A Bradford-based charity which equips young people with the skills to build positive mental health has received vital funding from LNER.

Non-profit organisation Step2 works with local secondary schools, delivering pupil-focused workshops which strengthen mental and emotional resilience. Young people learn healthy emotional communication skills and positive coping mechanisms which can be used throughout life. Step2 also supports teachers, parents, school staff and the local community to work together, building a wider culture of positive mental health.

Chloe Love, Service Lead at Step2, said:
"We share skills with young people which empower them to help themselves, both emotionally and mentally. The funding from the LNER Customer and Community Investment Fund means we can reach more young people, teaching them how to cope with life's inevitable challenges. We want young people in Bradford to not just survive, but to thrive and build a better future for themselves and their families, ultimately benefitting Bradford as a whole.”

Gemma Longbottom, Special Educational Needs & Disabilities Coordinator at Titus Salt School in Bradford, said: “We’ve seen firsthand the benefits the Step2 program delivers. Our pupils enjoy their sessions with Chloe, taking part in fun activities which build their mental health skills, helping them to feel emotionally stronger and more able to succeed both at school and in their personal lives.”


Rachael Wilson, Community Investment Manager at LNER, said:
“Young people can experience many challenges which impact their mental health. The pressures of social media, their peers, and societal issues can all have an effect. The work Step2 is doing to empower the next generation, enabling them to build a brighter future for themselves, is incredibly valuable. LNER is proud to support their journey.”

LNER has shared a video of two pupils from Titus Salt School in Bradford talking about the benefits of the Step2 sessions delivered by Chloe. To watch the video click here.