A new mental health centre in Peckham, specially designed for young people, has opened its doors – virtually.
The drop-in centre in Rye Lane for thirteen and up was due to open this month, a milestone put on hold due to COVID-19. It is part of Southwark Council’s commitment to support every child and young person with a mental health condition.
Although not physically open, support is still available online and over the phone from this week. The centre also now has a name, The Nest. It is free and completely confidential.
Councillor Jasmine Ali, cabinet member for children, schools and adult social care, said: “During this time of great stress and disruption, we must forge ahead with our efforts to support young people with mental health problems, which are hugely exacerbated by the current health crisis.
“While we can’t open a physical building as promised this week, we can keep up the momentum and ensure that young people have all the support they need.
“When the ‘lockdown’ restrictions are lifted and the doors are open, we fully intend to expand the service to support all children and young people under the age of 25.
“Good mental health is as important as good physical health and children need to get support with their emotional or mental wellbeing when they need it, on demand, without waiting for a referral.”
The new service will be run in partnership with Groundwork London, which was awarded the contract following a competitive process in January.
Its director of youth, employment and skills, Graham Parry, said: “All Southwark’s young people deserve safe spaces in real life and online where they can talk about their mental health and well-being with people who can really help.
“Groundwork are excited to be launching The Nest on behalf of Southwark Council, a service that has been designed with young people to offer mental health support in the way they have told us they want it.”
For more information visit https://www.thenestsouthwark.org.uk/ email thenest@groundwork.org.uk or phone 020 8138 1805.