An MP has praised students for their support of a mental health project to help young people.

Watford MP Richard Harrington commended pupils from Watford Grammar School for Girls at the second Minds Matter Gala, on September 24.

The gala aims to expand the Mental Health Foundation’s work with children, young people and students.

Watford Girls Grammar was the first to pilot the foundation’s Peer Education Project in the town, which sees the students become the teachers delivering five mental health lessons to all Year Seven pupils, introducing them to the matter.

Mr Harrington said: “We know that 50 per cent of adult mental health problems have started by the age of 14.

“That’s why programmes like this are encouraging as they help young people open up about how they feel and learn that it’s OK to not feel OK.

“The fact that it’s taught by their older peers is important because they are more relatable.

“I’m so proud of the students at Watford Girls Grammar who are paving the way for better mental health support in schools. Their work is hugely impressive.”

Mr Harrington with the Watford Grammar girls