Northampton Saints Foundation chief gives evidence to MPs on children's mental health crisis

The chief executive of Northampton Saints Foundation has taken the concerns of young people to Parliament after being invited to give evidence to MPs investigating children's mental health.

Jordan Letts represented the Northampton charity at Westminster, joining a panel of experts contributing to a joint inquiry by the Education Select Committee and Health and Social Care Committee.

The inquiry is examining issues surrounding children and young people's mental health, with the Foundation using the opportunity to share its experiences of supporting young people facing difficulties.

During the session, Jordan highlighted the challenges encountered by young people and the importance of providing support before problems become more serious.

The Foundation also emphasised the role of trusted relationships and community-based organisations in reaching those who might otherwise miss out on the help they need.

According to the charity, early intervention can make a significant difference to young people's lives, particularly when support is available at the right time.

The appearance also provided an opportunity to raise concerns about the need for greater recognition and sustained investment in services supporting children's mental health.

The Foundation called for long-term funding to help organisations continue working with vulnerable young people and communities.

In a statement following the parliamentary appearance, Northampton Saints Foundation said it was proud to have been represented in the national discussion.

The charity said: "We see first-hand the increasing challenges young people face, and we know that with the right support, at the right time, we can make a real difference."

It added that having the experiences of its staff and the voices of young people represented at Westminster was an important opportunity.

The Foundation also praised Jordan for representing its team and the communities it supports.

The charity works with young people in Northamptonshire and has experience of the difficulties some face in accessing appropriate help.

Its contribution to the inquiry was intended to demonstrate how organisations working directly with young people can help inform decisions about future mental health support.

The Foundation hopes its evidence will contribute to discussions about how services can better identify and respond to emerging problems.

The Westminster appearance has also given the Northampton organisation an opportunity to highlight its work nationally and draw attention to the importance of supporting young people through difficult circumstances.