Support for Children’s Mental Health in Leeds

Leeds Children’s Charity provides safe space for vulnerable children

More than one in four children in Leeds currently live in poverty, according to recent figures. Many of these children face additional challenges such as exposure to domestic abuse, parental mental health issues, or substance misuse, which can significantly affect their well-being and development.

Leeds Children’s Charity (LCC) operates at Lineham Farm on the outskirts of Leeds, offering children experiencing poverty, trauma, or disadvantage a rural environment where they can find safety and support. The charity aims to provide a setting where children can experience stability and care away from the pressures of their daily lives.

A safe environment for recovery and growth

For many children visiting Lineham Farm, it is the first time they have felt truly secure. The provision of basic needs such as a warm bed, nutritious meals, consistent routines, and attentive adults plays a crucial role in their emotional recovery. One child reportedly said, “This is the first night I’ve slept properly.”

Time spent outdoors at the farm also contributes to improving children’s mental health. Research supports the benefits of nature in reducing stress and anxiety and promoting emotional regulation. The farm’s open spaces, animals, and woodland provide a calming atmosphere that helps children relax and reconnect.

Outdoor learning and its impact

Each year, approximately 3,000 children from Leeds participate in LCC’s residential and day visits. These visits include activities such as:

• Climbing and abseiling
• Cycling and trail walking
• Bushcraft and teamwork challenges
• Archery and problem-solving tasks
• Caring for farm animals and exploring nature

Teachers have noted improvements in pupils’ concentration, motivation, communication, behaviour, confidence, teamwork, and resilience following their visits. The farm’s inclusive and sensory-rich environment particularly benefits children with Special Educational Needs, offering them opportunities to succeed through movement and hands-on learning.

Building trust and social skills

Many children who attend Lineham Farm have experienced trauma that makes trusting adults and forming relationships difficult. The charity provides consistent routines and positive role models to help children feel secure enough to open up. Staff have observed significant behavioural improvements, such as increased participation and communication.

Outdoor challenges at the farm also foster teamwork, leadership, and emotional awareness. According to reports, 93% of schools involved have seen improved social skills among pupils as a result of the outdoor learning experiences.

Case example: a child’s renewed aspirations

One child, Chloe, aged 10, who had faced considerable trauma, shared her ambition to become a youth worker during a campfire session at Lineham Farm. This moment was noted as a turning point, with Chloe returning to school more motivated and focused on her goals.

Broader implications for Leeds

Child poverty in Leeds affects not only individual children but also families, schools, social services, healthcare, and the city’s overall future. Lack of stability and support can lead to lower educational attainment and poorer health outcomes, with effects lasting across generations.

Conversely, the support provided by organisations like Leeds Children’s Charity helps children develop confidence, resilience, and motivation, improving their chances of thriving in school and contributing positively to their communities.

Source

Information sourced from Leeds Children’s Charity: Supporting Children’s Mental Health