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Seventeen-year-old Kaydee is striving to make a positive difference as one of Ingeus’ Youth Voice Ambassadors. Helping to make sure Ingeus’ services meet the needs of her peers, she’s a voice for young people. Add on her role as a Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider), and her impact grows ever wider. 

 

With youth mental health in the spotlight, it’s more important than ever for organisations to support young people. Here at Ingeus, Youth Voice – a dynamic volunteer team of 16-25 year-olds – plays an integral role in representing younger participants and ensuring our services are youth friendly, both today and in the future. 

 

Kaydee, from Nottingham, joined Youth Voice two years ago. In 2024, the A-Level student was invited to add to her role and become a MHFAider – an achievement we’re celebrating as part of England’s first ever MHFAider Day. 

 

She says: “I’m so grateful to Ingeus for running Youth Voice and giving me the opportunity to support young people’s mental health. I’ve had my own mental health battles and wouldn’t wish the same on anyone. It’s rewarding when I’ve helped someone who was in a very low place and they come to thank me, saying they feel better. 

 

“Ingeus does so many things to support young people. I think all organisations should do what they can to ease the huge strain on public health services. There needs to be more prevention, giving people the space to talk without judgement.” 

 

Kaydee, who has autism, underwent two days of specialist training for the first aider role. Focusing on building her confidence and empathy, the course equipped her to advise peers at her school where she’s now a well-respected source of wellbeing support.  

 

She adds: “I’ve learnt so many transferrable skills as a Youth Voice Ambassador. Things like how to handle sensitive conversations and how to react to people – they’ll all be really useful in my future life and career. 

 

“I get some people coming to me with small issues, others which are more serious. I make sure they’re safe, stay with them and tell them about mental health services they can call on. I can’t diagnose people, but I give guidance. One girl came to see me who was really struggling with her anxiety. I helped her access talking therapy and support from school.” 

 

Alongside her MHFAider role, Kaydee is also invited to attend regular Youth Voice meetings and to work with Ingeus teams to give feedback and ideas. She attended a week-long Restart Scheme residential programme designed to strengthen participants’ confidence and employability skills. The Youth Voice Ambassadors were there to ensure the sessions met their aims, while also encouraging participants to feel more confident in taking part in discussions and workshops. 

 

Discover more about Ingeus’ Youth Voice Ambassadors Youth Services | Ingeus