Project Iris – Growing Hope 

March 2024 

 New service from Inclusion!

Inclusion Education have been awarded government funding towards a new suicide prevention programme.

Inclusion were one of 79 charities nationally to receive part of the £10million government funding.

The programme, Project Iris, will offer help and support to young people from 11- 25 experiencing suicidal ideation, thoughts or self-harm with a 6 week course that combines learning with green therapies.

Our Founder and CEO Cheryl Edwards said, ‘For many of us suicide is a topic still shrouded in stigma, trauma or shame – making it incredibly difficult to discuss in families, schools and the community, especially with training and specialist support not always available. Unfortunately, our inability to speak openly about these issues can sometimes exacerbate the situation.  We want to change that. 

Project Iris works with young people to better understand their thoughts and feelings, allowing them a safe, judgment free space to explore whilst providing strategies and plans to support their mental health. Each session combines learning elements with green therapies such as horticulture as well as support from our Peer Ambassadors, many with lived experience themselves.’ 

The programme will also attempt to have a wider reach than the young people who take part in the project, offering the programme packs and resources to schools, colleges and community groups in the area.

‘We want Project Iris to really have lasting impact. Every young person involved in the programme will be able to talk more openly about these topics, helping them to support others in their own community. Every year over 200 teenagers are lost to suicide in this country – it is vital that we change this.’  

Minister for Mental Health Maria Caulfield said: 

Every suicide is a tragedy which leaves a terrible mark on the families and communities affected.

Non-profit organisations play a hugely important role in supporting people with their mental health and preventing suicide in England.

This new funding will support people who need it the most and build on the brilliant work happening across the country on suicide prevention.’ 

Project Iris will be launched in April – with applications being taken from schools, college, support services, youth organisations and charities supporting young people.

If you would like to know more or request an application form then please contact the team at ProjectIris@inclusioneducation.org.uk