Young Devon has introduced ‘MyWay’, a new mental health service designed to provide children and young people across Devon, Plymouth, and Torbay with better access, more choice, and real control over their mental health and wellbeing. This initiative aims to empower young individuals by offering a flexible menu of support options tailored to their needs, including one-to-one counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and wellbeing conversations.
These services are available both online and in community spaces, ensuring accessibility for all. Additionally, immediate digital support is provided through Kooth, the UK’s leading online mental health platform, which offers a safe, anonymous, and supportive environment for young people to seek help.
The ‘MyWay’ service is a collaboration between several respected youth organisations, including Young Devon, Kooth, Space Youth Services, Encompass South West, and Plymouth City Council Youth Service. Together, they are expanding the reach and impact of young people’s mental health support, combining digital innovation with strong community presence. The service is designed especially for individuals aged 11–17 but is open to those aged 8–25, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) or care experience. This inclusive approach ensures that all young people have access to the support they need, regardless of their background or circumstances.
One of the key features of the ‘MyWay’ service is its youth-led approach. Young people played a significant role in shaping the identity of the service, which reflects the vision of giving them real choice in how they access and navigate the support they need. The service puts young people in the driving seat, offering a flexible menu of support options tailored to their needs. This approach not only empowers young individuals but also ensures that the services provided are relevant and effective in addressing their unique challenges.
Andy Moreman, Chief Executive of Young Devon, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “This is a huge moment – not just for Young Devon, but for the thousands of young people across our region who now have more choice in how they get help. Together with our partners, we’re building a service that listens, empowers, and transforms lives.” This sentiment underscores the commitment of all involved parties to create a supportive environment where young people can thrive.
The launch of ‘MyWay’ is part of a broader effort to enhance mental health services for young people in the region. By integrating digital platforms like Kooth with community-based support, the initiative aims to provide timely, targeted support that meets young people where they are—online, in schools, and in their communities. This holistic approach not only addresses immediate mental health needs but also contributes to long-term wellbeing by building resilience and fostering a sense of belonging.
In addition to direct support services, the ‘MyWay’ initiative also focuses on reducing pressure on emergency services and improving outcomes in education and youth justice. By providing early access to mental health support, the service aims to prevent issues from escalating and ensure that young people receive the help they need before reaching crisis point. This proactive approach is expected to lead to better outcomes across various sectors, benefiting not only the individuals directly involved but also the wider community.
Young Devon, a charity that has been supporting young people across Devon since 1949, continues to be at the forefront of youth mental health services. With a team of 200 staff delivering services from fifteen sites, including Ivybridge, Exeter, Newton Abbot, Sidmouth, Barnstaple, and Ilfracombe, the organisation is well-positioned to make a significant impact on the mental health and wellbeing of young people in the region. The ‘MyWay’ service represents a bold new chapter in this ongoing mission, demonstrating a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and youth empowerment.
For more information about the ‘MyWay’ service and to access support, visit the official website. Young people seeking immediate digital support can also visit Kooth’s platform for free, safe, and anonymous assistance.
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