Off the Record Bath and NES Counselor

Off the Record – Counselling for Young People in Bath and North East Somerset

Putting Young People First

Off the Record (OTR) Bath and North East Somerset exists to improve the emotional wellbeing of young people aged 10 to 25. We believe every young person deserves to feel confident, heard and emotionally supported. That’s why we provide free, confidential and independent services across the region.

Life can present many challenges, particularly during adolescence. You may feel overwhelmed by school, relationships, identity, or family issues. Reaching out can be difficult, but it’s a crucial first step. OTR offers a welcoming space where young people are listened to and respected.

Services We Provide

At OTR, we provide a variety of services tailored to meet the needs of young people. All support is completely free, private and delivered in a youth-friendly way.

• Counselling – Our qualified counsellors create a safe space for you to explore your feelings. Together, you’ll work through challenges and build emotional strength at a pace that suits you.

• Listening Support – If you’re not ready for counselling, our listening service offers someone to talk to without judgement. It’s a relaxed and flexible form of help.

• Youth Participation – We empower young people to take the lead. Your views shape our services, ensuring they truly work for you and your peers.

• Support for Care Leavers and Advocacy – Leaving care can feel daunting. We provide one-to-one support, helping you build independence and access the services you need.

• LGBTQ+ Youth Group – We run a dedicated space for LGBTQ+ young people to meet, share, and feel valued. Everyone deserves to feel safe being themselves.

Our Values

We hold strong values that guide everything we do:

• Equality – We treat everyone with fairness and dignity.

• Youth-Centred – Young people are at the heart of our decision-making.

• Person-Centred – We respect your choices and support you to define your own path.

• Collaboration – We work closely with local organisations and communities.

• Inclusivity – We strive to remove barriers and make our services accessible to all.

• Confidentiality – What you share with us stays private. We take your trust seriously.

Get in Touch

Are you living, working or studying in BaNES and aged 10–25? If so, OTR is here for you. Whether you’re struggling or just need someone to talk to, we’ll walk with you every step of the way. You don’t need a referral — simply contact us to find out how we can help.