The Blues Programme
The Blues Programme gives young people the tools to look after their emotional wellbeing
The Blues Programme is an internationally acclaimed wellbeing programme for young people aged 13-19. Over six weeks, it teaches emotional resilience, and reduces low mood and anxious thoughts. Crucially, it gets teenagers talking.
On average, every classroom in Britain has three children with a diagnosable mental health illness. So far, we’ve delivered The Blues Programme in over 150 schools, to more than 5,500 young people.
- 76% of students say it improved their wellbeing.
- 80% feel comfortable talking about their mental health.
- 98% would recommend Blues to one of their friends.
We’re bringing the programme to schools thanks to Royal Mail, which has provided £2 million raised through employee fundraising and matched giving.
Blues involves a one-hour group session at school each week, plus home tasks. Students learn how to challenge negative thoughts, and talk about different coping strategies.
Regular group work builds rapport and confidence. The home tasks are a chance to practise the new skills. It’s simple, and it works.
Supporting mental health and wellbeing is a big part of what we do. We help young people talk about how they’re feeling, and make sure they don’t feel alone.
Programmes are run by trained Action for Children Blues specialists – we call them the "blues busters". Here's what's involved.
- Eligible school, colleges or sixth forms sign up.
- Students aged 13-19 fill out the Blues survey.
- The survey identifies students who will benefit from the programme.
- The six-week group programme begins (one hour/week).
- After the programme, the programme leader evaluates and share results.
Want to bring The Blues Programme to your school?
