Lantern initiative shines light on mental health in Peterborough

The Cloud Space project aimed at those aged 13 and older was attended by a number of youngsters who discussed shared experiences and emotions through poetry.

Safura Houghton, co-founder of The Lantern Initiative, said: “The aim of the event was to teach young people about different mediums of expressing oneself, especially at a time when people struggle to find an emotional outlet or safe space.”

Also in attendance was LookMann the Poet who is the poet in residence for Gladstone Street and who spoke to the youngsters about being honest about their feelings and speaking their truths.

Cloud Space was set up as a monthly peer-led support group to provide a safe non-judgemental space young people can access where they can open up if they wish and get things off their chests.

After its success more sessions are being run by The Lantern Initiative including workshops for Muslim women and young people. The group is run by volunteers to create inclusion with faith sensitive frameworks and a culturally sensitive approach to mental health issues within the Muslim community. Those of other faiths, and none, are also invited to attend.