Local Youth Support Service Receives Vital Funding Boost
By Jill Dando News
In a significant development for youth mental health services in North Somerset, Wellspring has secured National Lottery funding to launch an innovative Listening Service aimed at supporting young people aged 11-13 years.
The groundbreaking initiative will provide early intervention support through weekly listening sessions at various Coffee No1 locations across North Somerset, addressing the crucial need for timely mental health support for younger clients.
"When we conducted focus groups with young people in North Somerset, we discovered that they simply want someone trustworthy to talk to—someone who isn't their parent or connected to school," explains Wendy Griffin, Director of Wellspring. "We can now provide this service and hopefully alleviate some of the emotional distress young people often encounter these days."
The program pairs young clients with listening mentors who are currently studying Level 3 counselling skills at Weston College.
These mentors will provide five or more free weekly listening sessions, offering valuable support while gaining practical experience in their field.
Emma Howarth and Helen Papworth, who are spearheading the service's implementation, emphasize the comprehensive preparation involved. All listening mentors undergo thorough DBS checks and receive robust safeguarding training, including specialized instruction in working with young people through Wellspring's in-house training program.
The initiative addresses several key challenges in youth mental health services:
- Reduced waiting times for young people seeking support
- Early intervention to prevent deterioration of mental health
- Professional development opportunities for counseling students
- Accessible locations in local coffee shops
This community-centered approach represents a significant step forward in making mental health support more accessible to young people in North Somerset.
By providing help at the point of need, the service aims to prevent the escalation of mental health challenges that often occur during long waiting periods.
For young people interested in accessing this service, self-referrals are now being accepted, with the first matches between clients and mentors expected to begin soon.
For more information about Wellspring's Listening Service, please contact your local Wellspring office.
