Are Service Users The Key To Systems Change?

Dr Charlie Alcock, founder of MAC-UK, explains how her organisation is putting mental health support at the heart of solutions for young offenders, delivering integrated services developed and run in collaboration with service users.

One in three young people who offend have an unmet mental health need at the time of offence and serious gang and youth violence is a £4 billion a year concern. Young gang members face a number of barriers in accessing traditional mental health services and the existing provision often lacks the flexibility to evolve with the changing needs of users.

Clinical psychologist Dr Charlie Alcock founded MAC-UK to radically transform mental health service delivery for young offenders. The charity collaborates with other agencies to adapt and improve systems, offering appropriate support and creating opportunities for inclusion and employment.

At this launch event marking MAC UK’s 5th anniversary, Charlie will explain the challenges of sustaining this delivery model as the charity grows. Remaining authentically youth led and adapting to evolving needs of young offenders is vital in finding solutions to the complex revolving door of youth crime.

Response from Dame Clare Tickell, chief executive, Action for Children and Chris Wright, chief executive of Catch22. 

Chair: Matthew Taylor, chief executive, RSA

Founded in 2008, MAC-UK  will be 5 years old on 10th October - World Mental Health Day.