Sussex’s health programme to bring hope to women

The Looking Forward Project is a University of Sussex-sponsored, NIHR-funded research trial aimed specifically at young women aged 16–25 who are NEET, particularly those in deprived coastal areas of Sussex, Kent & Medway, and East Anglia — a group shown to have worse mental health and social outcomes than NEET young men or their peers in education or work.

The intervention, co-designed by NEET young women and largely run by women with NEET experience, is called HOPEFUL. Through six "hope-focused" psychosocial modules it helps participants explore self-identity and understand hope, values and goal-setting. They nominate a mentor (such as a relative or coach) and build a "hope network". They receive practical support with basic needs, encouragement to spend time outside the home, and behavioural activation.

The Project is run in partnership with three other universities and NHS/local authority services, working with campuses, charities, GP practices, food banks, and community outreach.