Supporting Young Women in Plymouth

Insights from Angie, Trevi’s Young Person’s Assertive Outreach Practitioner.

In the UK, young women face increasing challenges, particularly around mental health, trauma and undiagnosed neurodivergence. While many services exist for young people, few offer the long-term, relationship-based approach that these women need to truly thrive. Angie, our Young Person’s Assertive Outreach Practitioner here at Trevi, works closely with this group, providing tailored support that helps them navigate the complex barriers they face.

Mental health issues among young women are increasingly prevalent in the UK. According to Mind, a leading mental health charity, nearly one in four young women in the UK experiences common mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The statistics reveal a concerning trend: around 50% of mental health problems are established by the age of 14, and 75% by the age of 24. This early onset emphasises the need for targeted interventions and support for this age group.

There are many factors contributing to poor mental health, including societal pressure, undiagnosed neurodivergence as well as adverse childhood experiences and trauma.

Childhood trauma can have profound effects on a young person’s emotional and cognitive development, often disrupting their academic progress and social growth. For many of the young women Angie supports, these early traumatic experiences continue to impact their mental health into adulthood. They may face a higher risk of developing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and often struggle to maintain healthy relationships

Mental health services across the country are doing their best to address these needs, but they are often financially stretched and face long waiting lists due to the overwhelming demand for support.

‘Other services have financial constraints—if you don’t engage after three visits, they can’t continue supporting you,’ Angie explains. ‘The scope of our funding allows me to build relationships over time, which is crucial. One woman took six months to meet me in person after we built trust over text and phone calls. It’s that kind of patience and persistence that makes a difference.’

This flexible, relationship-based approach is vital for young women who need professional guidance. Angie’s role includes providing emotional and practical support, helping women with issues ranging from mental health, financial difficulties, and housing, all while giving them the time to build trust and confidence.

In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing mental health issues among young women and highlighted the urgent need for support. Isolation as a result of lockdowns, disrupted education, and a lack of social interaction during formative years have led to increased anxiety and depression among young people. Many young women report feelings of loneliness and social anxiety as they navigate a post-pandemic world.

‘COVID has had a profound impact on socialisation,’ Angie asserts. ‘We can definitely see an impact on young people’s mental health. However, this isn’t new, we’ve always had issues with mental health in young people, but now there is less stigma, and we’re much more aware of mental health.’

As services work diligently to meet the rising demand for support, young women often find themselves in a cycle of escalating need.

‘It’s about intervening to break the cycle,’ she explains. ‘We can help you move forward with your life so you’re not stuck in the past. There is better support out there, and you are worthy of good things.’

Angie works with young women who present as neurodiverse, which includes conditions such as ADHD and autism. Girls and women with these conditions frequently go undiagnosed in childhood because their symptoms do not align with traditional expectations for neurodivergence, which are often based on how boys present. While young boys may display disruptive behaviours, girls are more likely to mask their struggles, leading to misdiagnosis or no diagnosis at all.

‘Some of these young women have been labelled as “difficult” their whole lives,’ Angie says. ‘When they finally get a diagnosis, it’s like a lightbulb moment for them. It gives them an explanation for why they’ve struggled for so long—it’s almost a relief.’

For many, the diagnosis comes later in life, offering clarity on their past struggles. Angie’s work involves helping these women understand their neurodivergence and supporting them in finding ways to cope with challenges that have affected their mental health, self-esteem, and social interactions.

‘When they start understanding that they are neurodiverse, they can begin to shift how they see themselves and stop blaming themselves.’

To help address these issues, Angie facilitates group sessions where young women can meet others who share similar experiences. These groups help combat isolation while offering a space for self-expression and growth. One group, held on Wednesday afternoons at our Sunflower Women’s Centre, is aimed at women who are socially isolated or have been out of social circles for a long time.

‘We keep the groups small, usually 6-8 women, and we do activities like arts and crafts. It’s a quiet, safe space where they can express themselves,’ Angie says. ‘Some of the women are amazing artists, and it’s lovely to see them shine in something that makes them feel valued.’

In addition to the group at Sunflower, Angie also runs a group for young mums at Stanley House, which provides a supportive space for mothers and their babies. The group offers a range of advice and emotional support without pressure, allowing the women to discuss their housing needs, parenting challenges, and emotional well-being.

‘It’s a gentle drop-in where mums can feel heard and get the advice they need,’ Angie notes. ‘A lot of them have family support workers, but enjoy having another person they can go to.’

Angie’s work is collaborative, involving partnerships with various other services in the city to ensure comprehensive care for the young women she supports. This includes working with Harbour and Hamohaze House among others. By collaborating with these services, Angie can offer a holistic approach that covers mental health, housing, and social care needs.

Angie envisions a future where young women can discover their strengths and pursue what they enjoy. ‘It’s about looking at the women individually, finding what they like and enjoy, and giving them a chance to thrive,’ she says. ‘It would be nice for the project to continue, free from the financial restraints that other services face, such as long waiting lists. I want them to feel fully supported.’

The funding Angie has received from the Wates Foundation and Sir Halley Stuart has been instrumental in supporting her work. ‘They’re really invested, not just financially. They take an active interest in how the project is going, which I’m grateful for. Their funding has helped transform the lives of young women and girls, making it really personal for them,’ she explains.

There is still much work to be done to support young women with mental health challenges and neurodivergence in the UK. Through patience, relationship-building, and collaboration with other services, Angie is making a real difference in the lives of women who need long-term, understanding support.

‘It’s about finding your pocket of joy and being yourself without apology,’ Angie emphasises. ‘When these young women discover what they enjoy and what makes them happy, they can begin to thrive. I want them to feel fully supported and know there is something out there for them.’

Angie’s vision for the future is one of empowerment and self-acceptance, where young women can embrace their true selves and navigate their unique journeys with confidence and joy.