St Albans MP Daisy Cooper joined children’s arts and crafts group Doodlebugs to talk all things mental health with its founders.

Doodlebugs was built by volunteers Mandi Webster and Lenya Lambrou, with the aim of nurturing creativity, building confidence, and fostering a positive mindset.

Mandi and Lenya run daily after-school sessions, as well as half-term clubs, at London Colney Baptist Church Hall on a voluntary basis.

Daisy Cooper said: “It was a pleasure to visit Doodlebugs and see the fantastic work that Lenya and Mandi are doing with young people in their community.

"They are making a real difference, prioritising mental health, creating safe spaces to talk, and encouraging expression through art.”

One parent said of the group: “It’s a perfect environment for kids without the pressures of technology (which is plentiful these days).

"My son absolutely loved it, made new friends, and Mandi and Lenya are amazing."

Both Mandi and Lenya stress the importance of creative expression and a positive mindset as tools for mental wellbeing, and are open to receiving support in the form of exposure, volunteers for their 'walking bus' programme, financial assistance, support, advice and business mentoring.

After a successful Halloween half-term club, the Doodlebugs team are looking forward to planning a ‘sparkling Christmas Club.’

Anyone interested can contact Doodlebugs on info@doodlebugsartsandcrafts.co.uk.