Cuth to provide digital mental health support in Inverclyde

Cuth has been appointed by Inverclyde Council and the Inverclyde Health and Social Care Partnership to provide free, confidential and personalized digital mental health support for 16-26 year olds in the area.

The service will be available through www.kooth.com and will be available 24/7 without waiting lists or limits. Children will receive a safe and welcoming environment where they can receive non-judgmental professional support for any mental health concerns they may have.

The commission was funded by the Scottish Government’s Children and Young People’s Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Supports and Services Framework. This framework is part of Inverclyde’s commitment to helping young people access mental health care when they need it.

Kooth.com is accredited by the British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP) – the only digital mental health provider to have UK-wide accreditation. It is also designed to work alongside other services within established mental health pathways.

It was selected by Inverclyde Council and the Inverclyde Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) for its round the clock provision and availability 365 days a year.

Users will have access to a fully secure, pre-moderated community with a library of peer-to-peer and professionally produced content.

In addition, a one-to-one text-based chat service provides access to experienced counselors and wellness therapists from 12 noon to 10 pm during the week and 6 pm to 10 pm on weekends. Appointments for text service can be booked in advance or accessed through a drop-in chat system.

Dr Lynn Green, Chief Clinical Officer of Cuth, said: “It is not always easy for young people to seek the help they need when it comes to mental health, but we believe that people living in Inverclyde are medically vulnerable. Will benefit from being stronger than.” The service is designed to provide them access to timely and effective mental health care based on their individual preferences and needs.

“Inverclyde has really led the way when it comes to supporting and empowering young people in looking after their mental health. In addition, Kooth’s team of experienced therapists and professional counselors can provide support on many levels. Whatever the problem or situation, both services are here to help.”

To ensure that any young person in Inverclyde can access the service when they need it, Cuth will work with Inverclyde Council, HSCPs, GP surgeries, schools and community services to promote the service.

Kooth has entered into several partnerships aimed at increasing access to mental health support – most recently with Help for Heroes.