Anna Sabine MP and Beacon Services launch exciting full programme for Children’s Mental health hackathon
Anna Sabine MP and Beacon Services launch exciting full programme for Children’s Mental health hackathon
Earlier this summer, Anna Sabine, MP for Frome and East Somerset, in partnership with Beacon Services Resources CIC, supported by Frome Medical Practice, announced an ambitious new initiative: a town-wide “Hackathon” aimed at addressing the growing challenge of mental health in children and young people.
Taking place on Saturday 6th September, the event will bring together young people, parents, teachers, and health professionals to explore the barriers to identifying and supporting mental health issues, and to develop practical, community-led solutions.
Today they have unveiled the full programme of events ahead of 6th September including, talks, interactive events and panel discussions aimed at identifying triggers and understanding the complexity of mental health in children and adolescents and how we as a community can be support our youth.
The event schedule kicks off with a panel discussion at Frome’s Town Hall hosted by Anna Sabine MP and Lisa Merryweather-Millard from Beacon Resources, with panellists from organisations with lived experience of dealing with children and young people with mental unease, and discussing the broad array of contributory factors from relationship dynamics to climate anxiety.
There will be talks led by experts like Early Signs That The Kids Aren't Okay - what behaviours can tell us a discussion event looking at signs to look out for in children and From Burnout to Wellbeing with Dr Veronica Roberts which discusses possible symptoms to look out for of burnout in children and how to support their recovery.
Join a fascinating panel sharing insights and understanding on what children might not always vocalise in What children don't say! Panel discussion with former school welfare leads as well as joining in solution led events looking at alternative ways to connect with children through the arts.
Music For Family Wellbeing with Bath Philharmonic Conductor Emeritus at the Cheese and Grain will be hour filled with music, fun, and relaxation for the whole family. Hosted by Bath Philharmonic Conductor Emeritus and Music Leader Jason Thornton, Jason wants to share his background in promoting wellbeing through the power of music. Whilst Guardian Games Editor and award-winning novelist, Keith Stewart will lead a talk on the potential benefits of video games for children as a positive influence in 'What if video games were good for kids?' at Frome Library.
The day will be rounded off with a Play for Mental Health session with trained therapist and social worker, Charlotte Jenkins where attendees can learn valuable tips from a seasoned professional in a warm and friendly atmosphere for strategies on improving your family mental wellbeing through play.
And a Silent Disco with Mojo Moves with Frome’s infamous Cheryl Sprinkler to dance your way to good mental health and shake if out to some great tunes!
All events are free with tickets available on Eventbrite – so sign up now to get involved!
Anna Sabine MP said
“Children and young people are growing up in an increasingly complex world - both online and offline - and it’s vital we take the time to truly understand the pressures they face. As a mother of teenagers myself, the wellbeing of young people is close to my heart. I hope the Hackathon will create an open and constructive space for the community to come together, share experiences, and build practical solutions that genuinely meet the needs of young people in Frome.”
Frome is a town known for its strong sense of community, and with this initiative, Anna Sabine MP, Beacon Services Resources CIC, with support from Frome Medical Practice hope to harness that collective spirit to make a meaningful, lasting difference in the lives of young people.
If you’re not around on the day, there are still ways to get involved! Earlier in the summer we launched surveys for both children and adults to get insight in to current understandings and where the gaps are in dealing with children and their mental wellbeing. These are still live and available here.
Join us for a proactive day of fun, informative, engaging events!
All events are free but ticketed. Get tickets for all events here.
FULL PROGRAMME:
10am (1hr)
Panel Discussion hosted by Anna Sabine MP and Lisa Merryweather – Millard
@ Town Hall
Join us at Frome Town Hall for a panel and audience discussion on the state of children and young people's mental health in Frome and what we can do about it as a community. The event will bring together people from a number of sectors to explore the factors affecting mental health from their lived experience working with young people.
10 am (1hr)
Music For Family Wellbeing with Bath Philharmonic Conductor Emeritus
@ Cheese and Grain
Join us at Cheese & Grain for an hour filled with music, fun, and relaxation for the whole family. The event, hosted by Bath Philharmonic Conductor Emeritus and Music Leader Jason Thornton, is designed to promote wellbeing through the power of music. Let the rhythm soothe your soul and bring joy to your heart.
Whether you're a music enthusiast or just looking for a day of good vibes, this event is perfect for you and your loved ones. So grab your family and friends, and come experience the magic of music together!
10am
'Early Signs That The Kids Aren't Okay - what behaviours can tell us'
@ Frome Library
Come join us at Frome Library for an eye-opening event where we will discuss the early signs that might indicate things aren't quite right. Learn about the behaviours that can give us valuable insight into a child's well-being. This in-person event will provide you with important knowledge that can help you support those around you. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding!
12pm
What children don't say! Panel discussion with former school welfare leads
@ Frome Library
What children don't say! Join us for a fascinating panel discussion with former school welfare leads as they share insights on understanding what children may not always vocalise. This in-person event will be held at Frome Library, so mark your calendars and come ready to learn!
1pm (45min)
A Child's Journey from Burnout to Wellbeing with Dr Roberts
@ Cheese and Grain
Come join us at Cheese & Grain for an enlightening event where Dr Veronica Roberts will share valuable insights on helping children navigate from burnout to wellbeing. This in-person event promises to be an eye-opening experience for parents, educators, and anyone interested in children's mental health. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a renowned expert in the field!
2pm (45min)
'What if video games were good for kids?' A talk by Keith Stewart
@ Frome Library
Join us at Frome Library for a fascinating talk by The Guardian Games Editor and award-winning novelist, Keith Stewart, on the topic "What if video games were good for kids?" Discover the potential benefits of video games for children, and how they can be a positive influence in their lives. Keith will share his insights and personal experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn more about the impact of video games on kids!
2pm (1hr 30min)
Silent Disco with Mojo Moves
@ TBC
Get ready to dance yourself to good mental health at our Silent Disco with Frome's infamous Cheryl Sprinkler - it's gonna be a wild time!
3pm
Play for Mental Health - tips from a professional
@ Cheese and Grain
Join us at Cheese & Grain with Charlotte Jenkins, trained therapist, Social Worker and CEO of Beacon Family Services CIC and Beacon Services Resources CIC, for an insightful session on mental health. Learn valuable tips from a seasoned professional in a warm and friendly atmosphere. This in-person event is your chance to gain practical advice and strategies for improving your family mental wellbeing. Don't miss out on this opportunity to prioritise your mental health and connect with others who share similar goals. Secure your spot today!
4pm (1hr 30min)
Silent Disco with Mojo Moves
@ TBC
Get ready to dance yourself to good mental health at our Silent Disco with Frome's infamous Cheryl Sprinkler - it's gonna be a wild time!