Recently, our partners from across Calderdale came together for an Open Minds THRIVE workshop. The day centred around the THRIVE Framework - an integrated needs-led model for mental health support - and offered inspiring discussions on how we can work together to improve outcomes for children, young people and families.
What the day featured
Colleagues from various sectors attended the day, including health, education, social care, public health and the voluntary and community sector. We were grateful that so many attended, all bringing different perspectives, energy, and a wealth of individual experience.
Throughout the day, we spoke on our shared understanding of Open Minds, the THRIVE Framework, and what a truly needs-led system looks like in practice. This grounding helped us reconnect with the core principles guiding our work across Calderdale and to reaffirm why a whole-system, needs-led approach is essential for improving children and young people’s mental health.
Together, we took time to explore the user journey, taking an honest look at the challenges people encounter at every stage. From becoming aware of available support to accessing help and receiving ongoing care. These reflections encouraged thoughtful conversations about the real experiences of young people and families, and how we can better design a system that meets them where they are.
Collaboration, reflection and shared insight
Participants from a number of organisations, including Healthy Minds Calderdale, Invictus Wellbeing, Noah’s Ark, South West Yorkshire NHS Partnership Trust, West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) and members of Open Minds, came together in mixed, multidisciplinary groups, drawing on the strengths of different roles and perspectives. These discussions surfaced practical opportunities to improve access, experience, and outcomes - ranging from more consistent communication to clearer pathways and better coordination between services.
Across the day, we connected with wider groups including Calderdale Family Hubs, integrated neighbourhood teams, and the emerging integrated front door. These links highlighted just how interdependent our services are, and how crucial it is to build a cohesive, aligned approach that feels simple and joined up for families.
Moving forward together
What resonated most from the day, was everyone’s commitment to keeping people at the centre of the conversation and to turning shared understanding into meaningful action. It’s this approach that will help us build a more connected, preventative and compassionate system for children and young people in Calderdale.
