Charity wants to raise £100k for 30th anniversary

A charity that supports young people's mental wellbeing is making a push for donations as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.

Off the Record promotes emotional health and self-confidence among 11-25 year-olds across Bath & North East Somerset.

The charity launched a fundraising appeal in 2023 to support new projects and wants to reach its £100k target by the end of this year.

It says many issues are impacting young people’s mental health and want to fund “vital” projects to continue making a “lasting impact” on their lives.

OTR is the largest mental health support charity for young people in the area and, together with its Bristol and South Gloucestershire branches, offers counselling and support services.

It says it has seen a 40% increase in referrals in the last two years, attributing this to young people navigating the post-Covid 19 world and dealing with financial and social pressures.

Three decades since the charity was formed, bosses say they want to cement projects in the local community.

With £73,000 already raised as part of its 'Young Futures' appeal, OTR is hoping to reach its 100k target through donations and people holding fundraising over the festive period.

“Thanks to generous donations from local businesses, individuals and grant-making trusts, the Young Futures Appeal is doing well so far", says CEO, Phil Walters.

He says the charity can already see the "difference they are making in young people's lives" through schemes funded by the money raised so far.

The charity has identified that young people of colour are statistically more likely to experience poor mental health and discrimination.

It wants to start a new project called Connected Roots, for young black people.