Mental health is high on the Government’s agenda but one local counselling service for vulnerable young people is in danger of closing in March 2019 unless additional funding is found. 

Sue Cross, head of Intensive Support at Adviza, the charity delivering Time to Talk Bucks, describes the vital work this service provides and the appeal to keep it alive.

She said: “For over ten years, Time to Talk Bucks has offered a lifeline to thousands of local young people. Last year our volunteer counsellors provided a confidential and safe space for over 1,000 11-19 year olds to explore their concerns including stress, depression, bullying, self-harm and abuse. 

“Gaining support at the right time is essential for a young person’s wellbeing. Comments like this from a young client are typical: 'It really helped me to become a stronger person and gave me ways to help cope when I am anxious or start to feel panicky.'

"There is a shortage of counselling provision in Bucks and a growing number of vulnerable young people requiring it. We have a long waiting list, which is now closed to new referrals. 

“This is a huge concern as, since January, our counsellors have seen a large increase in the number of young people having suicidal thoughts and have dealt with attempted suicides from those as young as 12.

"Understandably calls from concerned and exhausted parents are rising. 
Buckinghamshire County Council has done all it can to maintain the service but due to budget constraints their funding stops at the end of March 2019. 

“The service has secured further temporary funding from CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) which we are very grateful for, but much more is needed for the service to continue post March 2019.

"Adviza is committed to keeping Time to Talk Bucks going: reducing delivery costs by 50 per cent, applying to funders and running fundraising activities.

By donating just £10 to our Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge on Saturday 15th September, you can provide a counselling session for a young person.

Visit https://localgiving.org/appeal/advizathreepeaks/ for more.