I attend a secondary school with over 1700 students, yet we only have one school counsellor. This is not enough to meet the mental health needs of so many young people.

Due to this shortage, there is a huge waiting list for students to see a counsellor. Many of us are struggling with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and other challenges, and we are not getting the support we need. I am one of the students on this waiting list.

I am calling for the government to allocate more funding for schools to hire at least 1 counsellor per 200 students. This would make a massive difference in providing needed mental health support to students across Lancashire and the UK. School counsellors are essential for our wellbeing, helping us to manage our mental health, academic pressure and our personal challenges. But right now, far too many students are being left without help because there simply aren’t enough counsellors available.

Why are more school counsellors needed?

• Mental health issues are on the rise among young people, and early support can prevent things from getting worse.
• Long waiting times mean students are left feeling unsupported when they need help the most.
• Having more counsellors available will help improve overall student wellbeing, leading to better academic outcomes and healthier, happier students.

Sign this petition to urge the government to increase funding for more school counsellors, ensuring that no student has to wait months to receive the support they need.