Support for Children and Young People
As Mental Health Awareness Week comes to a close, we want to share some resources for children and young people who may need support. Whether you're a parent, carer, or simply someone who wants to help, knowing where to turn can make a big difference. If you're worried about a child’s wellbeing, starting a conversation and reaching out to their school can be an important first step. Below, you'll find websites and services that offer information and support and promote wellbeing and mindfulness. Let’s keep the conversation going—mental health matters every week of the year.
Under 5’s
Health Visitors – A key point of contact for early support, advice, and referrals for concerns around development and wellbeing.
1st Place Family Hub – Our play sessions promote healthy development, socialising and wellbeing from a young age. Find your nearest Family Hub/Children Centre.
BBC Tiny Happy People – Free activities and tips to support speech, language, and emotional development through play.
Mindful Parenting Techniques – Simple breathing games, gentle yoga, and calming routines can help young children learn to self-regulate.
Ages 5–11
Place2Be – Offers school-based mental health support and resources for parents and carers.
BBC Bitesize Wellbeing – Age-appropriate videos and activities to help children understand feelings and manage emotions.
Smiling Mind – A free mindfulness app with guided meditations for children.
Kooth – An anonymous, online platform offering mental health support, articles, and one-to-one chats with professionals for young people. (for ages 10 - 25)
Ages 11 - 25
Drop-in Coffee Afternoon at 1st Place – Young people (11-18 years) are welcome to attend alone, with a friend or with a trusted adult (up to age 25 for SEN).
Kooth – An anonymous, online platform offering mental health support, articles, and one-to-one chats with professionals for young people. (for ages 10 - 25)
The Nest Southwark – A local service offering free mental wellbeing advice and activities for 11–25-year-olds.
YoungMinds offers mental health support and advice for young people and their families.
The Mix – Free support for under-25s covering mental health, relationships, and more, including a crisis text line.
Headspace – Offers guided meditations and mindfulness exercises. (Student Plan available)
You can also find lots of services and resources for all ages on the NHS Website.
Parents and carers play a key role in supporting their child’s wellbeing. Simple daily habits like encouraging mindfulness, promoting open and healthy communication, setting balanced screen time limits, and spending time outdoors can have a big impact. Creating a calm, connected home environment helps children build resilience and feel supported as they grow.