Taylor Glendinning

While struggling with mental health issues of her own, 16-year-old Taylor Glendinning has gone out of her way to help others. 
During her first year of GCSEs, aged 15 in Year 10, Taylor was struggling to attend school. Describing her mental health, she said it ‘went out like a lightbulb’. 
Through perseverance, family support, and the help of Guernsey’s mental health services, Taylor was able to get back up on her feet. 
Despite having just a few months prior been unable to attend lessons, going into Year 11 Taylor was determined to help others. She became mental health and wellbeing prefect, then started and ran a weekly mental health support group called Talk About It. 
The group regularly had more than 10 children attending, and in this time they would eat, colour and discuss their issues. Even on days when she was feeling down herself, Taylor still made sure it went ahead, knowing how important it is to talk to others during tough times. 
Learning from her own experience, Taylor was able to identify those in need in the group. She notified teachers, and provided necessary support to navigate difficult times. Although having left school now, Taylor continues her work, mentoring a younger girl who has experienced similar problems. 
Her nominator ‘couldn’t be prouder’, and although Taylor’s journey has been difficult, her impact has been widely felt and story inspiring to those around her.