With around 1 in 5 young people aged 8 to 25 living with a probable mental health disorder*, and more than three quarters of teachers reporting experiencing workplace stress, there is a growing requirement for mental health support.

For schools and colleges across Lancashire, supporting emotional wellbeing has become just as important as supporting academic achievement.

Every day, education professionals help young people navigate anxiety, low mood, family difficulties, friendship challenges and the pressures of modern life. All while managing increasing workloads, performance expectations and the emotional demands that come with caring for others.

As pressures continue to grow for both pupils and staff, access to professional mental health support has never been more important.

Freeflow Counselling Service has been supporting people across Lancashire since 1997. For more than 19 years, we have worked directly with schools and colleges, helping pupils and education professionals access support to improve wellbeing, build resilience and overcome challenges.

"Our role is to provide a safe, welcoming space where people can talk openly, feel heard and access support without judgement," says Chief Executive Officer, Edel McGinn.

Growing challenges in schools

Mental health difficulties can have a significant impact on a young person's confidence, relationships and ability to engage with education. Increasingly, schools are supporting pupils who are experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, social anxiety, low self-esteem, bereavement, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, family breakdown, trauma and the pressures of social media and modern life.

These difficulties can affect attendance, concentration, behaviour, academic performance and overall wellbeing, making early intervention and timely support more important than ever.

The challenge extends beyond pupils.

In 2025, 76% of teachers reported experiencing workplace stress**. While teachers and support staff play a vital role in creating positive learning environments, they are often balancing academic responsibilities alongside safeguarding concerns and the emotional needs of their pupils.

Many education professionals are regularly supporting young people through complex issues including bereavement, self-harm, suicidal ideation, family difficulties and mental health crises, often whilst managing significant pressures within their own professional and personal lives.

Without the right support, the impact can be felt across the entire school community.

Mental health support for pupils and staff

Through our School Counselling Service, we work closely with schools and colleges to provide pupils with a safe, confidential space to explore their thoughts and feelings with a qualified professional. Counselling can help young people better understand their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies and build resilience for the future.

Alongside pupil support, we also provide staff wellbeing sessions, reflective supervision and confidential opportunities for education professionals to process any emotional demands of their role.

These services are designed to support staff before reaching burnout, helping to strengthen resilience, reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing. The result is often reduced absence, improved morale and a healthier environment for both staff and pupils.

"Every school and college is different, which is why we work closely with staff to understand what support will have the greatest impact," says our Schools Development Engagement Lead, Andrea Southwell. "Whether that's counselling for pupils, staff wellbeing sessions or reflective supervision, our aim is to create safe, supportive space for both pupils and staff."

A continued commitment to school wellbeing

"For nearly two decades, we have seen the difference that early intervention and consistent support can make within schools and colleges," says Edel. "Whether it’s a young person struggling with anxiety, depression, bereavement, self-harm or suicidal thoughts, or a member of staff feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of their role, being listened to and supported at the right time can be life-changing.”

At Freeflow, we are committed to working alongside schools and colleges across Lancashire, ensuring both pupils and staff have access to the support they need, when they need it. To find out more about our School Counselling Service and staff wellbeing support, please call us on 07551 444 641 or 01282 450545, or complete our online contact form here.

*Source – Mind

**Source – Skills Training Group