A free weekly wellbeing drop-in café for young people aged 13 to 19 is providing a vital safe space for teenagers in Frome who may be struggling with anxiety, low mood, bullying or other mental health challenges.
Run by local charity Focus Frome, the drop-in takes place every Thursday during term time from 3.30pm to 5pm at The Good Heart Café.
The informal, confidential space is facilitated by trained professional counsellors and offers young people the chance to talk, relax and access support in a welcoming environment.
Organisers say, “For many, having a regular weekly space where they feel safe and welcome has become a sanctuary.”
Focus Frome launched the drop-in in response to increasing numbers of young people seeking counselling, particularly through referrals from local schools, including Frome College, Selwood Academy, Oakfield Academy and Avanti Park School.
The initiative also provides what counsellors call a ‘waiting well’ approach, offering early support and coping strategies while young people wait for one-to-one counselling sessions.
Since opening its doors, the drop-in has supported a wide range of young people, with around 80% of those attending going on to receive subsidised one-to-one counselling sessions with Focus.
One young person who attended the group said, “I always felt welcomed and safe. I’ve recommended it to many friends. It helped me through the stress of sixth form and taught me skills I know I can use for whatever challenges I face in the future.”
A parent said, “Over a comforting cup of tea, our daughter finally felt able to open up about her feelings of loss. Lucia connected us with a counsellor and the entire experience was transformative.”
Focus Counselling is a registered charity that relies on the support of local partners and funders to subsidise counselling for people who would otherwise struggle to access professional mental health support.
The Good Heart Cafe is based at 7 Palmer Street.
To enquire about counselling with Focus Frome, call 01373 485051 or email: office@focusbath.com.
