‘Stay Alive’ support service

Funding has been granted for a new support service for young people (aged 5-25) presenting vulnerable to suicidal thoughts or self-harming actions

However, even with substantial funding from Postcode Community Trust and Futures for Kids, additional funds will help to increase the reach following a recent significant rise in referrals for this type of service locally.

With suicide the biggest killer of young people in the UK and sadly suicide rates in Essex on the increase, the service will provide one-to-one specialist psychotherapy support for young people.

Sue Bell, Clinical Director and CEO at Kids Inspire, said; “Stay Alive is a carefully considered service to offer psychotherapeutic support to young people presenting vulnerable to suicidal thoughts or self-harming actions. The therapy will be long-term, followed up with mentoring as a step-down support service to protect a sustainable outcome for each young person.

By equipping young people with the tools to self-manage, they will be able to cope independently after support ends.”

Stay Alive, alongside other Kids Inspire services for children’s mental health, will act as a signpost for schools to refer young people to as the government introduces mental health awareness education.

Emma Dawson, Headteacher of Thundersley Primary School, went on to say: “It is a sad fact that the number of children and young people presenting with issues such as anxiety, self-harm and suicidal thoughts is on the increase. Mental health support in education and other services is under mounting pressure due to increased need and less funding.

“This project from Kids Inspire is a welcome addition to the high quality, excellent service they already provide. Kids Inspire is becoming the organisation we turn to first when we have children with complex mental health needs because the support we receive is second to none. I am delighted that Kids Inspire have been granted this funding to do more of what they do so well – help our children who have experienced trauma to recover and lead healthy and purposeful lives.”

The dedicated service has been made possible thanks to the Postcode Community Trust, a grant-giving charity funded entirely by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, who awarded Kids Inspire a grant of £14,300.

Postcode Community Trust is a grant-giving charity funded entirely by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

The Postcode Community Trust is sustained through the generosity of individuals playing the People’s Postcode Lottery

Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “It is troubling that the number of children and young people presenting with poor mental health in Essex is on the increase,  so I am delighted that players of People’s Postcode Lottery have been able to fund this worthwhile project that will provide support and guidance to those who need it most when they are at their most vulnerable.”

Additionally, Futures for Kids – are supplementing the service with £2,860 in funding, enabling the service to be available for even more young people.

Is a charitable foundation that raises funds to support the lives of disadvantaged children and young people around the world.