Counselling and support services

These organisations offer information, support and counselling to young people on various issues affecting their lives. These are links to national resources but you can also have a look in our section named 'Support in my area' to find local services near you.

Please get in touch if there is anything that you'd like to talk through with us here at riprap. Find local support in your area here.

Links updated 20/04/17

ChildLine is a free UK 24 hour counselling service for children and young people, available by phone on 0800 1111 and online. ChildLine deals with any issues which cause distress or concern to children and young people including child abuse, bullying, self harm, substance misuse, parental separation and pregnancy. Their website also provides help, support and advice on a large range of topics which are a concern to children and young people. UK

Youth Access is a national organisation for young people's information, advice, counselling and support services (YIACS). Check out their website to find details of free and confidential counselling, advice or information services locally near you. UK

The Mix offers support for young people under 25 who need help. You can access discussion boards and group chats with peers or speak to advisors through live messages, helpline, telephone counselling or emails. UK

Relate - there are all sorts of reasons why you might want a bit of extra help from Relate. Things might be worrying you at home or at school, or you might need help and advice with your own relationship. This section is for any young person who's having problems. You can also visit Relate's Online emotional support and advice website iRelate. UK

Barnardos is a UK charity that helps the most vulnerable children and young people transform their lives and fulfil their potential. Their webiste has information about young carers and its work with this group of young people. UK

Young Minds has information on mental health issues for young people including depression and self-harm. UK

Samaritans provides confidential support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair. You can get in touch in various ways, including visiting one of their local branches in the UK. Check out their website for details. UK

Kooth - Kooth is an online counselling and emotional well-being platform for children and young people. Their team of counsellors, support workers and therapists are professionally qualified and offer free, safe and anonymous online support for young people. UK

Include Programme - The Children's Society is a national charity working to improve the lives of vulnerable children and young people. Through their 'Include Programme' they reach out to young carers from all communities through, helping voluntary and statutory services supporting young carers. This group includes children and young people who care for parents or siblings who suffer from chronic illness or disability. UK

Dove Service - The Dove Service can provide counselling and support to children & young people over the age of four - and their families - who are struggling with the impact of bereavement, significant loss, or life changing/limiting illness. The service is based at the Dudson Centre in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, but has outreaches across Staffordshire, Cheshire and the Wirral and can deliver services in any location across England and Wales. UK