The latest Counselling and Support Services Southend (CASSS) newsletter shares local counselling, mental health support, volunteering opportunities, events and professional training.

Service updates

• ReKindle Couples Counselling has welcomed three new therapists—Claire, Marie and Gintare—who join Sian as ReKindle Specialists. Couples can refer themselves directly, and the service currently has no waiting list.
• Abacus Counselling and Support also currently has no waiting list. Sessions take place at Prittlewell House or Avenue Baptist Church, with clients asked to make a negotiable contribution towards the cost.

Volunteering and support

The SAVS Supported Volunteering Project helps people who have experienced mental ill health to enter volunteering. It offers one-to-one support to build confidence, reduce isolation, recognise existing skills and find suitable roles.

The newsletter also highlights the Southend Volunteering Hub, where residents can find opportunities and charities can advertise volunteer roles.

Compass provides a central point of contact for domestic abuse support across Southend, Essex and Thurrock. It connects victims—and people seeking help to change abusive behaviour—with the most appropriate local service.

Events and activities

The Feel Good Festival will take place at Garons Park on Saturday 8 August, from 10am to 4pm. The free event will include activities and opportunities to meet local support agencies.

A free Rain or Shine walking therapy trial was also promoted at Trust Links Rochford. The programme combines peer-led walking, talking and sitting sessions with a Himalayan sound bath.

Training

The Counselling Training Hub is now registered as a UK Learning Provider and is enrolling for its seven-month, part-time Level 3 Skills in Counselling course, beginning in September 2026. Around ten morning and evening places were available at the time of publication.

Awareness dates

• World Suicide Prevention Day – 10 September
• World Mental Health Day – 10 October
• OCD Awareness Week – 12–18 October
• Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month – November
• National Stress Awareness Day – 4 November
• Anti-Bullying Week – 13–17 November

The newsletter concludes with national articles covering gambling harms, depression and anxiety among footballers, the effects of hot weather on mental health and antidepressant use, children’s mental healthcare referrals, movement and mood, and alternative approaches to supporting wellbeing.

Read the full issue by clicking here.