New youth counselling service launches in Torfaen

A new counselling service for children and young people has launched in Torfaen.

Xcelerate Youth has been funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent, and will offer young people access to an experienced, dedicated counsellor free of charge, without having to wait for a doctor’s referral.

The project will work with young people across Torfaen to address common causes of stress, anxiety and depression.

Kathy Jones heads the project and is a registered counsellor with more than 20 years’ experience.

She said: “Over the last 20 years I have seen the demand for counselling services for young people to address issues such as stress, anxiety and depression increase significantly.

“Unfortunately current waiting times mean that there can often be a six to nine month wait before young people can access the services they need, unless they pay privately which many cannot afford to do. I am offering young people in Torfaen a dedicated, supportive counselling service, free of charge, which they can access within days.

“These issues are often the root causes of crime, antisocial behaviour and substance misuse in young people, and by working with young people in a secure, supportive environment we can address these issues together and allow them to overcome barriers and reach their full potential.

“I am grateful to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for supporting this project and I know it can make a real difference in the local area.”

Jeff Cuthbert, Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent said: “This project addresses a real need to provide dedicated counselling support to those young people who urgently need it.

“It will help to support some of the most vulnerable people in our community and by addressing some of the root causes of crime and antisocial behaviour we are also helping to create a safer environment for everyone.”

To make a referral to Xcelerate contact Kathy Jones via kathyjones280264@hotmail.com  or 07935565614.