The Wales Violence Prevention Unit is urging young people in Cardiff who are feeling anxious, uncertain or worried about their own or a friend’s behaviour to seek support this Christmas.
Research delivered by the Unit found that, throughout the pandemic, multiple helplines have seen a dramatic increase in young people seeking support for their mental wellbeing, with many reported to have been feeling lonely and anxious. Some services have also seen an increase in offences committed by young people, including assault and possession of drugs and weapons.
Now, as Wales prepares for a festive period unlike any other, the Unit is highlighting support services available to young people to help ensure they receive the support and guidance they need.
“We are concerned that as young people spend more time at home over the festive period, together level 4 restrictions, those who are vulnerable may experience more harm, whilst still having reduced access to care and support.
“We want young people in Cardiff to know they are not alone – and there are people ready to help them if they are feeling anxious, uncertain or worried about their own or a friend’s behaviour.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe, and we want to make sure young people in Cardiff get the support they need, no matter what the problem is.”
Jonathan Drake, Director, Wales Violence Prevention Unit
Cardiff Support Services for Young People:
Meic
Meic offers free, confidential, anonymous information, advice and advocacy helpline for children and young people.
Call free on 080880 23456 any day from 8am- midnight - https://www.meiccymru.org/get-help/
This will not show on your phone bill.
Chat online 1-2-1 with a member of the team 8am- midnight.
Text 84001 anytime.
This is free and won't show up on your phone bill.
Fearless
Fearless offers an anonymous reporting service – meaning you can report a crime or concern without having to give your name or any personal details.
Contact: 0800 555 111 / www.fearless.org
Media Academy Cymru
Media Academy Cymru is there to equip young people with the tools and self-esteem to succeed and make a real contribution to their communities, and help them make better choices. The team offer a range of opportunities to help young people find their passion and guide them towards a brighter future.
Contact: info@mediaacademycymru.wales
Cardiff City FC Foundation
Kicks is a youth outreach programme that aims to create safer communities and reduce offending by giving you people in South Wales access to free football sessions and opportunities for personal development.
We have created a number of online activities for young people aged 11-19 to take part in safely from home.
Kicks online activities include:
• Group video calls (occasionally joined by Cardiff City First Team Players)
• Football challenges
• Fitness challenges
• Healthy living, community safety and community coaching workshops
• FIFA tournaments
Safer Wales
Safer Wales help young girls who are experiencing exploitation and other forms of harm. Specialist caseworkers provide extensive support to access activities, one to one and support in the community. Safer Wales offer young girls access to the Champions of Wales programme to build confidence for those who feel disengaged from wider services. Specialist workers provide a range of activities working to change perceptions and attitudes towards girls.
Contact: rb@saferwales.com
Future 4
Future 4 help people access the support they need to build a better life and avoid involvement in the criminal justice system. Specialist caseworkers provide extensive support to help people to understand the strengths they have to overcome barriers they face and take opportunities to move forward confidently without further criminal justice involvement. Support is provided in police custody suites and in the community. This service is available for all women from 18 years of age and young adults 18-25.
Contact: wsa@saferwales.cjsm.net (women aged 17 years) / Future4@uk.g4s.cjsm.net
St Giles Trust
St Giles Trust help people overcome barriers and get the support they need to move forward with their lives. A young person can speak to one of their support workers about whatever is troubling them and start getting the support they deserve.
Contact: 02920 496363 / info@stgilestrust.org.uk