Streetwise 2000

Streetwise 2000 is a Charity committed to improving the emotional well-being and mental health of young people who reside in and around the borough of Bury. Streetwise 2000 was established in May 1999 after young-person led research concluded a lack of localised support for young people affected by mental health problems. The research indicated that young people did not want the ‘stigma’ of having a mental health problem, services didn't tailor to their needs, and statutory services did not provide adequate support provision for young people transitioning into adulthood. With input from the local community and through engagement with young people, Streetwise 2000 was created to re-address the in-balance of mental health service provision for 16 to 25 year olds across Bury. Streetwise 2000 started off offering a one-day per week drop-in for vulnerable young people across Bury, where they accessed computer equipment, music therapy and support and guidance in a safe environment. It wasn't long before word-spread, and fairly quickly, the demand for the service increased. Streetwise began offering one-to-one support from qualified staff and volunteers over 5-days a week, helping young people to manage their mental health or disability independently. Young people were involved from the very beginning, even down to designing the first ever Streetwise referral forms, co-facilitating group work sessions and sitting on the board of Trustees to help make strategic decisions about the future of Streetwise 2000. They offer support to young people aged between fourteen and twenty five who may be experiencing a diverse range of health and social problems, by offering a variety of one-to-one approaches, group work, talking therapies, counselling, cognitive-behavioural therapy and peer-led support programmes. Mission Streetwise 2000 helps, supports and educates young people through the transition from adolescence to adulthood. They provide them the tools to live meaningful and independent lives, empowering them to achieve their fullest potential and grow to be active members of their communities