A young people's mental health service reported an "influx of referrals" since it began operating last month.
According to the charity Mind BLMK, the Wellbeing Navigator Service, external is available to Central Bedfordshire residents aged 16 to 25 who self-refer online.
Unidentified young person receiving assistance said the response was "quick and positive," adding that people could meet in a "safe space" and be "open and honest.".
According to Gemma Bonfield, its project development manager, it had "already relieved pressure from education providers in supporting young people.". .
One teen who has used the service expressed his hope that they will help him progress: "I often feel stuck. ".
A different person remarked that a charity worker was able to meet people in various settings, making it seem like "they are coming to me, which helps when you're anxious.".
Another person said, "The service is already helping me by just giving me someone to talk to, as I know that it is a safe space and I can be open and honest.".
At Flitwick Hub, drop-in sessions are held every Thursday from 16:00 to 18:00.
According to the charity, it aims to provide "the most vulnerable young people" with eight hours of individualized support in order to provide them with "the tools, skills, and knowledge they need.".
Ms. Bonfield reported that many young people have utilized the program's services since it began on May 2. Individuals can self-refer or receive referrals from GPs, mental health professionals, teachers, support staff, or family and friends. .
Together with Central Bedfordshire Council, the facility was established.
At Flitwick Hub, drop-in sessions are held every Thursday from 16:00 to 18:00.
It sought to "support people with challenges that arise in their lives at the most critical times," according to Ms. Bonfield.
It specifically wanted to concentrate on young people who lived in the most underprivileged areas, those who identified as LGBTQ+ or had doubts about their identity, young carers, those with neurodiverse conditions, care leavers, and children who were raised in foster care.
Additionally, it sought out young men, particularly those from disadvantaged and ethnic backgrounds, who were more likely to experience mental health issues but who were not seeking help proportionately, according to the evidence.
