MH:2K - a youth-led approach to exploring mental health (360G-Wellcome-204034_Z_16_Z)

The purpose of MH:2K is to pilot a new method of engagement and participation for young people on biomedical science around mental health. MH:2K is a young people led, peer-to-peer approach which brings together diverse young people, decision-makers and researchers in a model specifically designed to be replicable in local areas across the country. It aims to: Stimulate interest, debate and informal learning amongst young people about biomedical science on mental health and its social and cultural impacts; Create dialogue and exchange on the areas above between young people, decision-makers and researchers; Fill gaps in young people’s, decision-makers’ and researchers’ understanding of young people’s mental health, including encouraging new ways of thinking; Reach new and diverse audiences, who are not currently engaged with biomedical science on mental health; Encourage collaborative local partnerships on young people’s mental health by bringing together diverse stakeholders. It uses a number of key engagement techniques including the recruitment of Citizen Researchers – who determine the project’s specific focus - Design Days, a Roadshow and a multi-stakeholder showcase. An Expert Panel of researchers, decision-makers and engagement specialists will inform its work. Oldham's Council and Clinical Commissioning Group are providing £10,000 match-funding each.