YMCA NORFOLK

YMCA Norfolk Mental Health Engagement Worker Charlie Smith has presented her work to an international Innovation Camp in Switzerland.

The conference took place at Leysin in Switzerland from September 28 to October 3, attended by volunteers and employees of YMCAs from across the world. Peru, Madagascar, Albania, Serbia, Portugal and France were in attendance, to name a few.

Charlie said: “I was in a group which looked at Health and Wellbeing and what projects were taking place across the world and how we can use learn from each country to improve the provision where we live.”

Charlie gave a presentation to an international audience on her mental health project at YMCA Norfolk which began as a Department of Education funded project to now aiming at self-funding.

“I learnt that mental health is a big concern in many countries and about the difficulties faced in different cultures. It has helped me to become aware of my own achievements and where I could improve the work in Norfolk and assist other countries with developing mental health work in their communities,” said Charlie.

“I have created some brilliant working relationships but also some great friendships with other young people who share the feeling of empowerment to not only share the message of what their local YMCAs do but of the partnerships that can be created with those further afield.”

Pictured top is Charlie Smith presenting at the Innovation Camp and, above, taking in the Alpine scenery.