Across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, GP practices are offering more ways than ever for people to access the right help from the right professional at the right time. One of the vital new roles supporting this approach is the Young People’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Coach.
As part of the It Takes a Team campaign, NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight are highlighting the range of experts now working alongside GPs, including Young People’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Coaches, a role that is already making a big difference to children and teenagers in our local community.
These coaches support children and young people who may be struggling with their emotional wellbeing, helping them build resilience, confidence and coping strategies. Working closely with GPs, mental health practitioners, and local schools, wellbeing coaches provide early accessible support for issues such as anxiety or low mood. Their role ensures young people receive help before difficulties escalate.
“Many young people are still finding it hard to get back into education and social settings after the pandemic." Says Tig Land, Young People's Mental Health and Wellbeing Coach for the East Hants Primary Care Network. “It’s encouraging that we’re now talking more openly about mental health, and that support is easier to access through GP practices.
“Having Truffle, my therapy dog, alongside me in sessions has been amazing. He helps break the ice and make conversations about mental health feel less daunting. It’s often the small things that help young people open up.”
James Roach, Director of Primary Care and Local Care at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said “Young people’s wellbeing has never been more important and roles like Tig’s show how our GP practices are evolving to meet the changing needs of our communities. The role of a young person’s mental health and wellbeing coach brings a fresh, approachable way of offering support, building trust, confidence, and connection at what can be a challenging time in a young person’s life. It’s a great example of how teamwork in primary care can make a real difference.
As part of the NHS 10-year health plan, there is a strong focus on prevention. Health and wellbeing coaches engage with people to support them in taking an active role in their health, by offering advice and support. They take a holistic approach, helping people to identify challenges across all areas of life and helping them to make lifestyle changes that can lead to happier, more fulfilled lives. These coaches also play a key role in tackling health inequalities.
In March 2025, NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight launched the ‘It Takes a Team’ public information campaign to highlight the different specialists working within GP practices. The 12-month campaign will throw a spotlight on a different specialist role each month and will feature people working within those roles in our local practices. This month we are focussing on our Young People’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Coach.
For more information about the It Takes A Team campaign and the range of support available at your local GP practice, visit: It Takes A Team :: NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight