How a South Shields anti-bullying campaigner is helping young people look after their mental health

The award-winning South Tyneside Against Bullying (STAB), founded by then 14-year-old Callum Carr in 2013, has announced additional support services to help people look after their mental health amid the outbreak.

Callum announced on the charity’s Facebook page a new Covid-19 online support centre to give people information about mental wellbeing and tips for how to stay connected with loved ones.

The group will also be offering a daily telephone service to check in with those who are vulnerable and help them seek further support if needed.

A new initiative called Mental Health Mondays sees activities such as cookery classes and fitness workouts, streamed live on their Facebook page which people can get involved in at home to help boost their mental wellbeing.

Callum said the charity recognised that now more than ever it’s important to help people look after their mental health.

He commented: "We want to support our community as much as possible and hope our online crisis centre and our digital presence and interaction will help in some way.

“Like every other community group we have made difficult and cost-saving decisions over recent weeks and as a result we are happy to say we have a small amount of funds we want to contribute towards this crisis.

“We will be donating to other local groups such as food banks and support networks who are providing emergency care to those with mental health issues."

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The charity has previously provided counselling, support and education to children and young people across the North East.

Former Pride of South Tyneside winner Callum is also known for his work around internet safety and social media.

He added: “We're all going digital to keep connected with our loved ones, so I want to make sure our young people and adults are connecting safely as possible. I’m committed to holding live sessions with internet safety experts on our Facebook page and to let parents, grandparents or young people know how to stay safe online.”

Visit SouthTynesideAgainstBullying.co.uk or visit the Facebook page for information and support.

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