Local teenagers have hit the airwaves to help the Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS tackle mental illness.

NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), which plans and buys health services in the region, joined forces with Rock FM and several high schools to develop its latest mental health campaign.

Pupils from years nine, 10 and 11 gave their own perspectives on mental health and what it means to them in order to develop the campaign aimed specifically at children and young people.

They also wrote and recorded a number of radio adverts encouraging young people to reach out if they’re having problems with their mental health.

Helen Parry, one of NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria ICB’s suicide prevention leads, said: “Supporting young people to better look after their mental health and wellbeing is a priority for us.

“But to reach young people with our campaign, we know we need to work with them to make sure we are hitting the right note.

“For them to have created their own radio adverts is truly fantastic. Because the adverts are in their words and their voices, we are confident they will truly resonate with other young people.”

Four workshops were held throughout October and November at Rock FM’s Preston studios, with pupils from Haslingden High School, Our Lady’s Catholic College in Lancaster, St Mary’s Catholic Academy in Blackpool and Coal Clough Academy in Burnley.

The adverts could be heard daily on Rock FM throughout the whole of November, while the ICB’s campaign will launch in the next few months.

Nathanial Eatwell, designated safeguarding lead at Coal Clough Academy, said: “This has been such a worthwhile and positive experience for our pupils.

"We know our young people are facing pressures at home, at school, and online, which can negatively affect their mental health.

“We are proud to be part of something which is hopefully going to make a real difference to young people across Lancashire and South Cumbria.

"Seeing our pupils make such positive contributions during the workshop has been fantastic and I think it will be a day that they will remember for a long time to come.”

Laura Hughes, account manager at Bauer Media Group, said: “Working with the schools on this project has been a total pleasure and something we are very lucky to be able to do.

“The mental health insights we gain from the pupils is invaluable and enabling them to create their own adverts is inspiring and extremely positive.”

For help and advice in relation to children and young people’s mental health visit www.healthyyoungmindslsc.co.uk.