Created for young people, by young people from Sussex and Kent, the Stepping Forward podcast spotlights honest conversations, lived experiences and practical advice that aims to make mental health support more accessible, relatable and empowering.
Each episode explores real topics that young people often struggle to talk about openly, offering guidance that comes directly from those who have lived through similar experiences.
A theme of the first series of the podcast is the discharge process - what it's like when preparing for discharge and tips to deal with the - often challenging - transition from hospital care to home.
Podcaster and EbE, Dulcie, said: "I’m so excited for the podcast to be released so that the people who it is really for finally get to listen. We really hope we have filled a huge gap in the mental health system and provided support for young people in a more accessible fashion. We are the ones who went through it, so rightly so, we are the experts, it just makes sense!’
Evie, one of the podcasters of the episode on discharge and an EbE, said: "When you're discharged, don't hide yourself away, the world deserves to see you - and you deserve to see the world."
Another podcaster and EbE, Ella, said: "No journey is linear, and I want people to understand that you CAN overcome setbacks, and you are allowed to have those darker days, because now my life is so much brighter.
"I now know the difference between surviving and thriving, and life is so much bigger than your mental illness."
These episodes are the first in several podcasts' series. Future episodes will include life back at home, how to navigate social media and advice on how to get help when you need it.
While the hosts acknowledge that everyone's experience is unique, they hope that by openly sharing their own stories, they can help make this transition feel less overwhelming for others.
Their reflections offer valuable insight not only to young people, but also to professionals who may rarely hear such honest perspectives from those they support.
Natalie Kinsella, Lived Experience Lead, Provider Collaborative Hampshire, Kent and Sussex CAMHS, said: "I couldn’t be prouder of our EbEs for creating such a powerful podcast. This series is all about closing the gap between young people and the systems that support them. By uplifting lived experience and letting real voices lead the conversation, we’re building understanding, empathy, and true collaboration across mental health services."
The episodes are available to stream on Spotify. Simply search for Stepping Forward Podcast or visit Stepping Forward | Podcast on Spotify
