Off The Record: Free confidential counselling and support for young people 11-25

Off The Record relieves and prevents suffering of young people aged 11-25 across Portsmouth Havant & Southern East Hampshire, through access to FREE and CONFIDENTIAL counselling, information, crisis support, educational and preventative services; befriending and opportunities for self development. Services are delivered by highly trained, accredited and award-winning volunteer support workers and counsellors. Patrons are Katy Sexton & Sally Taylor. We are "You're Welcome" young-person endorsed

Why the community needs this charity

Excellent, established local reputation, with 7,000+ contacts each year, working across Portsmouth City, Havant Borough & southern East Hampshire. We are trusted, free, non-judgemental, confidential. No-one is turned away. Need is evidenced by high levels of service use and self-referrals plus signposting from GPs, mental health teams, schools. Service operates at times to suit clients. Off The Record is well researched & understands needs & issues of local communities & local young people.

Results and outcomes

Many young people present with seriously troubled minds. They gain confidence, develop coping strategies and are better able to make positive life choices. Proven outcomes show: improved family life, self-awareness, relationships, study; addressing addiction/health issues; access to specialist support if needed. All clients assessed before during and after service; thorough database of outcomes maintained. Our volunteer counsellors/support teams also report high levels satisfaction & commitment

Latest activities and projects

The Safe Place

Provision of free, confidential 1-1 counselling and support servivces to young people aged 11-25 by highly trained and accredited local volunteers. Project supports vulnerable, disadvantaged young people to address issues including relationship problems, lack of confidence, depression, anxiety, risky sexual behaviour, drink & drug abuse and anger management. Project enables young people to regain confidence, self-esteem and deal with emotional and critical issues in a positive and safe way. read more

Havant Young Carer support group

We provide both therapeutic group and individual support using counselling for personal support and range of discussion, group therapy and social (non-therapy) sessions in supporting young carers; link with other agencies, and provide first-hand advice and contact when difficulty arises. read more