Jay Worthington, Suicide Prevention and Digital Participation Lead and Participation Support Worker for CAMHS across Bedfordshire & Luton describes his role.
Can you say a bit about your current role?
Part of my role is to help young people share their views and experiences so as to help shape and change things about the service through running groups and workshops, developing and delivering training and creating resources.
When did you first make contact with CAMHS and looking back now, what were your first impressions?
I first came to CAMHS back when I was 13, I remember being really anxious because I’d never spoken to anyone about what I was experiencing. Things changed a lot over time, my teenage years were pretty tough. But I had the support along the way to help me get to the place I am at the moment. It was hard, horrible and scary at times but things got brighter over time and I found ways to support myself and accept parts of myself.
I saw some incredible clinicians whose support and advice stick with me still today.
Who approached you to consider getting involved with the CAMHS People Participation team?
I think I saw a poster first, when I was about 14. It was about a magazine Niki (Niki Scott, Service User Participation & Inpatient Development Lead for CAMHS Bedfordshire & Luton)- was making with young people - I suppose this is now like our Chameleon magazine which I helped set up.
I did this for a few years, then took a bit of a step back a bit when I turned 18.
Then a few years later the vacancy for my current role came up and I was like ‘Yes! This is what I want to do’
Because out of all the studies I was doing, it was still mental health that I was most passionate about. I want to give other young people the opportunities I had at their age.
What PP project did you get involved or initiate?
I did all sorts when I was involved in People Participation as a young person. I made a film; helped write an inpatient policy that’s still used across the Trust and sat on lots of interview panels for new staff which was really interesting! I even spoke at different conferences, sharing my experiences with various professionals. I also met some incredible people along the way
Since then your work with CAMHS has strengthened and deepened, and the work the team has done on issues around equality and gender recognition has been pioneering. What would you say to other young people who have seen things that need to be improved or changed in NHS services, particularly CAMHS?
Get involved in Service User Participation!! There are so many ways you can get involved to help change services, share you experiences and views. Whether you want to attend our groups, sit on interview panels, create artwork for the clinic or share your story there are so many things you can do. It’s all about what you’re comfortable with. And it’s so rewarding seeing the changes happen, all because you and other young people have shared your views!
Any advice for young people who may be in need of mental health support but are unsure or anxious about reaching out for help?
It’s so important you reach out, as early as possible if you can – but when you’re ready too. It won’t be easy, but it’ll be so worth it in the end. You deserve to feel okay, and to be listened to. You aren’t alone in your struggles, even if you feel that way. There are people out there to support you.