The Young Campaigners' Group is a group of young people aged 13-19 with autism who have experience of using mental health services in the UK, and who came together to change the system for other young people with autism like them. They are:

  • Adam, 16
  • Ben, 13
  • Hayley, 15
  • Henry, 15
  • Hollie, 15
  • Kate, 20
  • Ralph, 20
  • Simon, 15


In this section you can find out more about what members of the group have been up to recently, and see articles and films made by the Young Campaigners themselves.

News

No decision about us without us, Young Campaigners tell national conference
In October 2010 we met with CAMHS commissioners and professionals at a national conference to talk about You Need To Know. Two of our Young Campaigners Group, Henry and Hollie, shared their experiences of CAMHS and talked about why they got involved in the campaign.

"In the bad times, people with autism, as well as those who look after them, need to be able to turn to experts at their local hospital," Henry told those attending the workshop.

"CAMHS has the power to change our lives," said Hollie, "and by working with young people and focusing on what works, we can improve this system for young people with autism and make a real difference to their lives."

The commissioners and professionals we met were struck by the sheer determination of Henry and Hollie to make sure other young people with autism and mental health problems don't experience the same lack of support that they have. Delegates were keen to hear more about the Young Campaigners' Charter for CAMHS and how they could involve young people with autism who they support.

Jacob talks to Ruby Wax for BBC documentary
Young Campaigner Jacob Denness has been interviewed by Ruby Wax about what it's like to have autism and why it's so important to reduce stigma surrounding the condition. The film is part of a series for the BBC's mental health awareness campaign, 'Headroom'. Jacob raises awareness of autism and mental health issues through his work with YoungMinds, a national charity committed to improving the mental health and emotional wellbeing of children and young people. Watch Jacob’s interview here.

Hollie writes about You Need To Know launch
Young Campaigner Hollie has written about attending the You Need To Know campaign launch at the House of Commons. "It was a really exciting experience being able to go to Parliament," she says, "but I really enjoyed the fact that MPs and ministers wanted to talk to me, and when I spoke they were really interested." Read more.