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Teenage clicks
An award-winning counselling website for
young people is all set to go live in Wigan borough.
Already a hit with hundreds of 11-25 year olds in other parts of the
North-west, www.KOOTH.com offers advice and professional counselling
online through secure chat rooms and a private messaging system.
The name KOOTH is a word play on ‘uncouth’ – a derogatory term often
applied to young people. They can log on for free, confidential help
with problems ranging from low self-esteem and depression, to eating
disorders, family troubles, and sexuality and relationship issues.
KOOTH is fully checked to make sure it is suitable and safe for young
people to use, and is staffed by a team of specially trained counsellors
and advice workers. It’s supported by a number of the region’s local
authorities, including Wigan Council.
The Wigan launch takes place next Wednesday (10th October, 2pm-4) at
Haigh Hall, with a keynote speech from the council’s Director of
Children and Young People’s Services, Nick Jarman. He says: “Online
support can be an important first step for many young people who face
all kinds of anxieties and aren’t sure which way to turn. For us, it’s
another way of reaching them before they reach crisis point.”
Also attending the launch are Councillor Brian Wilson, Cabinet Champion
for Children & Young People, and Elaine Bousfield from Xenzone, the
people behind KOOTH.
-ends-
Further information
• For further information please contact Kennedy Stewart, Young People’s
Press Officer at Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust.
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