PHA Funded Motivational Interviewing Workshops / Mentoring Programme

Posted on August 19, 2026 by Valerie

We have now confirmed the schedule for our PHA funded Introduction to Motivational Interviewing workshops and our Advanced Motivational Interviewing with Mentoring Programme running between September and December 2026.

Please click on the link below to see the dates available if you are interested in attending either training course:

https://www.glennhinds.com/events/

The programme is open to practitioners across Northern Ireland who work with people affected by substance use, mental health and suicide prevention, or smoking cessation.

The Introduction to Motivational Interviewing is a three day programme that provides participants with a practical foundation in using Motivational Interviewing to strengthen engagement, explore ambivalence and support positive behaviour change.

For those who have already completed an Introduction to Motivational Interviewing programme, applications are also open for our Advanced Motivational Interviewing with Mentoring Programme. This includes two online classroom days followed by four individual mentoring sessions, providing participants with personalised feedback and support to further develop their MI practice.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at Training@glennhinds.com

Extern World Suicide Prevention Day

Posted on August 19, 2026 by Rosemary

Join Extern on 6th September for World Suicide Prevention Day: Building Hope, Breaking Stigma.

Together, we’ll remember those we’ve lost, raise awareness, and highlight the importance of hope, connection, and support.

Date: 6th September 11am-2pm

Location: The MAC

£5 donation (includes a free lunch)

The afternoon will include;

Inspiring lived experience talks,
Personal stories,
An original play,
Live music, and time to come together in a safe, supportive space.

Whether you’ve been personally affected, work in mental health, or simply want to show your support, you’re warmly invited.

Register now and join us as we build hope and break stigma. Together, we remember. Together, we support. Together, we bring hope.

Book here:

Free Accredited Youth Leadership Programme – 16-25 Year Olds

Posted on August 10, 2026 by Sharon

Action Mental Health promotional banner featuring a blurred classroom or group discussion setting. Two young people and an older person are seated facing one another, suggesting a conversation or peer support activity. The Action Mental Health logo appears in the top left corner, alongside the “Our Generation: Growing Up Better, Together” logo. A turquoise banner across the bottom contains the text: “Mental Health Ambassador.” The design uses purple and teal branding colours and promotes a youth mental health ambassador programme.

FREE Mental Health Ambassador Training from Action Mental Health / OUR Generation, designed for young people aged 16–25.

This engaging and interactive programme supports participants to develop the knowledge, confidence and leadership skills needed to become positive role models and champions for mental health and emotional wellbeing. It provides an excellent accredited progression opportunity for young people while enhancing their confidence, employability and CV.

The programme consists of five sessions:

Sessions 1–4: Four interactive 1.5-hour workshops
Session 5: A 3.5-hour SafeTALK suicide alertness training workshop

Throughout the programme, participants will:

Develop a greater understanding of mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Build confidence, communication, leadership and active listening skills.
Increase their knowledge of peer support, safeguarding and appropriate referral pathways.
Learn how to promote positive mental health and reduce stigma within their setting.
Plan and deliver a positive mental health initiative or awareness activity.
Gain a nationally recognised SafeTALK accreditation.
Receive a Mental Health Ambassador certificate and badge upon successful completion.

The programme is highly interactive and engaging, using group discussions, practical activities, peer learning, creative planning and collaborative projects to ensure young people are actively involved throughout.

Following completion, Mental Health Ambassadors can take on a peer leadership role within your own setting. This may include acting as peer supporters, peer mentors, student leaders, youth ambassadors, wellbeing champions or mental health advocates, depending on the needs and structure of your organisation. They will be equipped to promote positive mental health, encourage help-seeking, challenge stigma and signpost peers to trusted adults and appropriate support when needed.

This programme is particularly suited to:

Schools and post-primary settings
Further and higher education providers
Youth organisations and youth clubs
Community and voluntary organisations
Youth forums and youth councils
Young volunteers
Existing peer mentor or ambassador programmes
Young people interested in developing leadership skills and gaining accredited training

Download Information Flyer: https://cypsp.hscni.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Mental-Health-Ambassador-Flyer-Aug-26.pdf

Celebrating Excellence: Children’s Services Planning Team Recognized for Outstanding Contributions

Posted on November 27, 2025 by Valerie

At this year’s SPPG Recognition and Awards event, the Children’s Services Planning Team was celebrated for its exceptional work in supporting the Children and Young People’s Strategic Partnership (CYPSP). The team received multiple commendations for initiatives that have made a real difference to children, young people, and families across the region.

Driving Success Through Collaboration

The team was highly commended under the Partnership and Driving Success category for its work on The Youth Wellness Web. This innovative online platform provides young people with easy access to mental health and wellbeing resources, empowering them to find support when they need it most.

“The Youth Wellness Web is about giving young people the tools to take control of their wellbeing. It’s a collaborative effort that reflects our commitment to listening and responding to their needs,” said a spokesperson from the Children’s Services Planning Team.

Explore the Youth Wellness Web

Innovation in Data Intelligence

The team was also highly commended in the Innovation in Data Intelligence category for its Interactive Mapping and Performance System. This system represents a significant step forward in how data is used to inform planning and service delivery for children and families. By visualizing key indicators and trends, the platform enables decision-makers to target resources effectively and respond to emerging needs with precision.

Learn more about CYPSP Mapping Tools

Breaking Down Barriers with the Translation Hub

In addition, the team’s Translation Hub was recognized under the Excellence and Outstanding Performance category. This initiative ensures that vital information and resources are accessible to families whose first language is not English. By providing translated materials and culturally sensitive communication, the hub promotes inclusivity and equal access to services, strengthening support for diverse communities.

Access the Translation Hub

Commitment to Children and Families

These achievements highlight the unwavering commitment of the Children’s Services Planning Team to improving the lives of children and young people across the region. Their work demonstrates how collaboration, creativity, and data-driven approaches can lead to meaningful change and better outcomes for families.

“These projects show what can be achieved when we work together with a shared vision for children and young people. Congratulations to everyone involved,” said Tracey McCaig, Chief Operating Officer.

Congratulations to Bronwyn, Valerie, Louise, Sharon and Yvonne