A Seat at the Table: My Journey to Advocating for Youth Mental Health by Lottie Leach

My name is Lottie Leach, and I am honoured to serve as an advisor for Well Windsor. As an award-winning mental health advocate, my passion for change stems from a deeply personal journey—one that, despite its challenges, has led me to a place where I can use my voice to create meaningful impact.

My story is one of many. Gratefully, I have survived, but for thousands of young people in the UK, that is not the case. So, this is not just a story of survival—it is a call for change.

Between the ages of 15 and 17, I attempted to take my own life multiple times, eventually leading to a stay in an inpatient psychiatric unit. During this time, I experienced stigma, isolation, and a sense of hopelessness, both in my school life and within my community. The support I needed arrived too late.

Reflecting on my experience, I came to a painful yet powerful realisation: there was a profound lack of conversation, support, and action in schools and communities to address the growing crisis of youth mental health. Determined to make a difference, I set out to spark change.

On September 19th, 2018, I took a step towards that change by fully participating in a 24-hour Danceathon at my school, raising funds for the incredible charity ‘Mind.’ That moment ignited something bigger than I could have imagined. Over the following months, I witnessed a transformation—people were beginning to talk, to listen, and to take action. And I was part of it.

From that pivotal moment, I have continued to engage with schools, start conversations, and drive action across the South East, which ultimately led to me being a recipient of the Diana Legacy Award 2020.

For the first time, a young person had a seat at the table to discuss the environment in which young people are suffering. For the first time, a young voice was being heard, and action was following.

Now, I am privileged to take my place at the table with Well Windsor as a youth advocate and advisor. In this role, I bring my lived experience and my unwavering dedication to shaping strategic decisions that will create the greatest impact for young people in Windsor. My ultimate goal is to help build lasting changes that empower young people, strengthen their resilience, and cultivate a supportive community where they can truly thrive.

Providing young people with the support I once lacked is my driving force.

I am continuously inspired by Well Windsor’s approach to tackling this growing issue through a community-first strategy. While many initiatives focus solely on schools, Well Windsor recognises the power of the entire community. By involving families, businesses, and local leaders, we create an all-encompassing support network for our young people. This shared responsibility ensures that we do not just respond to the crisis—we prevent it.

Every child deserves the opportunity to be supported. Every child deserves the chance to thrive.  And together, as a community, we can make that a reality.