CHILDREN and young people in the Wellington area can find out where and how to access the type of counselling they need through a new website.

The Somerset Counselling Youth Access site has been launched by a new county-wide group of counselling organisations.

Executive project director and chairman Doreen Smith said: "Somerset Children’s and Young People’s Counselling Alliance is a partnership of six leading counselling organisations in the county. Each provide counselling, information, advice and support to children and young people aged five to 25.

"We have come together to help children and young people have the best access to counselling. Counselling is something which will help support their mental and emotional well-being at this time."

Wellington Community Counselling (WCC) is one of the organisations taking part in the alliance. The community interest company delivers free and affordable counselling for vulnerable children and adults and families in Wellington and the surrounding area.

Referrals are via GPs, health visitors and self-referrals. Counselling is offered by trained and trainee counsellors.

The Somerset Counselling Youth Access website will make it easy to access high quality and trusted services. These can be accessed face-to-face, online or over the phone. For further information, go to https://www.scya.org.uk