We were proud to join over 150 mental health leaders, clinicians, community partners, and people with lived experience of mental health including young people at the annual South West London Mental Health Conference.

Hosted by NHS South West London Integrated Care System (ICS) and South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust, the event focused on some of the biggest challenges in mental health today - from youth wellbeing and health inclusion to anti-racism and early intervention.

Spotlight on Health Inequalities

One powerful breakout session explored Health Inequalities, with a focus on:

• Inclusive care for rough sleepers
• The Ethnicity and Mental Health Improvement Project (EMHIP)
• Community-based approaches to reducing disparities in care

Our Contribution: Supporting Young People

Geenen, our Senior Manager, delivered a presentation on Addressing Health Inequalities for Children and Young People, highlighting that:

• Young people in South London face higher rates of mental health issues than other regions.
• Access to services is often unequal, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• We shared how our services - including a phone support line, online tools, text-based service, and self-referral options - are designed to help break down these barriers.

Julie, our Practitioner, was also on hand to talk to attendees about our dedicated support service for young refugees, asylum seekers, and forced migrants aged 11–25 through our Refugee Service in Croydon.

Listening to Young Voices

Caroline, our Senior Manager, spoke about youth violence and how our CHRIS service supports young people affected by it offering free, confidential support to young people in Croydon aged 14-25.

Tane, one of our Practitioners, works closely with young people arrested for incidents related to Serious Youth Violence, offering free counselling and wellbeing support. He presented on the Custody Suite project and reminded us why these events matter: “It’s vital we learn from young people, hear their voices, and understand how best to support them. The most important thing is to listen to what they need.”

At Off the Record, We Believe

• Every young person has the right to be valued and respected, no matter who they are.
• They should be empowered to make choices about their lives.
• They have the potential to live vibrant, fulfilling lives.
• Our mission is simple: showing up for young people’s mental health across South West London - whenever and wherever they need us.

We work in partnership with local communities in Croydon, Merton and Sutton to make sure young people get the help they need, when they need it.