A NEW counselling service, is being offered to young people who live in South Gloucestershire.

Young people in South Gloucestershire who suffer from anxiety, depression or obsessive compulsive behaviours can now access a new counselling service which is being piloted in the county.

The service will be offered in Yate, Patchway and Kingswood once a week and is being delivered by Off the Record Bristol, is free and offers confidential access to counselling for 11 to 15year-olds.

The service has been commissioned by NHS South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and South Gloucestershire Council.

Dr Jonathan Hayes, chairman of South Gloucestershire CCG, said: “We are delighted to announce this newly commissioned counselling service for young people.

“The self-referral service is designed for 11 to 15-year-olds who experience anger, anxiety, depression, eating problems, low mood, self-harm or obsessive compulsive behaviours.

“The therapists will also be able to help young people struggling with bullying, education, their identity, relationships and substance misuse.”

As part of the project young people will be offered six weeks of therapy, and in some circumstances, where it is clinically appropriate, an extension to 12 weeks of treatment will be provided.

The counselling sessions take place at The Armadillo in Yate on Wednesdays. Services are also offered at The Park Centre in Kingswood on Mondays and Coniston Community Centre in Patchway every Wednesday.

Dr Simon Newitt, chief executive at the charity Off the Record Bristol, added: “We offer a free, self-referral counselling service and will work with young people whatever condition they present.

“They don’t need a written referral from their GP, they can call, email or text us direct. Alternatively, they can access the service with help from a parent or professional.

"Once we’ve had contact, we will offer an initial appointment with a Youth Support Worker within the week, and, if appropriate, therapy as soon as possible thereafter.”

Dr Kate Mansfield, clinical lead for children and maternity at South Gloucestershire CCG, said: “We are thrilled this valuable new service is now up and running. “We are working hard to develop and improve services for children and young people in South Gloucestershire. Our focus is on early help for young people to give them the best possible start in life.”

To make an appointment or to find out more, call 0808 808 9120, text 07896 880 011, email confidential@otrbristol.org.uk or visit www.otrbristol.org.uk.