Free online mental health service for young people

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

The Government of Jersey has commissioned Kooth (a digital service accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and currently available across three quarters of the UK and within the Isle of Man) to provide the scheme, which is open to all Islanders aged between 13 and 25 and overseas Jersey students, on or off Island, without the need for a referral. 

The 14-month pilot scheme complements the free independent one-to-one youth counselling services currently offered through YES (Youth Enquiry Service) for ages 14-25 and through school and college counselling. The pilot is part of the Government’s pledge to Put Children First, specifically by ensuring that young people get the early support they need when they need it to prevent issues from escalating, especially during the pandemic when face to face services have reduced.

Kooth, provides a safe, moderated and non-judgmental place for young people to talk, connect and chat with others and know they are not alone. The service offers drop-in or bookable sessions with professional counsellors between 12pm and 10pm on weekdays and between 6pm and 10pm 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.

The Minister for Education, Senator 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.”

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.”

Young people can access Kooth by visiting www.kooth.com  and selecting ‘Jersey Kooth’ during the sign up process.