10,000 Pupils Boosted by School Mental Health Programme
By Mental Health Correspondent
A fast-growing school mental health programme has now supported more than 10,000 children and young peopleacross the North West.
The Hummingbird Project, run by Manchester charity MedEquip4Kids, delivers a free six-week course in schools designed to help pupils build confidence, resilience and practical ways to manage their mental health.
Launched in 2017, the initiative has already reached over 90 schools across Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Lancashire and Merseyside — with demand continuing to rise.
The programme focuses on positive psychology, giving pupils tools to understand their emotions, improve self-esteem and reduce the risk of anxiety and depression.
Its success comes as schools report increasing levels of stress, low mood and emotional challenges among young people, alongside growing pressure on support services.
Independent evaluations carried out with partners including the University of Greater Manchester, University of Chester and the Open University found the programme led to clear improvements in wellbeing and optimism, while also reducing signs of anxiety and depression.
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Each school taking part receives a dedicated “Hummingbird” resource box packed with books, activities and wellbeing tools — helping lessons continue beyond the classroom sessions.
Teachers say the impact has been clear, with pupils showing greater confidence, emotional awareness and ability to cope with challenges.
One pupil said the programme helped them “have more empathy for others”, while another said it made them feel like their “better self”.
Catherine North, Development Manager for the project, said reaching 10,000 pupils is a major milestone — but also highlights the growing need for early support.
“We’re hearing consistently that children are struggling with self-esteem and anxiety,” she said. “Our aim is to give them tools they can use every day before problems escalate.”
The project continues to expand, with new developments including specialist support for children with additional needs and events bringing together education experts to explore preventative mental health care.
The Hummingbird Project is funded through charitable grants and donations, and MedEquip4Kids is now seeking further support to expand its work and ensure more schools can access the programme free of charge.
