29 September 2026
Three of our children and young people’s mental health teams have each been recognised with the prestigious Investing in Children (IiC) Membership Award.
The teams were acknowledged for the positive difference they make to the lives of the children, young people and their families across County Durham.
They work with children and young people experiencing a range of mental health problems, helping them to build confidence, develop coping strategies and improve their emotional wellbeing.
The awards have been presented to three teams:
East Durham mental health support team
South Durham getting help service
Getting help and mental health support teams in North Durham
As part of the assessment process, representatives from Investing in Children spoke directly with young people, families and schools to understand how the teams listen, respond and adapt support to meet individual needs.
This included home visits, school visits and conversations with parents, as well as individual and group discussions with young people.
Comments highlighted how young people are involved in decisions about their care, with appointments tailored around education and other commitments.
“I feel more confident in myself and talking to people now, which I wouldn’t be if it wasn’t for the support I’ve received,” said one young person.
Another explained: “The appointment times clashed with college, so they were arranged on days when I wasn’t at college.”
Parents shared positive feedback about the support and staff members, saying: “She’s been amazing. My son really looks forward to the sessions. He’s a different child and she helps put things into perspective for him.”
Young people supported by the teams described feeling listened to, valued and understood.
“Every time I have my thoughts she doesn’t interrupt me; she listens and doesn’t judge me.”
“This has changed my outlook. It’s given me a much more positive outlook in life and helped me realise everything is only temporary.”
The award also recognised the teams’ work with schools and their commitment to ensuring children and young people’s voices help shape the support they receive.
“I am so proud of the team,” said Claire Houghton, team manager for East Durham. “They have worked so hard to achieve this amazing award.
“We are committed to supporting young people in a way that works for them, listening to their views and adapting our approach to meet their individual needs.”
The recognition highlights our trust’s continued commitment to ensuring young people’s voices are heard and acted upon, helping to deliver compassionate, person-centred care across County Durham.
