Children in Crisis

Anxiety, helplessness, loneliness, grief, uncertainty - all words which many of us may use to describe the past few months facing COVID-19. These words can also describe the situation that many children and families coping with long-term conditions face daily. The additional pressures of the pandemic have exacerbated the mental health issues of these children and young people, many of whom have compromised immune systems. 

A recent study from Young Minds found that 81% of young people with mental health issues said the pandemic has had a negative impact on their mental health. Our young service users need us now more than ever.

The Power of Art Therapy: Emily’s Story

Emily (aged 16) was recently referred to Teapot Trust through her Oncology team, following mental health struggles as a result of Lymphoma treatment. Her story provides insight into how art therapy can help in times of crisis.

Emily was consumed by thoughts of her cancer relapsing. The pandemic worsened her worry and having to 'shield' only increased her feelings of vulnerability, causing frequent panic attacks. Within a safe space provided by a Teapot Trust art therapist, Emily was able to work through some of her negative thinking and came to accept herself as more than just a patient.

The sessions helped her focus on positive thoughts and sustainable coping strategies for the future and helped her recognise triggers for negative thought cycles. Whilst her moments of emotional struggle are not completely gone, Emily is now aware of the impact they have and how she can change her mindset and behaviour. Emily says that her sessions are a great way to “let everything out”. She feels more relaxed and capable of saying what is on her mind. Emily's mum has seen positive change too:

Be a Champion

Art therapy has the potential to help so many young lives, but providing our services during such a challenging time is increasingly difficult, especially with a decline in funding sources. We face the challenge of raising £29,000 before the end of the Summer, and we are asking if you could please help us ensure that our vital work continues. 

By giving or getting involved, you can make a huge difference when the need is so great. You can donate whatever you can by clicking the 'Donate' button at the top of this page, or if you would like to organise a fundraiser or sponsored event (ideas below) click on the 'Fundraise' button to set up your page. Don't forget to contact our Supporter Engagement Officer, Caitlin, for support and your fundraising pack: [email protected] We have T-shirts, balloons and digital promotional materials to help with your activity.

Fundraising ideas 

We know that social distancing makes it a little more tricky to fundraise, but with a little creativity and support from us we reckon you've got it in you to be a Teapot Trust Champion! Why not organise a themed tea party (virtual or with family and friends - in keeping with government recommendations of course). Think Mad Hatter's tea party, garden tea party, cream tea, strawberry tea, afternoon tea.

Are you more into fitness than tea and cake? Then why not set yourself a challenge and Be a Champion by walking, running or cycling a distance or route of your choice? Even better, rope in a friend or two! 

We have a few other ideas here which might inspire you. Here's the tangible difference you can make as one of our Champions:

Thanks to the generosity and fundraising efforts of our amazing Teapot Trust Champions, our appeal total as at 15 September is below. We can't thank you enough for your support. 

Check out our Giving Pyramid, which shows how your donation or fundraising might help us to reach our goal, so that we can continue to be there for children and their families:

Thank you so much for your support. Please do follow our campaign on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and to get involved email [email protected] We can't wait to hear from you!