Free advice and support for young people starting university or work

Free confidential advice and support is available to young people starting university or entering the workforce for the first time at www.Kooth.com.

Kooth.com, commissioned by NHS Stockport Clinical Commissioning Group, is a digital platform which provides a safe and anonymous way for young people to access digital support, self-care resources, information and peer support.

It’s quick and easy to sign up at www.kooth.com. The service is available to all young people, aged between 10 and 18, and can be accessed using a laptop, smartphone or tablet device.

One-on-one, anonymous counselling sessions, with fully trained and qualified counsellors and emotional wellbeing practitioners, are available 365 days a year. Sessions run from 12pm to 10pm on weekdays and from 6pm to 10pm at weekends. These can be booked in advance or accessed via drop-in instant text-based chats.

Kooth offers a wide range of support services including peer-to-peer support communities where young people can connect and engage with others in a safe space. There is an online magazine with clinically moderated articles, personal experiences and tips and an interactive goal tracker.

Dr Cath Munro, Chair of NHS Stockport CCG, said: “Many of our young people are starting exciting steps in their lives by going to university, starting a first job or taking the first steps of an apprenticeship.

“Kooth is a safe space for young people to speak to each other, or with trained mental health professionals, to get the support, advice and reassurance they might need as they enter this important phase of their lives.”

Dr Lynne Green, Chief Clinical Officer at Kooth Plc, added: “Making a major life change such as going to university for the first time or starting a new job is exciting, but daunting.

“We want young people in Stockport to know that they are not alone. Kooth provides a safe and judgement-free space for people to feel listened to and supported with any issue that’s on their mind.”