More GEMs needed as referral numbers into youth mental health service double
GEMs are committed supporters that give every month (GEM) and as referral numbers into local children’s mental health charity - Kids Inspire – double, more GEMs are invited to support the growing need for services.
Currently, the Essex-based charity that supports children, young people and their families with trauma resolution and mental health issues, has just 20 GEMs! A small number, yet each one a lifeline to vulnerable service users with complex emotional needs.
Severe anxiety is presenting in most children and young people being referred into Kids Inspire and during these uncertain times referral numbers into the service have doubled from 19 over a year ago to an average of 40 per week now.
As the pandemic has advanced, so have the needs of children and young people requesting help.
Hayley’s 12-year-old son became distressed and frightened resulting in extreme anxiety and a refusal to leave the house for months on end, she said:
“As a parent you have motherly instincts, but it was an overwhelming situation, I was at breaking point myself, which is why I reached out.”
Distress, mental health and trauma resolution services continue to help children, young people, and their families to heal and recover from both emerging and complex needs, that previously existed or have been triggered by the pandemic.
Paula Ashfield, Head of Fundraising and Communications, said:
“With the forecast predicting a long-term impact on mental wellbeing, and with ‘one size of Mental Health service’ not befitting for all, we are asking supporters to commit further to helping young people in their community. One way they can do this is by becoming a Kids Inspire GEM and give every month. Monthly donors offer stability and security to a charity, both which help immeasurably during uncertain times.”
Be a GEM and help children discover the treasure within, sign up here
Our Impact
Some of the ways we made an impact.
Volunteer
Our award-winning volunteers help us to achieve so much.
Freddie’s Story
Hear how we supported Freddie in online art therapy.