molly_issue34_winter

HEALTSPORTH &
Naomi Watkins’ Counselling Hub CIC (NWCH)
Toys help children
to relax
counseing – could it unlock
a brighter future for your child?
Unless you have first-hand
experience of living with a
troubled child or young person,
it can be hard to realise
how many countywide are
struggling with issues which
are disrupting their schooling,
destroying friendships, causing
them to ditch university or
give-up on their first job.
(l-r) NWCH Chief Executive Naomi Watkins
and NWCH Bid Writer Nadine Daubney
Parents and carers might not immediately spot a problem, but
there are tell-tale signs and identifying them early-on is vital.
But, even if you are feeling there is no support out there, you
are not alone. Help is at hand – and families can access it
directly or be referred by a professional worker.
We’re referring to counselling or “the talking treatment”
– although in reality it is as much about listening. Whatever
term you use, it is proving to be a real lifeline for so many
families, when it comes to getting a child or young person to
open-up about their problems, so that they can be helped to
turn things around.
Naomi Watkins is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive of the
Naomi Watkins’ Counselling Hub CIC (NWCH) in Lincoln.
Since it started offering its services to children, teenagers,
single adults, couples and families 18 months ago, it has
received more than 600 referrals.
Amazingly, more than half of those have involved children and
young people between the ages of four and 25-years-old.
“Things which might alert a parent or carer are noticeable
changes in a child or young person’s behaviour. Typically,
some will become quiet and withdrawn and reticent about
engaging in activities or talking to people,” said Naomi.
“Others will do the opposite, and start acting out their
frustrations, have difficulty in dealing with their emotions
and maybe become hyperactive or act out.
10
Winter 2018