Off The Record (Bristol) — Mental Health Services in Bristol, England

I was referred to this service by my GP for mental health support, as it’s advertised as offering free talking sessions for people aged 11–25. Unfortunately, my experience left me feeling frustrated and confused. I was informed that the service is divided in a way that didn’t seem clearly communicated beforehand: the 11–18 provision was described as being for white British individuals, while the 18–25 support was said to be aimed at Black and mixed-heritage individuals. As someone who falls into the 18–25 age group but does not meet those criteria, I was told this service was not available to me. This was difficult to hear, especially as I’m struggling with my mental health and was told this was one of the only accessible options without paying for private therapy. My GP was also surprised and contacted the service directly during my appointment, where she received the same explanation. I fully support the importance of providing targeted mental health support for different communities, especially those who may face additional barriers. However, mental health affects people of all backgrounds, and it’s important that services are transparent about their criteria and ensure that people seeking help are clearly guided to appropriate alternatives if they are not eligible. At the very least, clearer communication and signposting would help avoid situations like this, where someone in need of support feels turned away without options.

Me and my daughter went along and trued to join in the hub drop in session, but we were told to look online and sent away. How do we join as it said its drop in?

I had a weird experience with otr. I went in when I was in a very vulnerable place and I felt very uncomfortable. I remember breaking down in a really busy environment and talking to a guy who wasn't even a counsellor. I got a session however I never heard from them again. It would have helped me a lot back then.

It helped to teach me how to handle my mental health problems, all the staff are very friendly and accepting, and it's the easiest form of free counselling in Bristol

Incredible organisation, they have supported me so well over the years, and I've got to try so many new opportunities/get into other projects because of them!

I was told I’d have 6 sessions of CBT; I was given 6 sessions which included 4 sessions of councilling (listening to my problems) and 2 sessions of inappropriate, attempted Behavioural Therapy (not CBT). The therapist said she’d give my notes to the organisation which would choose who would be most beneficial to help me next. I found out 8 months later (after, due to a fault of theirs, that my place on the waiting list was cancelled without warning) that the ‘therapist’ did not make notes on my 4 sessions of providing information on my condition. I am thoroughly disappointed, and feel cheated by the system.

Definitely helped and are continuing to help with my mental health issue. There is a waiting list for counselling which cannot be helped but they have been so kind in offering temporary help. Worth giving them a go for sure.

Amazing place with brilliant staff and fantastic support!

This is the perfect place to go to if you're having struggles with life. I did have to wait a few months to start my therapy as there was a long waiting list for the specific type I wanted to do but when I finished it after 12 weeks. I felt great. I now am happier than I've ever been before and am so much more confident. Special thank you to my art therapist for helping me.

Fantastic service, offering friendly, down-to-earth support. Highly recommend it to any young person out there who feels they'd like to talk.