Every year, almost 46,000 children between the ages of 10 and 19 end their own lives – about 1 every 11 minutes. (UNICEF 2021)
About Project Iris
Project Iris is a suicide prevention programme designed specifically for young people aged 11-25 who are experiencing loneliness, isolation, suicidal thoughts, ideation, or self-harm. Through a carefully structured 6-week course, we combine educational elements with green therapies to provide whole-person mental health support in a safe, judgement-free environment.
Launched in 2024, as one of just 79 charities nationally selected to receive part of the £10 million government funding initiative, we’re committed to making a lasting difference in young people’s lives.
With suicide rates among young people the highest they’ve been for 30 years* we’re helping to provide the support that’s so desperately needed, when they need it most.
Who we support
Project Iris is designed for young people aged 11-25 who:
- Engage in self-harming behaviours
- Feel overwhelmed by mental health challenges
- Need a safe space to explore difficult thoughts and feelings
- Those experiencing loneliness and isolation
We welcome referrals from schools, colleges, support services, youth organisations, and charities supporting young people.
Our Approach
Project Iris takes a whole-person approach to mental health support through:
“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
Safe spaces for open conversations
We create environments where young people can discuss difficult topics without fear of judgement or stigma. Breaking the silence around suicide is our first step toward prevention.
Peer ambassador support
Our programme is guided by peer ambassadors, many with lived experience, who can relate to participants’ struggles and serve as positive role models for recovery and growth.
Green therapy takes root
Each session incorporates therapeutic horticultural activities that promote well-being, mindfulness, and connection with nature. Research shows that green therapies can significantly reduce stress and anxiety.**
Practical strategies and safety planning
Participants learn effective coping mechanisms and develop personalised safety plans to manage difficult thoughts and feelings.
Watch...
Growing Hope
Watch our animation that tells you more about Project Iris and how the programme can help.
Changing Communities
Project Iris creates wider community change that extends far beyond individual participants. We share our programme materials and resources with schools, colleges, and community groups, while providing specialised training for those professionals working with young people. When we start having open conversations about mental health, we’re reducing stigma and building understanding. These efforts create lasting networks of support that will continue to benefit communities long after our programme ends.
How to Access the Service
How to Access the Service
Project Iris launched in April 2024 and is accepting applications from:
- Schools and colleges
- Mental health support services
- Youth organisations
- Charities supporting young people
For more information or to request an application form, please contact our team at: Email: projectIris@inclusioneducation.org.uk
For Employers
If you or someone you know needs immediate support:
- Samaritans:
Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) - CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably):
Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm-midnight) - Papyrus HOPELINEUK:
Call 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 (9am-midnight) - Childline:
Call 0800 1111 (24/7) - NHS Mental Health Crisis Line:
Call 111, option 2
Who can refer?
Project Iris is open to 11 – 25 year olds who are experiencing loneliness and isolation, feelings of hopelessness, suicidal ideation or thoughts, self-harm or suicidal attempts.
Referrals can be made by schools, colleges, community groups, charities and mental health and other services (as long as permission to refer has been granted by the young person/ parent/carer). Young people can also self refer.
To refer please complete and submit an application form to us at projectiris@inclusioneducation.org.uk and use the QR code to submit form online
