There is a decline in mental health and the well-being of people’s coping methods especially after the current pandemic which has left people unable to receive support from local and NHS mental health centres due to the increase and demand. However, this problem will not be solved when people who want to be counsellors do not have the right funding to successfully qualify in Wales. 
The Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling in Wales has no student finance or funding to help support its students to take the 2 year part time course which qualifies them to be a practicing counsellor. This course alone is £2,995 currently in some colleges per year which does not include the books, stationary and fees for joining the BACP. In England, this course is fully funded to support students in becoming counsellors and gaining the necessary skills to work in doctor surgeries, mental health centres, etc as fully qualified counsellors. 

Something needs to change to help support people and students with qualifying as counsellors as there is a clear need for this in Wales yet as been neglected due to lack of funding. Please sign the petition to bring this attention to the education board as we are in desperate need of more counsellors yet there is no financial support in helping students qualify.