Children’s Mental Health Week 2026

Bromley Y supports Place2Be with this year’s Children’s Mental Health Week theme, “This is My Place” which is a powerful reminder of how closely a sense of belonging is linked to children and young people’s mental health.   Feeling welcomed, valued and safe – at home, at school and in the wider community – helps young people build confidence, resilience and strong relationships. When children feel they belong, they are more likely to talk about their feelings, seek support when things are difficult and engage positively with learning and friendships. On the other hand, feeling excluded or overlooked can contribute to loneliness and emotional distress.

Government guidance and recent investment in mental health support in schools show growing recognition of the importance of supportive environments and trusted relationships. However, belonging is built in everyday moments – through being listened to, included, and having differences celebrated.

Children’s Mental Health Week is a valuable opportunity for families, schools and communities to reflect on how they help every child feel: “I matter here.”

We encourage young people to take part in community activities, building their self-confidence, self-esteem and sense of belonging. Read more about our ACTIVATE, social prescribing programme.

“We must recognise that outcomes that often derive from less clinical work – such as belonging, confidence and agency – are predictive of later mental health outcomes.” Future Minds Report 2026