We are delighted to announce we’ll be hosting two new series of Group Sessions for Young People in Merton. Starting in June these group sessions are available to young people who are either already registered with us or referred specifically for this group.

What Group Sessions Are Planned?

Creative Wellbeing Group Sessions
When: From 3rd June for 8 Weeks
Sessions Will Focus On: A creative space to explore different themes, such as change, loss, relationships, stress and self-care.
Ages: 11 to 14-year-olds
Location: Mitcham

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Group Sessions
When: From 5th June for 8 weeks
Sessions Will Focus On: Anxiety, Panic and Stress
Ages: 15 to 17-year-olds
Location: Mitcham

For young people who want to feel that they are not alone, these in-person group sessions offer a safe place to explore more about self-care and managing difficulties such as change, loss, relationships, low mood, exam stress and to explore wishes and hopes.

Whilst the CBT sessions will provide helpful tools for young people to learn to understand and cope with difficult feelings and experiences of anxiety, stress or panic, using art, games, play and other creative activities.

What Can I Expect At A Group Session?
Our initial sessions provide an opportunity for introductions between facilitators and each attendee. Using conversation cards, you’re given the chance to share your thoughts to help you feel comfortable and start to connect.

You will also create a group contract, agreeing on rules to make the space safe and respectful for all – this contract remains on display during each group session.

Each group session involves a ‘check-in’ where we use a game that relates to that week’s theme and offers space for discussion and to share experiences.

You will have the chance to discuss your hopes and wishes for the group, with the choice to share as much or as little information as you like during discussions. We want you to have autonomy in these sessions and feel empowered. The group is about collaboration between you and your group facilitators.

Sessions use different creative activities with materials such as paint and clay to help explore a weekly theme such as:

• Understanding Anxiety
• Worries
• Stress and Self-Care
• Identity and values
• Relationships
• School

Attendees can also speak with the Off the Record Facilitator individually before or after the sessions, particularly if you are finding aspects of working in the group difficult or if you find levels of emotional distress increasing.

How Can I Sign Up?
For young people from Croydon, Sutton and Merton, if you think these sessions are right for you, first thing to do is get in touch with us.

As this is a group session, we will initially talk through criteria to check your eligibility and suitability and your availability to attend the in-person groups in Mitcham.

Email: merton@talkofftherecord.org
Call: 020 7154 1040