Big Mental Health Conversation 2025
16 October 2025
On Friday 10 October, in recognition of World Mental Health Day, over 170 young people from 20 secondary schools across Kent came together for the annual Big Mental Health Conversation.
Hosted by the KCC i-THRIVE and Participation Team, the event offered a programme of interactive workshops designed to promote wellbeing and encourage open conversations around mental health. Sessions included Neurodiverse and Proud led by the Dynamic Support Service, a relaxing Wellbeing Walk and Craft Workshop delivered by Kent County Parks, inclusive sports like Boccia led by students from the Valance School, Food and Feelings with NELFT, and Real Talk by Salus, supporting young people to explore healthy relationships.
Young people explored a vibrant marketplace featuring 35 local services which provide support to young people across Kent. They discovered information about available support, shared feedback on services and took part in a variety of fun activities - from Duck Bingo and a selfie station to crafts and even meeting exotic animals!
The event was hosted by the Kent Youth Voice Young leaders, who also put together a short video of their highlights from the day, which you can watch on YouTube.