A Cumbrian MP has become an ambassador for a young people’s mental health charity.
Tim Farron, who represents Westmorland & Lonsdale, has become Wave Forward’s Be Active Ambassador.
The MP has supported the Kendal-based charity since it was established in 2020.
The mental health charity is developed alongside young people, for young people, actively co-creating services, programmes and campaigns.
Lil May, director at Wave Forward, said: “We believe that all Young People deserve to live their life full of joy and purpose. Sadly, levels of mental ill health amongst young people are on the rise.
“This surging demand is leading to increasing waiting list times, meaning many young people can’t get the support they need, when they need it most.
“Wave Forward is here to turn the tide on this rising crisis, but we can’t do it without the help and support of others.
“We’re so excited to have Tim on board as our Be Active Ambassador helping us raise awareness of the issues faced by young people and support our fundraising efforts so that we may continue our vital work across Kendal and the South Lakes.”
Four further ambassadors will be revealed and each will align with one of the Five to Thrive themes, which is Wave Forward’s take on The Economics Foundation’s Five Ways to Wellbeing system – a scientifically proven method to managing, maintaining and boosting wellbeing.
Mr Farron said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be Wave Forward’s Be Active Ambassador.
“With Cumbria’s mental health hospital admissions for Young People and self-harm in under-18s exceeding national averages, we need to support the local work of the fantastic non-profit organisations that are desperately trying to help.
“Wave Forward offers tailored services, like counselling, to our young people when they need it most, but the referrals are rising and September being back-to-school time is only going to increase pressure further.”
To find out more about Wave Forward and to donate, visit www.waveforward.org.uk
