Someone to Talk To
Children’s mental health campaign
Instant and free support
At Little Lives UK, we believe that every child should have access to the support they need without enduring long waits. With waiting times of up to 18 weeks for mental health services, many children are being left without the urgent care they require, putting their well-being at risk.
“In the last year nearly 40,000 children experienced a wait of over 2 years”
Through our “Someone to Talk To” campaign, we aim to tackle this issue by offering free one-to-one counselling sessions to children and young people in schools. Our team of dedicated, qualified counsellors are committed to prioritising children’s mental health, ensuring they get the support they need quickly.
received free therapy sessions
How does it work?
A ‘Someone to Talk To’ counsellor will support any child in crisis, providing interventions to address their mental health needs. We will offer immediate assistance and resources to prevent further escalation and facilitate access to any external support that may be required for the individual child.
Who is it for?
The program is aimed at young people, typically ranging from primary school children to teenagers, who need someone to talk to about their emotional challenges. This includes, but is not limited to:
• Children experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress.
• Young people struggling with social, school, or home-life pressures.
• Those affected by bullying, bereavement, or family issues.
Background
“Someone to Talk To” was established in London in 2019 in response to the rising knife crime affecting the community. As a charity supporting disadvantaged children, we recognised that children’s mental health was being adversely impacted and that accessing counselling support was increasingly difficult for them.
To address this issue, we took proactive steps to support children and young people by providing free counselling services. By collaborating with other organisations, we were able to offer direct counselling support, ensuring that those in need received the assistance they deserved.
A few words from Carlie,
our campaign manager
“Working with adults made me realise how much we need to put more funding support into working with children and young people”
Carlie Marshall
Carlie, an experienced and passionate counsellor, joined our team in 2024. She has a 1st class BA Hons degree in person-centred counselling and also specialises in cognitive behavioural therapy. In a recent interview, Carlie addresses the importance of the campaign’s work and what inspired her to this role. Little Lives UK benefits greatly from her expertise, allowing us to provide professional therapy sessions to children.
Testimonials
Elm Academy, Bournemouth
Little Lives UK Counselling service is dedicated to supporting our school community by providing students with a safe space to express their feelings and concerns. They offer individual sessions helping students develop coping strategies, improve mental health, and enhance their overall well-being. Little Lives UK empower students to navigate challenges and thrive both academically and personally.
Sturminster Newton High School
Feedback from the Sixth Formers was very positive with all 4 students requesting further appointments with Carlie. Having this service in school where students feel supported and listened too and are able to work through some difficult situations with a trusted adult is so valuable and we are so pleased Little Lives UK are supporting us and our students in this way.
Apply for free counselling at your school
Use our online form below
Ways to support ‘Someone to Talk To’
mental health programme
Start a Fundraiser
Donate Old Clothes or Electronics
Donate Funds
Leave a Gift in Your Will
Donate Phone or Tablet
