Our collaborative Young People's Mental Health event

On 13 February 2026, Healthwatch Kensington and Chelsea collaborated with Strengthening Kensington Youth Families and organised a community discussion with residents and local stakeholders to explore the pressures affecting young people’s mental health and wellbeing. Members of the community attended the event, sharing experiences and ideas about the challenges young people face today and what support may help.

Participants discussed several key issues impacting young people, including academic pressure, social media influences, family relationships, and access to support services. Many highlighted the growing expectations placed on young people in education, particularly around university, finances, and career choices. Some felt that alternatives such as apprenticeships are often undervalued, despite becoming increasingly competitive.

The role of social media was also a major topic. Attendees spoke about the pressures created by online comparisons, influencer culture, and unrealistic expectations. While some recognised positive aspects of social media, there were concerns about cyberbullying, harmful online challenges, and the impact of constant comparison on young people’s confidence and mental wellbeing.

Participants emphasised the importance of strong support networks, including families, communities, and youth services. Some noted that young people who lack these networks may turn to social media or online spaces for support, which can expose them to risks such as exploitation or misinformation.

There were also discussions about barriers to accessing help, including stigma around mental health and long waiting times for assessments such as autism and ADHD. Some participants felt that services do not always reflect the diversity of the communities they serve, and that greater trust and representation are needed.

Throughout the discussion, attendees suggested several ways to better support young people. These included improving awareness of local youth services and mentorship schemes, encouraging open conversations about mental health, strengthening community spaces, and ensuring services listen carefully to young people’s experiences.

Healthwatch Kensington and Chelsea will continue to gather residents' feedback to help inform local services and improve support for young people across the borough.