CTS are promoting the use of a new Childline app called ‘For me’. The new app is the first of its kind and provides counselling for young people directly through their mobile phone.

The app is free to download and offers a variety of services to help support students, including 1-2-1 chat with a counsellor, an ‘Ask Sam’ problem page, top tips and a private locker, which allows children to keep track of their mood and thoughts.

Emma Toye, the school’s Attendance and Welfare Officer and Sian Cairns, the School Nurse have been promoting the new app to help students take control of their mental health. Emma said ‘We are trying to equip students with the tools needed to support themselves. We are always here for students but this app gives students more independence and empowerment and allows 24 hour support, which is great for after school or during the holidays.’

 ‘As a TaMHS (Targeted Mental Health in Schools) school we have done lots to try and to stamp out the mental health stigma and provide our students with as much support as possible.’

An increased number of young people are using the Childline’s online services through email and 1-2-1 chat. Four children who saw an urgent need for young people to have easy access to confidential support and advice designed the free app.

Emma said ‘So far we have received such positive feedback about the app. Many of the students are using it regularly and as a tool to keep track of their moods. Some are even using it to recount information when they go to counselling sessions.’

Any students that wish to download the app can do so from the childline website or directly from the app store by searching ‘ForMe’.