YCT, a local mental health charity for children and young people, successfully landed £216,761 worth of funding from the National Lottery’s Community Fund. The funding will be used to support up to 300 more young people with free counselling sessions, decrease play therapy waiting times by up to 40% and fund the start of YCT’s Youth Ambassador Committee. 

To celebrate this amazing news, YCT held a launch party on 23/08/2024 at YCT House on Maddox Road. After a speech from their CEO, Katy Bradbury, guests enjoyed some refreshments whilst discussing the exciting plans for the funding. They also unveiled their brand new play therapy room, with a ribbon cutting by resident senior play therapist Julia Gibson. 

Katy said: “We would like to thank the Community Fund and its players for making grants like this one possible. The difference that the money makes to local communities is astounding and we are so grateful to be a beneficiary. We cannot wait to see what the next three years of working with the National Lottery holds for our children and young people!”

Helen Bushell, Head of Regional Funding for London, the South East and East of England at The National Lottery Community Fund, said:“We’ve seen the vital role Young Concern Trust plays in Harlow, helping young people take back control of their future and put the steps in place to thrive.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, I’m delighted we are continuing our relationship with the Trust, helping to create a healthier, more resilient and more inclusive local community.”

YCT has been supporting children and young people in Harlow since 1988, through the provision of free and accessible mental health support. Their services include counselling, play therapy and art therapy, as well as social groups for young people to join. 

If you know of a child or young person who you would like to refer to YCT for some support, please go to www.yctsupport.com/refer or alternatively, call 01279 414090.