Nottinghamshire Mental Health Advocate
1939. Chelsea Bennett
Chelsea Bennett, from Mansfield, aged 17, is a mental health advocate who uses her lived experience of anxiety and self-harm to support other young people in Nottinghamshire.
Chelsea wanted to end her life at 16 but received support from Nottinghamshire Trust’s Adolescent Mental Health Services and now has dedicated herself to volunteering with the trust and working to further boost their services. This has included converting a wooden shed into an outdoor therapy room where she gives training sessions for other young people. Chelsea also gives talks and has produced a new set of engagement resources for the trust, particularly aimed at breaking the stigma around seeking support for mental health difficulties.
Ben Bradley, MP for Mansfield, said:
“It is great to hear Chelsea being recognised for the Prime Minister’s Point of Light Award. The work she has done to help other young people following her own experiences is exemplary and she is such a brilliant role model for other young people who are in need of help and I believe she thoroughly deserves this award.”
Chelsea said:
“I feel deeply honoured receiving this award and recognition by many individuals, including professionals throughout the NHS, and can only thank those around me who have given me opportunities to provide insight into young peoples’ mental health struggles and surrounding factors. Once again thank you for the continued support.”