In this episode of Afternoon Tea, we explore accessing help and support, and how understanding mental health shapes trust in policing and professional services. With our hosts/baristas, Lisa, Bella and Krish, we spill the tea on the importance of open communication between young people and professionals, and how trust is built – or broken – through these interactions.

Through an honest and thoughtful conversation, we hear young people’s perspectives alongside reflections on what helps create empathy, understanding, and meaningful support. We explore the barriers that can make it difficult to speak up, and how safe, supportive dialogue can help bridge the gap between young people and those there to protect and support them.

With a focus on real-world impact, we also discuss how professionals – including police and school staff – can respond more sensitively to mental health needs, and what it takes to help women and girls feel safe in their communities, whether out with friends or alone.

🎧 What You’ll Get from This Episode:

• Insight into how mental health awareness and communication shape trust in policing and support services
• Understanding of young people’s experiences and what helps build empathy and connection
• Honest discussion about barriers to speaking up and how to overcome them through supportive conversations
• Reflections on how professionals can respond more sensitively to mental health needs
• Practical ideas for building safer communities where women and girls feel confident and supported

Tune in, grab a cuppa, take a breath, and join the conversation with us on Afternoon Tea.

💡 Whether you’re a young person, parent, or just curious, we welcome you to start your journey with us to get insights, understanding, and tools you can use right away. Afternoon Tea is a podcast dedicated to honest conversations around mental health, wellbeing, and the experiences that shape us.

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of mental health, sexual exploitation, drugs, policing and emotional wellbeing.

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A massive thank you to our funders:

Bedfordshire Police & Crime Commissioner