Advice available throughout the year for Lancashire young people who need help
Written by John Williamson on 04/02/2019
Lancashire County Council is reminding young people that a service providing a lifeline if they are in need of help and advice is available every day of the year.
Talkzone offers advice, guidance, support and information for young people between the ages of 12 and 19. Talkzone is available by phone, email, text, Facebook, Twitter and webtalk. It is also available up to the age of 25 for young people with special educational needs or a disability.
The service is available between 2pm and 10pm, every day of the year. Talkzone is provided by the county council’s Children and Family Wellbeing Service.
County Councillor Susie Charles, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools, said: “I’m glad we have Talkzone available to help. I’m told that we received 2,500 enquiries in December alone, on a range of issues.
“Young people don’t have to cope with their problems alone on any day of the year, as Talkzone is always there.
“Talkzone is staffed by caring workers who are experienced in dealing with a wide range of issues. They’ve probably dealt with every problem and question under the sun.
“If you’re a young person and need to discuss anything, you can ring, text or email and one of our advisers will help. We’ve even tailored the hours that the service is available to fit with when young people use it the most.”
Gaja Gannon, the manager of Talkzone, added: “We have qualified and experienced staff on hand, who are used to dealing with anything and everything that young people call about. They really can talk about any worries, whatever they might be.
“Recently we’ve been contacted about many issues including problems at home, anxiety, homelessness, finding a job, careers advice and bereavement.
“I’m so glad that people are able to turn to us for support.
“Talkzone can help young people with family and relationship issues – contraceptive, drugs and alcohol advice – or information about finding a job. No matter how big or small the issue is, Talkzone is available to help all young people in Lancashire.”
The service is open from 2pm to 10pm, every day of the year. Young people are welcome to ring on 0800 511111, text on 07786 511111, email talkzone@lancashire.gov.uk or visit www.facebook.com/LancashireYZ to talk about any issue that concerns them.
More information about Talkzone and other information for young people is available at www.lancashire.gov.uk/youthzone.
Talkzone will also remind young people of the support that is available to them from Lancashire County Council and other organisations.
