PLATFORM, a mental health and social change charity, is delivering counselling, training and group-based support for thousands of Swansea pupils. Funded by Swansea Council, the program offers school-based support for children and young people aged 5–19, including counselling, peer mentoring, transition support, training, and one-to-one and group wellbeing sessions.
Under Welsh Government legislation, all schools in Wales must provide timely access to school-based counselling. This initiative goes further, incorporating wellbeing interventions, group-based support, and training, aligning with the Welsh Government’s Whole School Approach to Emotional and Mental Wellbeing Framework, which ensures the entire school community contributes to creating the conditions where pupils thrive. Since its launch in September 2024, the initiative has received over 500 referrals for mental health support, highlighting the urgent need for these services.
Overseen by a team of in-house Psychologists, Wellbeing Practitioners, and accredited Counsellors, they provide age-appropriate support and can incorporate creative therapeutic models, such as art therapy and sand tray therapy, which allow children—particularly younger ones—to express their feelings in a safe and supportive environment. By focusing on early intervention, the service enhances understanding of emotional wellbeing while creating safe spaces where pupils can connect and access further support.
The program also collaborates with community resources and specialist services, complementing existing support systems and strengthening connections with schools, families, and external organisations.
“Young people are saying it’s giving them the support they need”
“I felt like the sessions gave me a moment to reflect and put things back into perspective again. Things have been more difficult than normal…having this group once a week was a little bit of an escape for me.”
Platform’s Young People’s Service Lead, Sarah Hamilton, commented:
“Young people are at the heart of our delivery model. Our approach draws on extensive experience supporting children with psychological, social, and emotional challenges, while working closely with statutory partners, teachers, parents, and communities to improve wellbeing.
We recognise that children’s behaviours often reflect unmet needs or responses to difficult experiences. Early interventions not only nurture positive connections but also help young people better understand and manage their feelings, equipping them with tools to thrive. With over 500 referrals so far, young people are telling us this program is giving them the support they need. Thank you to the whole team who have joined us and continued to support young people”.
