Kooth is an online mental health and wellbeing platform for children and young people. It offers a space where young people can explore their feelings, find advice and support, and take a first step towards getting help. Kooth says it is usually commissioned for young people aged 10 to 25, although age ranges can vary by area.
It may be a helpful resource for clergy households where a child, teenager or young adult needs mental health support that feels private and easy to access. Kooth offers anonymous peer discussion forums, self-help activities and messaging with mental health professionals, all within a moderated online space.
The platform is available 24/7. Its FAQ says one-to-one sessions with mental health practitioners are available as booked or drop-in sessions from midday to 10pm on weekdays and from 6pm to 10pm at weekends. Kooth also makes clear that it is not a crisis service, and advises anyone needing urgent help to use emergency or urgent support services instead.
What support does Kooth offer?
Kooth offers anonymous peer support, self-led wellbeing activities, moderated discussion forums and one-to-one support from trained professionals. Young people can use it to get advice, share how they are feeling, try coping activities and talk through what is on their mind.
Who is it for?
Kooth says it is for children and young people, usually aged 10 to 25, in areas where the service has been commissioned. Age ranges may vary depending on the local area.
Is it confidential?
Kooth describes itself as a free, safe and anonymous service. It says content is pre-moderated, visible to moderators, and managed within safeguarding and clinical governance guidelines.
How might it help?
It may be useful for a young person who wants support that feels less formal or easier to access than face-to-face help. It can also be a good starting point for someone who wants to explore feelings, coping tools and conversation at their own pace.