Alison Graham is a GP partner in Cambridgeshire and a graduate of Newcastle University. She knows from first-hand experience that there is a huge amount of unmet need and a shameful lack of support for young people with mental health problems that is the result of decades of underfunding. As a mother of 3 teens and with over 30 years of clinical experience she has a unique and varied view of the issues from many different perspectives.

As Chair and trustee for Young People’s Counselling Service (YPCS), her aim is to not only ensure young people get high quality counselling when they need it but that they get meaningful early intervention to manage their emotions before they are overwhelmed. She is passionate about engineering systemic change to improve the lives of young people.

"I am privileged to be part of a truly extraordinary team that work incredibly hard. We have grown this charity from a tiny organisation into the impressive high quality and respected employer that it is now in only a few years. I am in the debt of those who share my passion for change, who are frustrated by the years of funding neglect and devote their time, energy and skills to making that a reality. We do not want to see any child turned away when they are in need, and also recognise that families need support too. Together we must ensure that investment into the wellbeing of our young people is a priority because they are our future, and it is our collective responsibility to maximise their potential."