showcasing the power of collaboration in supporting the wellbeing of children, young people and families.

King Agyapong, the co-production & engagement manager, added:

"What stood out for me was seeing so many organisations, services and community groups in one place, all working towards the same goal of supporting young people's wellbeing. Events like this help build confidence, strengthen connections and show young people and families that support is available when they need it."

Summer Connect was first held in Haringey last year and, following its success, was brought to Enfield this year to help even more young people and families access local support networks, services and opportunities.

The event's young host Milton, who is a local resident in Enfield, said:

"It was great to be part of Summer Connect and meet so many different people and organisations. I learned a lot about what's available locally and it was really nice to see young people and families talking to services and getting involved in the activities. I hope everyone who came discovered something that could help them or someone they know."

Emma Supple, Mayor of Enfield, also joined the festival, where she met staff and learned more about the wide range of services we provide to support young people and families across the borough.

She said:

“It’s wonderful to see events like this bringing together local organisations, partners, young people and families in such a positive way. The festival created a real sense of community and highlighted the fantastic support available across Enfield.

“I was especially impressed to meet members of NLFT’s Youth Board and hear about the important role they play in shaping services.”

Thank you to everyone who attended, as well as the partners, volunteers and organisations who helped make the day such a success.