This year's event, held ahead of World Mental Health Day on 10 October, was themed "Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change" and focused on ensuring young people's voices are at the centre of discussions about mental health and the services that support them.
Alya Kakay, Chair of Kent Youth County Council and elected member of the UK Youth Parliament, spoke about the importance of the event.
"It means that young people finally get a seat at the table about things that directly affect them and the services that they receive. I think that it's really important that we have these types of conversations as there's a massive stigma around mental health, especially in schools."
Held at the Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel, the event brought together students from mainstream schools, special schools and Alternative Curriculum Provisions. It is organised by Kent County Council's i-THRIVE and Participation Team and funded by NHS Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board (ICB).
The marketplace at the event which had over 30 stalls offering advice and support to young people
Throughout the day, young people took part in interactive workshops focused on understanding emotions, improving mental wellbeing through physical activity, building healthy relationships and learning more about their rights within mental health services. Through games, discussions, drama and outdoor activities, attendees were encouraged to explore practical ways to support their wellbeing while developing the confidence to have their voices heard.
A busy marketplace featured information, advice and activities from 30 organisations including Place2Be, We Are With You, Kooth, and the Young Lives Foundation. Young people were able to speak directly with professionals, ask questions and discover resources to support their mental wellbeing.
Young people were able to hold snakes in the marketplace, which are used as part of reptile-assisted therapy
One of the most popular attractions was the stand hosted by Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust. As part of their therapeutic work with children and young people at Kent and Medway Adolescent Hospital, the Trust offers reptile-assisted therapy. Young people had the opportunity to safely meet and handle snakes while learning about the calming and confidence-building benefits that interaction with animals can provide.
A dedicated quiet area was also available throughout the day, giving young people a space to relax and take time out whenever they needed it. Therapy dogs were also on hand, giving young people another opportunity to recharge and experience the positive impact animals can have on wellbeing.
“By giving young people a genuine voice in decisions about their wellbeing, we can help them feel more in control, build their confidence, and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives.”
Councillor Paul Webb, Kent County Council's Cabinet Member for Integrated Children's Services, said:
"Life can be tough at times, and young people today face all sorts of pressures. It's important they know support is there when they need it, but it's equally important that they build the confidence and resilience to deal with challenges, overcome setbacks and make informed choices about their own wellbeing.
"Building resilience doesn't mean facing problems alone. It means learning how to cope with setbacks, knowing where to find support, and having the confidence to ask for help when it's needed. By giving young people a genuine voice in decisions about their wellbeing, we can help them feel more in control, build their confidence, and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives."
The Big Mental Health Conversation is part of Kent County Council's ongoing commitment to ensuring children and young people have a voice in shaping the services and support that affect their lives.
You can watch a video of the day here: Young people come together for the Big Mental Health Conversation 2026 in Kent
