Our Time supports and champions young people affected by parental mental illness. Our aim is to create safe and supportive environments for young people who have a parent with a mental illness, where they can receive clear explanations about mental illness and have the opportunity to discuss their concerns amongst peers.
We’ve established monthly KidsTime Workshops throughout the UK, where children and young people whose parents have a mental illness are supported to thrive, despite the challenges and responsibilities they face. These friendly sessions for children, young people and families, provide clear explanations of mental illness and treatments, peer support and creative activities. They’re safe spaces where children and young people are free to talk about their concerns, have fun and foster positive relationships with their families. We currently have a monthly workshop operating from the Bessborough Centre in Pimlico, and you can find more information and referral details here.
Our educational programme ‘Who Cares?’ for primary school, secondary schools and colleges, is designed to help teachers and staff identify pupils affected by parental mental illness, and offer the support they need. We provide training and resources which enable staff to set up support systems and talk to young people about their individual situations, without requiring them to assume the role of counsellor or therapist.
Further information on our work can be found in the following brochures:
General introduction to Our Time