CHILDREN in Wrexham will soon be able to access free face-to-face emotional health and wellbeing support, thanks to funding from BBC Children in Need and other charitable organisations.

Children in Need, Health Foundation, Impact on Urban Health and The Children’s Society, along with Children First, and MACS who have all teamed up to deliver a new initiative called Space to Grow.

The Wrexham service will start up in 2025 as one of 13 areas chosen to host the Space to grow programme, which aims to support around 6,000 children aged 8 to 13 over the next two years.

Space to grow specifically targets children who are often underrepresented in emotional health services, including those from the global majority, young carers, and LGBTQ+ youth. Alongside direct support, the programme will build an evidence base to advocate for improvements in emotional health and wellbeing services. 

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The service isn't just for children. Parents, carers, and school staff will also receive resources to help them talk about tough topics with youngsters. Plus, digital support will be available through The Children’s Society’s MeTime app, and in Scotland, adults can access help via Children First's support line.

Mark Russell, chief executive of The Children’s Society, said: “We’re thrilled to launch Space to grow and support so many children before they reach crisis point.

"Thank you BBC Children in Need for this £1 million, which enables us to reach children who often miss out on early help. We look forward to supporting thousands more children, so that they are happier, healthier, and thriving."

Dr Alex George said: “I was honoured to meet with the brilliant team at The Children’s Society back in May to present them with the BBC Children in Need A Million & Me Award.

"It has been a pleasure to follow their journey since and see them make great strides in the early intervention approach to mental health in such a short amount of time. I look forward to seeing their continued impact in the space with the launch of the programme, inspiring safe and regular conversations around mental and emotional wellbeing."

For more information about the programme, including how to refer in, email spacetogrow@childrenssociety.org.uk.