This year’s Bristol Balloon Fiesta is partnering with South West youth mental health charity, Love Squared, to bring awareness and support to young people’s mental wellbeing during the festival.
Love Squared will host a vibrant, colourful tent near the balloon launch site at Ashton Court Estate, offering families a creative space for arts and crafts and an opportunity to learn about the charity’s mental health services.
The event, running from August 8 to 10, is expected to draw thousands of visitors eager to witness more than 100 hot air balloons take to the skies.
Essi Pentti, Love Squared’s deputy safeguarding lead, spoke to BBC Radio Bristol about the importance of reducing mental health stigma among youth. “There is so much stigma around talking about mental health, particularly with young people, and we are trying to break down that stigma by having a very visible platform there,” they explained.
Love Squared provides education and mentoring programs to children and young people across Bristol and the South West, working in schools and the wider community.
Pentti highlighted the challenges young people face today, including long waiting lists for mental health services. “We’re trying to help children achieve the best they can and support them with their mental health through mentoring,” Pentti said.
The pressures on young people have intensified, with academic stress, social media, and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic contributing to a significant rise in mental health struggles.
In addition to the interactive tent, Love Squared will host a 250-mile static bike challenge at the festival. Visitors are invited to pedal any distance to contribute towards the total and help raise funds for the charity’s vital services.
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