The Youth Information & Counselling Unit (YICU) provides a wealth of information on issues affecting young people including: self esteem, bullying, eating disorders, drugs, alcohol, sexual health, bereavement, smoking, and many more.
The service offers a free confidential counselling service to young people, for more information look at the frequently asked questions below.
Frequently asked questions
What choices do I have?
You come to us because you choose to. We do not offer you advice, we do not tell you what we think you should do. You come on your own terms, with your issues, and we work on those with you.
How can I contact you?
You can telephone us on the following number. Please leave a message on the answerphone when no-one is available.
Tel: 01482 886155
Alternately please use the on-line enquiry form.
How often do I visit?
We offer you up to an hour a week in a one-to-one situation. We do not limit the number of sessions, but initially you and your counsellor will usually decide on a certain number and after that you can agree some more.
Where do I go?
We will try to find somewhere convenient for you, maybe a Youth Centre or Community Centre.
Can I bring a family member or friend with me?
Some people feel a bit worried at the thought of being by themselves and therefore we will try to find a comfortable place where someone can sit and wait for you.
What if I miss an appointment?
We understand that people miss appointments for lots of reasons, usually something which cannot be predicted. You can contact the office on telephone number 01482 886155 to re-arrange your appointment.
If no-one is available then leave a message and we will call you back as soon as possible.
Can you keep what I say to yourself?
Once the counselling begins, your counsellor will not pass on anything you say, outside of YICU, with these exceptions:
1. Counsellors have supervisors. We might talk about our work with you to that person, without identifying you by name. Supervisors are bound by our confidentiality policy.
2. If you are under 18 and tell us that you are being abused, we have to pass on that information to Social Services. If you are over 18 and tell us about someone under 18 who is being abused or at risk, we will pass that on too.
3. If the counsellor had good grounds for believing that serious harm may occur to the client or to others.
4. We work as part of a multi-agency service, therefore other professionals may overhear names or arrangements made for appointments. These people are also bound by our confidentiality policy.
Normally, the decision to break confidentiality will, wherever possible, be with your agreement.
We have a full Statement of Confidentiality in our office. One of us will go through it with you if you wish.
What information do you keep about me?
A few details about you are kept locked up in the office. You can see these if you want to. Individual counsellors keep notes of counselling sessions. You have the right to see them.
Do you keep medical records?
We are not part of the Health Service and we do not keep medical records.
Do I have to pay?
No, this is a free service.
