By Sharon Coleman | Senior Fundraiser
The biggest news to update you on isn't great I'm afraid - unfortunately after 21 years the Parents Helpline is facing a funding crisis and may need to close if we don't raise additional funds this year. This is happening because the Department for Education which gave a substantial donation every year has indicated that despite us exceeding targets and getting excellent feedback (more below) they intend to withdraw funding. Funding for child and adolescent mental health services have been cut in many areas recently with some services having been withdrawn completely.
As you may be aware the Helpline offers free and confidential support to any adult worried about the mental health or emotional wellbeing of a child or young person under 25 years old. Volunteer advisors and a team of child and adolescent mental health professionals give reassurance, information about mental health problems, and practical advice on how to help your child - including the best way to get further (or better) support where appropriate.
Last year was a milestone for us because we helped over 10,000 callers, far more than ever before. We also commissioned an independent evaluation of the Helpline which gave us confidence that callers are taking on board our advice, making changes and seeing a real improvement as a result. For example,:
“It was amazing, absolutely amazing. The information she gave me, in that short phone call, was more helpful than 10 years of asking people to help.”
“I used the Helpline over 9 years ago and have never forgotten the kind voice during my darkest time. My daughter is now happily married with a career and children due in no small part to the help and support I received on that night.”
Thank you so much for your support of YoungMinds which has been invaluable. I would like to call on you now to see if you have any ideas on ways that we can save the Helpline, or think you can help. Please do let me know. (Just say that it is with regards to the Helpline appeal please when you contact us.)
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