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In recent years, there's been a growing awareness of mental health issues affecting young people. However, one group that often flies under the radar is Black girls, particularly those living in urban environments. Today, we're shining a light on the unique challenges they face and how these impact their mental well-being.  The Weight of ResponsibilityMany Black girls find themselves shouldering adult-like responsibilities from a young age. This phenomenon, known as "adultification" or "parentification," can have profound effects on their mental health: Excessive Chores In many households, Black girls are expected to take on a significant share of domestic duties. While helping out is important, an overwhelming focus on chores can rob them of crucial childhood experiences. Limited Play Time With so much time dedicated to household tasks, there's little left for play, creativity, and self-discovery – all vital for healthy development. Premature Stress Adult responsibilities can lead to stress levels more typical of adults, affecting sleep, mood, and overall well-being. Colorism and Beauty Standards Many Black girls face the added pressure of feeling unattractive due to their darker skin, a result of pervasive colorism and Eurocentric beauty standards. This can lead to low self-esteem, body image issues, and even dangerous skin-lightening practices. Hypersexualisation Mainstream media often portrays Black women in hypersexualised ways, a stereotype that can affect Black girls from a young age. This premature sexualisation can lead to issues with self-image, inappropriate attention from adults, and confusion about personal boundaries and self-worth. The Squeeze on Space and RecreationUrban environments present unique challenges for Black girls' mental health and development. Limited access to safe, open spaces and recreational activities can significantly impact their well-being. This "squeeze" on physical freedom and play opportunities compounds the stress from household responsibilities, creating a perfect storm for mental health struggles. Cramped Living Spaces Many families in urban areas live in small apartments or shared housing, limiting indoor play options and personal space. Lack of Green Spaces Safe, accessible parks and playgrounds are often scarce in urban neighborhoods, restricting opportunities for outdoor recreation. Safety Concerns Even when green spaces exist, safety issues may prevent families from allowing children to play outside freely. The Mental Health Toll The combination of heavy responsibilities and limited recreational opportunities can have serious mental health consequences, these include: - Increased rates of anxiety and depression - Low self-esteem and poor body image - Difficulty forming peer relationships - Reduced academic performance - Higher risk of developing stress-related physical health issues Cultural Context and Stigma It's crucial to understand these issues within their cultural context, below we explore explore the power of stigma and cultural barriers to supporting black girls mental health; - Mental health stigma in some Black communities can prevent open discussions and help-seeking behaviors. - Strong cultural emphasis on resilience may inadvertently discourage acknowledging mental health struggles. - Intersectionality of race, gender, and class creates a complex web of challenges that standard mental health approaches may not adequately address. Moving Forward: Solutions and SupportAddressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach, below we have listed solutions and support that can improve the mental health outcomes for vulnerable black girls. Awareness Educate families, educators, and communities about the importance of play and recreation for Black girls' mental health. Community Initiatives Develop safe, accessible recreational spaces in urban neighborhoods. Family Support Provide resources to help families balance household responsibilities more equitably. Culturally Competent Care Ensure mental health services understand and address the unique pressures faced by Black girls. School Programs Implement school-based initiatives that provide opportunities for play, creativity, and stress relief. Policy Changes Advocate for policies that improve living conditions and recreational opportunities in urban areas. How Mentoring Can HelpThe Power of Youth Mentoring: A Beacon of HopeIn the face of these challenges, youth mentoring emerges as a powerful tool for supporting Black girls' mental health and providing early intervention. Here's how mentoring can make a difference:
ConclusionBy recognising and addressing these challenges, we can work towards better mental health outcomes for Black girls. It's time to ensure that every child, regardless of race or circumstance, has the opportunity to truly be a child – to play, to dream, and to grow in a supportive environment. At The Mentoring Lab we advocate for Black girls, reminding girls, parents and caregivers that mental health is just as important as physical health. If you or a young person you know is struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for help at: The Mentoring Lab Mind at www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool or Kooth. Together, we can build a future where every Black girl has the support she needs to thrive mentally and emotionally. 
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In the face of these challenges, youth mentoring emerges as a powerful tool for supporting Black girls' mental health and providing early intervention. Mentoring programs tailored to the unique needs of Black girls can make a significant difference in several ways. First and foremost, mentors serve as positive role models, challenging negative stereotypes and showcasing diverse paths to success. Seeing successful Black women in various fields can boost self-esteem and expand horizons for young girls who may have limited exposure to such examples in their immediate environment. Mentoring relationships also provide a safe space for expression. These judgment-free zones allow girls to voice their feelings, fears, and aspirations openly. This emotional outlet is crucial for mental well-being, especially when girls might feel pressured to appear strong or self-reliant in other aspects of their lives. Cultural understanding is another key benefit of mentoring programs for Black girls. Mentors who share similar backgrounds can offer nuanced support that acknowledges the unique pressures these girls face, from colorism to family responsibilities. This culturally competent guidance can be particularly valuable in navigating complex issues that may not be fully understood by others. Skill-building is an integral part of mentoring relationships. Mentors can help girls develop coping strategies, improve communication skills, and learn self-advocacy tools. These skills empower girls to navigate challenges more effectively, both in their personal lives and in broader societal contexts. Early intervention is perhaps one of the most crucial aspects of youth mentoring. Regular interactions with mentors can help identify early signs of mental health struggles, allowing for timely intervention and support. This proactive approach can prevent issues from escalating and ensure that girls receive help when they need it most. Mentors also play a vital role in providing academic and career guidance. By offering academic support and insights into various career paths, mentors can help alleviate stress related to school performance and future prospects. This guidance can be particularly valuable for girls who may lack access to such resources within their immediate family or community. Many mentoring programs involve group activities, which help foster community connections. These experiences allow girls to build peer relationships and reduce feelings of isolation. The sense of belonging that comes from these connections can significantly boost mental well-being. Promoting self-care is another important aspect of mentoring. Mentors can emphasize the importance of taking time for oneself and help girls carve out space for relaxation and personal interests amidst their responsibilities. Learning to prioritize self-care from a young age can have long-lasting benefits for mental health. Open discussions with mentors about mental health can help break down stigma and normalize seeking help when needed. By modeling healthy attitudes towards mental health, mentors can encourage girls to prioritize their emotional well-being and reach out for support without shame or hesitation. Finally, the positive effects of mentoring often extend far beyond the program duration. The skills, confidence, and support network gained through mentoring can set girls up for better mental health outcomes in adulthood. This long-term impact makes mentoring a powerful tool for creating lasting change. By investing in youth mentoring programs specifically tailored to the needs of Black girls, we can provide a crucial support system that addresses many of the unique challenges they face. These programs serve not just as early intervention for mental health issues, but as a proactive measure to empower Black girls, boost their resilience, and help them thrive despite systemic obstacles.  The Silent Struggle: Why African, Caribbean, and Muslim Girls Aren't Seeking Mental Health Support19/7/2024 In the UK, a silent crisis has unfolded among young African, Caribbean, and Muslim girls. Despite facing significant mental health challenges, these groups are notably less likely to seek or receive the support they desperately need. This reluctance stems from a complex web of cultural stigma, systemic barriers, and societal pressures unique to their experiences. As mental health issues continue to rise among youth, the gap in access and utilisation of services for these girls widens, potentially leading to long-term consequences. In this article we delve into the reasons behind their hesitance to seek help, the impact of this silence, and the urgent need for tailored interventions to address this critical issue. At The Mentoring Lab Community C.I.C the MY HEALTH Mental Health Education Project seeks to address this complex web of barriers to accessing support.  Do black girls mental health issues stem from them not feeling beautiful or seen?No, its deeper than this. That's why it's important to offer safe spaces where Black girls can explore topics around wellness and mental health with a wider lense. The MY Health project seeks to share research and data on Black Girls Mental Health, to better inform young people and their caregivers of contributing factors to mental health issues and most importantly where they can seek help. The Scale of the ProblemPrevalence of Mental Health Issues According to a study by the National Health Service (NHS) in 2023, approximately 1 in 6 children aged 5 to 16 years old in England were identified as having a probable mental disorder. However, the rates were significantly higher among Black communities. Disparity in Access The Mental Health Foundation reported in 2022 that Black British children were 10% less likely to access mental health services compared to their White British counterparts. This disparity was even more pronounced for girls from African, Caribbean, and Muslim backgrounds. Reasons for Reluctance Despite the prevalence of mental health issues, many young African, Caribbean, and Muslim girls in the UK hesitate to seek support. This reluctance stems from various cultural, social, and systemic factors. Cultural Stigma A 2023 survey by Mind, a mental health charity in England and Wales, found that 68% of young Black and Muslim girls felt that seeking mental health support would be viewed negatively within their communities. Lack of Cultural Competence in Services The Race Equality Foundation highlighted in a 2024 report that only 9% of NHS mental health professionals in England identified as Black, Asian, or from other ethnic minority backgrounds, potentially leading to cultural misunderstandings and reduced trust. Fear of Misdiagnosis Research published in the British Journal of Psychiatry in 2023 indicated that Black individuals in the UK were 4 times more likely to be diagnosed with severe mental illnesses compared to White individuals, often due to cultural misinterpretation of symptoms. Family Dynamics A study by the University of Manchester in 2024 found that 45% of African and Caribbean girls aged 10-18 reported feeling pressured to handle emotional issues within the family, rather than seeking external support. Religious Considerations The Muslim Council of Britain conducted a survey in 2023 which revealed that 57% of young Muslim girls preferred to seek guidance from religious leaders rather than mental health professionals when dealing with emotional distress. Consequences of Non-Engagement Understanding these barriers is crucial, as non-engagement can lead to severe consequences, affecting their overall well-being and future prospects. Below we explore the consequences of non engagement on Black Girls mental health. Escalation of Mental Health Issues The Children's Commissioner for England reported in 2024 that untreated mental health problems in Black and Muslim girls were 30% more likely to escalate to severe conditions requiring intensive intervention. Academic Impact Data from the Department for Education in 2023 showed that Black and Muslim girls with untreated mental health issues were 25% more likely to experience a decline in academic performance compared to their peers who received support. Long-term Health Outcomes A longitudinal study by King's College London, published in 2024, suggested that African, Caribbean, and Muslim women who didn't receive mental health support in their youth were 40% more likely to experience chronic mental health conditions in adulthood. What can we do to help?Here are 5 things caregivers and parents can do to support the mental health of young African, Caribbean, and Muslim girls in the UK; 1. Open Dialogue Create a safe, judgment-free space at home for discussing mental health. Encourage open conversations about emotions, stress, and well-being. This can help normalise mental health discussions and reduce stigma within the family unit. 2. Educate Themselves Take the initiative to learn about common mental health issues affecting young girls, particularly those specific to their cultural background. This knowledge can help in recognising early signs of distress and understanding appropriate ways to offer support. 3. Seek Culturally Competent Support Research and connect with mental health professionals or organizations that specialise in working with African, Caribbean, or Muslim communities. This can ensure that any professional help sought is culturally sensitive and appropriate. 4. Promote Positive Cultural Identity Encourage pride in cultural heritage while also fostering an understanding of living in a multicultural society. This can help build resilience and self-esteem, which are crucial for good mental health. 5. Balance Cultural Expectations Recognise the potential pressure of cultural expectations and find a healthy balance. This might involve moderating expectations around academic performance, household responsibilities, or social behavior, ensuring they don't come at the cost of the child's mental well-being. These actions can help create a supportive environment that prioritises mental health while respecting cultural values and identities. ConclusionThe reluctance of African, Caribbean, and Muslim girls in the UK to seek mental health support is a complex issue rooted in cultural, social, and systemic factors. Addressing this challenge requires a multi-faceted approach involving community engagement, culturally sensitive mental health services, and increased awareness campaigns tailored to these specific groups. To combat this silent struggle, initiatives focusing on destigmatising mental health within these communities, increasing the diversity of mental health professionals, and developing culturally appropriate support systems are crucial. By breaking down these barriers, we can ensure that young African, Caribbean, and Muslim girls in the UK receive the mental health support they need and deserve. Register a young person todayMY HEALTH, is a Mental Health Education project, free to black girls, their parents, schools and community organisations. Participants gain: - Free group and one to one Youth Mentoring - Befriending Trips - Free Counselling for Black Girls and their Carer givers In an era where technology and gaming are integral parts of youth culture, this year at The Mentoring Lab we will meet youth where they are at to untap potential using esports. Our upcoming Community Youth Esports Tournament during the summer has the potential to significantly build young people's skills, character and key employability qualities. Esports, is misunderstood by many parents and caregivers, however we understand that esports offer more than just entertainment. Its provides a platform for young people to develop crucial life skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. By participating in our tournament, youth will have the opportunity to cultivate these skills in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment. Moreover, our program serves as a powerful diversion activity, reducing the likelihood of youth involvement in crime or becoming victims of crime. By providing a positive outlet for their energy and interests, we aim to foster a sense of belonging and purpose among participants. As one youth leader noted, this project will engage their friends who struggle with socialisation, helping them build connections and develop their social skills.
The educational components of our program further enhance its impact. Through workshops, tutorials, and discussions, participants will learn about the positive aspects of gaming, the importance of balanced habits, and the exciting career opportunities within the esports industry. By addressing common misconceptions and equipping youth with knowledge, we empower them to become advocates for the benefits of esports. Our dedication to inclusivity is reflected in the girls-only tournament, which promotes gender equality and encourages participation from all. As we strive to meet young people where they are, this project ignites excitement and provides direction when hope seems low. Through the Hackney Youth Esports Tournament, we are not just investing in a game; we are investing in the future of our youth and the strength of our community. Let us embrace the power of esports to inspire, empower, and unite the next generation. To register your interest please sign up here Elaine Isadora Thomas Founder Ceo Leadership is a skill that can be developed and nurtured, and youth mentoring programs play a vital role in helping young people discover and cultivate their leadership potential. At The Mentoring Lab, our mentors are dedicated to empowering young people to become the leaders of tomorrow.
A study by the University of Chicago found that youth who participated in leadership development programs showed increased self-efficacy, improved decision-making skills, and a greater sense of social responsibility compared to their peers who did not participate in such programs. Our mentors work closely with young people to help them identify their strengths, passions, and goals. Through one-on-one mentoring sessions and group workshops, mentors provide guidance, support, and opportunities for young people to develop their leadership skills. Whether it's through public speaking exercises, community service projects, or skill-building activities, our programs are designed to help young people discover their unique talents and learn how to use them to make a positive impact in their communities. We believe that every young person has the potential to be a leader, regardless of their background or circumstances. While our programs focus on African, Caribbean, and global majority youth, we welcome all young people to participate. We recognise that diverse perspectives and experiences are essential to building strong, inclusive communities, and we are committed to creating opportunities for all young people to thrive. If you are a parent, caregiver, or community member who wants to support the next generation of leaders, we invite you to get involved with The Mentoring Lab, sign up to volunteer here. To refer a young person to our free mentoring opportunities, explore what's on and sign up here Whether you sign up a young person for one of our programs or become a volunteer mentor yourself, you can play a vital role in igniting a young person's potential and inspiring them to create positive change in the world. Together, we can build a future where every young person has the opportunity to lead with confidence, commitment and courage. Peer mentoring is a powerful tool for supporting young people's personal and social development. At The Mentoring Lab, we believe in the transformative potential of peer mentoring and have seen firsthand the positive impact it can have on young people's lives.
Research has shown that peer mentoring can lead to improved academic performance, increased self-esteem, and better social skills among participating youth. A study by the National Mentoring Resource Center in the USA, found that peer mentoring programs can be particularly effective for young people who may be at risk of academic disengagement or social isolation. Our peer mentoring programs are designed to create meaningful connections between young people who share similar experiences and challenges. By pairing youth with trained peer mentors who have overcome similar obstacles, we help create a sense of belonging and provide a safe space for young people to express themselves and learn from one another. Peer mentors serve as positive role models, offering guidance, support, and encouragement to their mentees. Through regular check-ins and group activities, peer mentors help their mentees set goals, develop new skills, and navigate the challenges of growing up. Whether it's providing academic support, offering advice on personal relationships, or simply being a listening ear, peer mentors play a vital role in helping young people thrive. INCLUSIVE MENTORING OPPORTUNITIES While our programs focus on African, Caribbean, and global majority youth, we welcome all young people to participate. We recognise that the power of peer mentoring lies in its ability to bridge divides and create connections across different backgrounds and experiences. If you are a parent, caregiver, or community member who wants to support young people's personal and social development, we encourage you to consider peer mentoring. SIGN UP Sign up to our Peer Mentoring Programme today by clicking here. Whether you sign up a young person for one of our programs or become a volunteer peer mentor yourself, you can make a meaningful difference in a young person's life. Together, we can build a future where every young person has the opportunity to connect, grow, and thrive. We are a 100% Black-led youth organisation, we have a black British female Founder CEO, who lives in the community we serve, we also have an all black voluntary board of directors, who are from Black British backgrounds with lived experience of achieving in very adverse circumstances and strong links with local and wider communities across London.
Richard Nero (Volunteer Partnerships Director): FinTech Consultant and the UK’s No1 LinkedIn Excel Expert Daniel Max- Orumbie (Volunteer Safeguarding and Vulnerable Youth Director): One of a small number of Black Male Social Work Managers in the Country Evonne Riley (Volunteer Finance Director): Head of Maths Department Becky Gittens (Volunteer director of youth voice): Ex participant, young mum and survivor of youth violence -100% of our directors are black -100% of our delivery staff are from Black, Asian and marginalised communities. -100% of our youth panel is from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds We believe that our participants are fantabulous. 'Diamonds in the rough', aged 10-25 years old from black and marginalised communities, predominantly living in social housing.
They are young people with draw-dropping creative thinking, inspiring values, unsurpassable grit, without solid guidance on how to focus their skills and talents. However, the rise in the cost of living is putting already struggling families under extreme pressure, unable to afford rising entertainment or youth participation costs or, due to the intersection of issues, struggle to organise activities for their children to participate in. Our systemic support has given us insight into young people's home life, where we are seeing high levels of need, i.e. parents who are no longer getting out of bed, children being fed unhealthy food, children whose mental health is suffering as a result of no structure or help to understand and respond positively to these challenging times. Families may be allowing another member of the family to live with them to share costs, or where parents are not unemployed they are working multiple jobs to make ends meet. Trying their best to love and care for their children, many feel overwhelmed, out of touch with youth culture, or unable to steer their child in a positive direction, this is especially so for caregivers who are supported by adult social services, or have a special education need themselves. Participants most at risk may live in either overcrowded homes, common households with extended members of the family residing with them or share a room with sibling/s, with little access to outside space and little structure to their lives, causing them to have no where safe to relax, reflect or simply have time to themselves. We are seeing young people who are bored, stressed, and anxious about their safety, friendships and future. Young people who may have already been struggling with school have been left with little support because many of the services they relied upon have limited funds or have stopped running altogether. 30% of our participants are at risk of or have been school excluded. The quality of school provisions does vary, however many of our participants experience educational inequalities, that create barriers to accessing high-quality education. Many participants need support to organise themselves, to make the best of what school is providing. Unfortunately, this support is not possible from busy, overworked or depressed parents, coping with the impact of structural and systemic injustice in their own lives. The above show the intersection of issues and gaps created by structural and system racial inequalities, causing young people from African and Caribbean backgrounds more at risk of violence and criminal involvement (as victims or perpetrator). Research conducted by Youth Endowment Fund shows that minority ethnic children were more likely to feel the effects of violence, or the fear of violence in their day-to-day life, with 55% of Asian, 54% of Black and 53% of mixed ethnicity children reporting impacts on their daily lives, compared to 45% of White children. 37% of children on free school meals, 46% of children supported by a social worker, and 67% of children supported by a youth offending team; they say they have skipped school in the past 12 months. 48% of teenage children who said they’d committed violence were also victims of violence. This proportion increased to 81% for those who said they were part of a gang, 78% for those supported by a youth offending team and 64% for those receiving free school meals. Black teenage children were, on average, more likely to be vulnerable as both victims (21%) and perpetrators (22%) compared to White children (16% and 14%, respectively). As such, through this project, we will target and prioritise young people who have the following Risk Indicators: - Receive free school meals - From a low-income / unemployed family -Single carer family -supported by a social worker/Looked After Children -Learning needs or neurodiverse -At risk of school exclusion / experiencing school exclusion (in all forms) -On the Camhs waiting list -Access Early Help services -supported by a youth offending team -Has a family member associated with youth violence, gangs or criminal behaviour -Past history of youth violence, gangs or criminal behaviour -History of being a missing person or experiencing homelessness (homelessness in all forms) -With caregiver receiving support from social services or NHS -Young people who are or have sibling/s affected by criminal exploitation (county lines) - A Member of family experiencing domestic violence, mental health or addiction Upon referral, young people must complete a registration form or contact, which acts as a baseline assessment and evaluation tools to assess the risk level of each young person. As such Risk indicators help us to assess -Our capacity to support the young person (and if not who we can refer/signpost them to) -Mentoring style and project best placed to support the young person -Thresholds necessary to engage the young person -If we have capacity if we need to prioritise their onboarding -How we can offer equal and fair support, based on the young person's needs. |
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The Mentoring Lab Community CIC
Rights and Equalities In Newham 478 Barking Road London E13 8QB |
Office Number: 02081588500
Office mobile/whatsapp: 07412640174
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Registered Community Interest Company Number 12269937
Website designed with the help of our Youth leaders
Website designed with the help of our Youth leaders