A NEW youth counselling service is being launched in Winchester, helping to plug a gap in provision.

Andover Mind has started the initiative for young people aged 13 to 23 who live in and around Winchester.

The service is free and is funded by Simplyhealth. The charity has been providing a similar service in Andover for two years, also part-funded by Simplyhealth.

Young people’s mental health is a growing problem, with an estimated one in ten children aged five to 16 having a diagnosable condition.

Half of all long term mental problems are established by the age of 14, rising to 75 per cent by 24. Most young people get no support. Even for those that do, the average wait for routine appointments for psychological therapy is months.

The fully trained and qualified counsellors are there to listen and help explore feelings, situations or difficulties. Many people find that talking helps them to see their problems differently so they can change in ways they want to.

Young people can access the counselling service either through their school or directly by calling 07483 155 837.

They can also complete the referral form on the Andover Mind website. Counselling can take place in schools and other community venues, wherever the person feels most comfortable.

Debra Ramchurn, chief executive of Andover Mind, said: “We are looking forward to working with both Winchester schools and young people who come to us directly. We have found through our service in Andover that young people have improved well-being after taking part in a series of counselling sessions”.

She added: “We are especially grateful to Simplyhealth for awarding us a grant to set up this service. This partnership is a great demonstration of how charities and local companies can work together for the good of the community.”

Roger Cotton, head of charitable giving at Simplyhealth, said: “We hope that working with Andover Mind to expand this vital service will mean even more young people are able to receive the timely support they need”.