In 2022-23, 6,300 children and young people had waited more than two years before beginning treatment. Yet private counselling sessions, which range from £50 to £150 per 50-minute session, are out of reach for many.

Professional counselling from just £25 per hour

Boxing Futures is launching a new service – low-cost, high-quality counselling services. The initiative is designed to support the mental health of young people in Peterborough and Cambridgeshire.

Starting in September, young people can receive professional counselling from qualified practitioners for just £25 per hour – far below the national average. Each client will receive 10 one-hour sessions, with additional support if needed. Though the service will prioritise individuals aged 14–19 years, the sessions are targeted at those aged 12-25 years.

Additionally, Boxing Futures is offering free places based on individual circumstances.

Boxing Futures CEO Anthony York said: “We are delighted to be offering this service, which reflects our ongoing commitment to address the needs of the young people we serve. The NHS estimates that one in five children and young people aged 8 to 25 in England have a probable mental health condition. Waiting times in England are too long – in 2022-23, 6,300 children and young people had waited more than two years before beginning treatment. Yet private counselling sessions, which range from £50 to £150 per 50-minute session, are out of reach for many.”

"Here in Peterborough and Cambridgeshire, we can help bridge this gap, and we have already had overwhelming interest in the service."

Anthony York, Boxing Futures CEO

Unique collaborative service

Operations manager Jamie Weston said: “Ours is a unique model. To keep services affordable and impactful, we’re teaming up with Diploma Level 4 counselling students who need placement hours. Under expert supervision, students gain experience while the community receives essential support.”

Psychotherapists Stefanie Radjenovic and Daniella Smith (registered BACP members) lead the clinical team.

They will assess each referral, ensuring those in need of the support are assigned to the most appropriate practitioner. They will also offer hands-on supervision while students secure external clinical supervisors.

They will also work personally with clients requiring higher levels of intervention.

“This program represents our commitment to a holistic approach to wellbeing, addressing the growing need for accessible mental health care in our region. We’re not just supporting individuals - we’re training future professionals and strengthening community resilience."

Boxing Futures psychotherapist, Stefanie Radjenovic

Find Out More

To find out more about Chatterbox, call our Programmes Manager Jamie Weston.

Alternatively, EMAIL JAMIE