Wellbeing Wednesdays

Supporting young minds and strengthening communities

At YMCA Humber's youth club, every Wednesday is more than just another day. It’s a chance for young people to focus on their mental health, build friendships, and develop resilience.

Wellbeing Wednesdays are designed to provide a safe, supportive space where young people can explore their emotions, engage in uplifting activities, and access vital support from trained youth workers and counsellors.

Creating a safe and supportive space

For many young people, life can be overwhelming at times. Pressures from school, home life, and social media can take a toll on their wellbeing. That’s where YMCA Humber’s Wellbeing Wednesday youth club sessions come in!

These sessions, which are well attended by young people each week, offer a break from daily stresses, replacing them with a safe place, fun activities and the opportunity for open discussions about mental health.

One regular 13 year old attendee said: “I have a good relationship with the staff. I definitely feel comfortable talking to them. They have helped me quite a lot. They helped massively actually. They’ve helped me mental health wise, engagement wise with getting out the house."

Through engaging wellbeing activities like art therapy and sporting activities young people develop skills that help them navigate life’s challenges.

The power of connection and community

One of the biggest benefits of the sessions is the sense of belonging it creates. Many young people attending have formed strong friendships, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. We asked one attendee whether they had made new friends through attending the session, they replied ‘Loads! I’m friends with about 80% of this room.”

This positive environment extends beyond the walls of the youth club. Young people who feel heard and valued are more likely to engage positively in school, at home, and in their wider community. When asked whether they have learned something in a session that they use in everyday life, the attendee replied: “Yeah, there’s quite a few. Mental health stuff. Daily life stuff!”

Access to professional support

In addition to peer support, the sessions also provide access to trained youth workers and a counsellor who can offer guidance and signposting to further help if needed.

"We know that not every young person feels comfortable reaching out for help," says Sarah, a trained counsellor. "By being here, talking to them casually, and building trust, we can support them in a way that feels natural and comfortable."

For those who need extra support, the club connects young people with counselling services, ensuring that no one has to struggle alone.

The ripple effect on the wider community

The benefits of Wellbeing Wednesdays aren’t just felt by those who attend, there’s a wider impact on families, schools, and the community as a whole. When young people have access to mental health support and positive role models, they are less likely to engage in antisocial behaviour and more likely to develop healthy coping strategies.

How you can support Wellbeing Wednesdays

Despite their success, these sessions rely on funding to continue making a difference. With additional resources, the club could expand its reach, provide more one-to-one counselling opportunities, and introduce new activities that further benefit young people’s mental health.

If you’re a local business, organisation, or individual looking to support young people’s wellbeing, there are many ways to help. Whether through funding, volunteering, or spreading awareness, your support can help shape a brighter future for the next generation. 

Find out how you can get involved here.