For Parents & Carers
It is not always easy to know what a child needs, particularly when their behaviour has changed, they are struggling to talk about how they feel or difficulties have been building for some time.
These short guides are intended to give parents and carers clear, practical information.
Does My Child Need
Therapy?
A practical guide to recognising when your child may be struggling and when additional emotional support might be helpful.
My Child Won’t Talk — What Can I Do?
Ideas for understanding why a child may find talking difficult and ways parents can create opportunities for communication without putting pressure on them.
Helping A Child With Anxiety And Worries
Practical information for parents about understanding childhood anxiety, recognising when worries are becoming difficult to manage and supporting a child at home.
When A Child Is Struggling With School
A guide to understanding school anxiety, avoidance and difficulties with attendance, and thinking about what may be behind a child’s experience of school.
Helping Children With Friendships And Confidence
Ideas for understanding friendship difficulties, confidence and self-esteem, and supporting children as they navigate relationships with other children.
Young Voices
Children and young people often have valuable things to say about the experiences that affect them.
Young Voices is a place to share selected contributions from young people themselves, including talks, creative work and other pieces they have chosen to share.
A Young Person’s Perspective On ADHD
In this video, a 15-year-old young person shares her experience and perspective on ADHD as part of a school speech competition.
Her contribution is included here with permission from her parent/carer and school and is shared to recognise her achievement and give space to a young person’s own voice.
Support & Helplines
Free and Trusted Sources Of Information and Support
Therapy is not always the first or only source of support a family may need. The organisations below provide free information, advice and confidential support for children, young people and parents.
Childline
Childline provides free and confidential support for children and young people. They can be contacted on 0800 1111, as well as through online chat and messaging.
YoungMinds
YoungMinds Parents Helpline offers information and advice to parents and carers concerned about a child or young person’s mental health. The free helpline is 0808 802 5544 and operates Monday to Friday.
NSPCC Helpline
NSPCC Helpline supports adults who are worried about the safety or wellbeing of a child. The current helpline number is 0808 800 5000, available Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm.
NHS 111
NHS 111 can provide access to urgent mental health support in England through the mental health option, including support for children and young people experiencing a mental health crisis.
Samaritans
Samaritans provides free emotional support at any time of day or night on 116 123.
Shout
Shout provides free, confidential 24-hour text support in the UK. Text SHOUT to 85258 to start a conversation with a trained volunteer.