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You Are Not Alone This Christmas

The Season of Giving

For many, Christmas is a time of joy, laughter, and togetherness. However, for some, it can be a difficult time of year. If you are struggling this Christmas, please remember that you are not alone. There are many organisations and individuals who want to help.

Here at Kingsley School Devon, we recognise that with Christmas fast approaching, some young people may struggle during the holidays. Without the access to the daily pastoral support, teaching staff and friends that the school community provides, the holidays can be isolating.

Kooth Digital Health, a partner organisation, offers free and anonymous therapeutic mental health and wellbeing support to young people in Devon aged 11-18. Kooth offers ‘on the day’ wellbeing support from the comfort of your own home, via any web-enabled device. You can access Kooth through the following website:

Ages 11-18: www.kooth.com

Kooth offers a variety of resources to help you or your friends navigate any challenges you may be facing:

Free access to online text-based practitioner chats: Talk directly with a qualified professional counsellor.
Self-help tools and activities: Learn coping mechanisms and develop healthy habits.
Journal spaces: Express yourself confidentially and track your progress.
Advice from non-judgmental, safe, and moderated peer-to-peer communities: Connect with others who understand your experiences.

There is no threshold, waiting list or referral process. Kooth provides support for ANY issues you may be experiencing, including: body image, self-esteem, loneliness, bereavement, academic pressures, stress, anxiety, friendships, sexuality, life changes.

The registration process is quick, anonymous and safe, simply by registering at www.kooth.com using non-identifiable information.

This Christmas, remember, you are not alone. There is help available.

Here are some organisations that can provide additional support:

The Samaritans: This charity offers confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can call them free of charge on 116 123
Mind: This mental health charity provides information and support for people experiencing mental health problems. You can visit their website or call their Infoline on 0300 123 3393.
Crisis: This charity provides support for people experiencing homelessness, including accommodation, food, and essential services. You can visit their website or call their helpline on 0808 800 2222.
Age UK: This charity provides support for older people, including advice on health, finances, and social care. You can visit their website or call their Advice Line on 0800 169 6565.
Northern Devon Foodbank - Bideford: This is the main food bank serving the Bideford area. You can find their contact information and opening hours on their website: https://northerndevon.foodbank.org.uk/locations/ East the Water Community Food Pantry will also be open during the Christmas break.