Free online mental health service for young people launched

Saturday 02 January 2021

A scheme intending to provide young people in Jersey with free, safe and anonymous online mental health and wellbeing advice and support has been launched.

The Government of Jersey has commissioned Kooth, a digital service accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, to provide it.

The scheme is open to all Islanders aged between 13 and 25 and overseas Jersey students, on or off-Island, without the need for a referral, and is intended to provide a safe, moderated and non-judgmental place for young people to talk, connect and chat with others and know they are not alone. 

Pictured: The Kooth website which offers free, safe and anonymous online mental health and wellbeing advice and support.

The 14-month pilot scheme complements the free independent one-to-one youth counselling services currently offered through the Youth Enquiry Service) for ages 14-25 and through school and college counselling. 

Kooth offers drop-in or bookable sessions with professional counsellors between 12:00 and 22:00 on weekdays and between 18:00 and 22:00 on weekends. 

Young people also have instant access to self-help materials, live moderated discussion forums and tools such as online journals and goal trackers.

Education Minister Tracey Vallois said: “I’m delighted that this pilot project has been launched as it increases the mental health support choices available for young people in the Island.

“The Kooth online counselling and support scheme shows that the Government remains committed to putting Jersey’s children first as looking after the mental health and wellbeing of our young people is a key part of the pledge.”

Pictured: Senator Tracey Vallois says the scheme highlights the Government's commitment to putting Jersey's children first.

Dr Lynne Green, Chief Clinical Officer at Kooth, added: “We’re delighted to see that 13 to 25-year-olds in Jersey will now be able to benefit from Kooth’s services. It’s never been more important to offer safe and confidential help for those struggling with their emotional health and wellbeing.  

“Young people can easily log on to Kooth, which has no waiting lists and no thresholds to meet to gain instant access to support. We look forward to supporting young people in Jersey with their mental health and encourage all young people to seek help on Kooth.”