“You’re Not Alone”: Local support for young people’s mental health

Mental health is something that more and more young people are talking about—and for good reason. Right now, 1 in 4 young people aged 16–24 in England are living with a mental health condition. Among young women, that number jumps to over 1 in 3. Whether it’s anxiety, low mood, self-harm, or just feeling overwhelmed, the struggle is real, and so is the support.

If you're living in Westminster or Kensington & Chelsea, there are many free and local services designed specifically for young people aged 16–25. Here’s a breakdown of what’s out there, what’s new, and how to get help if you or someone you know is going through it.

NHS and  local support that gets it

Best For You

This NHS programme is all about helping young people with their mental health online, in hospital, and in the community. There’s everything from digital support to one-to-one therapy. It’s available in Westminster and across nearby boroughs.

Westminster Community Mental Health Hub

This NHS hub offers personalised care for young people with ongoing mental health needs living in Westminster. You can be referred by your GP or another service.

“We Got U” Campaign

Run by Westminster City Council and RBKC, this project is all about reminding young people they’re not alone. It points you towards free services like:

• Kooth: anonymous online chat and counselling
• YoungMinds textline: text YM to 85258 for free 24/7 crisis support
• You can also talk with your teachers at school and the college mental health teams

“It’s ok not to be ok”, especially for young women

Mental health hits young women particularly hard. Around 1 in 4 young women have self-harmed or seriously struggled with their mental health by age 17. That’s why some local services offer specific support just for young women and girls.

Maia Young Women and Girls Service

Run by CNWL, Maia offers therapy, group sessions, and drop-ins for young women aged 16–25. It’s a safe, understanding space to talk about mental health, trauma, identity, and more.

Women’s Trust

Offers free counselling and support groups for women, especially those affected by domestic abuse or trauma. You don’t need a GP referral to get help.

Local youth clubs and empowerment projects

There are also women-led groups in youth centres across Westminster and RBKC focused on building confidence, friendships, and wellbeing. These are often funded through Community Solutions Grants, supporting mental health projects by and for local young people.

You can always ask for help, you are not alone, and there are places and services there to support you however much you would like.