This coordinated effort ensures that while some wait for access to specialist services, they can benefit from meaningful, non-clinical activities and safe spaces that support emotional wellbeing and prevent deterioration into more serious mental health difficulties.
The programme includes a diverse range of initiatives in East Surrey covering Redhill, Reigate, Horley, Merstham and Tandridge.
Highlights include:
- Grief support services for bereaved young people and their families
- Yoga and physical activities designed to engage and energise SEN youth
- Green Prescribing outdoor wellbeing sessions
- Equine-assisted interventions for young people with mental health challenges and not in education
- Wild swimming and fireside social support rooted in Green Social Prescribing
- Holistic self-development and resilience courses that blend physical exercise with mental health learning
The fund has supported programmes that build resilience, reduce isolation, enhance peer connections and foster emotional regulation — all while creating timely interventions that respond to young people's real-world challenges.
Supporting Young People in East Surrey: Funding Delivers Action-Focused Wellbeing Services
Wednesday 13th August
The Mental Health Investment Fund (MHIF) has funded a series of projects designed to provide mental health and wellbeing for young people aged 11–18 across East Surrey.
More details on how to refer and access services will be made available on the VASE website over the coming weeks, with some providers already delivering activities.
Updates will be shared across local networks to ensure young people, families, and professionals can access the right support at the right time.
The MHIF Grant Allocation Panel was coordinated by Voluntary Action Surrey East VASE, with the support of NHS Surrey Heartlands. Grants ranging from £500 to £10,000 were available to organisations and individuals delivering non-clinical activities that support the emotional wellbeing and mental health of young people aged 11–18 years within East Surrey Place.
All funded activities align with one or more of the following strategic priorities:
- Self-Help
- Accessible Signposting
- Timeliness of Support
- Online Safety and Social Media Use
- Parent and Carer Support
- Supporting the Workforce
Applications for funding were assessed by a community panel made up of young people, representatives from Surrey County Council, Reigate and Banstead Borough Council, professionals delivering health services — ensuring funding decisions reflect the voices and needs of the community.
Please note: the fund is now closed.