Shine Learning and Training CIC, or Shine, is a not-for-profit working with disadvantaged young people (aged 11-16 years old) in Luton, Bedfordshire to recognise their true potential within education. Founded in 2018, Shine takes a holistic and therapeutic approach to education using mentoring and intervention programmes. Shine develops participatory and co-productive ways of working with young people to promote leadership skills and empowerment. By moving away from a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, the organisation is breaking down individual barriers to learning, and promoting long-term and lasting change. 

In 2022, Shine received funding from the Bedfordshire Community Foundation to run a new programme called ‘Peer Mental Health Ambassadors’ for 18 months. The Programme was developed in response to the youth mental crisis we are facing, specifically targeting the inconsistencies found in the quality of mental health education in schools across Luton.

From October 2022, students were selected to receive specialised training to enable them to support their peers with mental health issues and challenges. The project is being delivered in partnership with Total Wellbeing Luton and Turning Point, and aims to provide early intervention mental health support to young people, as well as reducing stigma around mental health issues.