Off The Record is a unique organisation for young people, who often feel that they are ’on the edge’ of a life that feels bleak, overwhelming, despairing, hopeless and all too much for them.
I felt enormously grateful for my experiences of being involved with Off The Record, both as a volunteer and in a paid post working with young people as Young Person’s Co-ordinator. This was an immensely enriching, rewarding and satisfying role in so many ways and it gave me a real insight into the passion, determination, commitment and incredible hard work dedicated by the ‘OTR’ staff team, trustees and volunteers, to keep OTR running.
As a Child Therapist, Play Therapist, Adult Therapist and Supervisor, I would like to cite here the importance of ‘OTR’ continuing to flourish; and as I have my own private practice working with children and young people, I feel qualified to comment on the urgent need to keep this facility open for young people; indeed I often refer clients on to Off The Record.
Counselling and therapy has many and wide-ranging benefits to enable a young person to face their fears, overcome challenges and embrace life in a more positive way. However counselling and therapy is also costly and many young people ‘living on the edge’ simply would not afford to access life changing and often desperately needed support when they most need it due to financial constraints.
What is at stake here is not only OTR but a greater picture for mankind to evolve. It is crucially important that voluntary services such as ‘OTR’ are supported and funded adequately with more secure statutory provisions. Counselling and therapy is often seen as a ‘middle class’ luxury – this view must not be made a reality. It is my deepest belief that every child or young person has the right to expertise to help them to flourish with motional health and well-being and this should be regardless of financial standing. Were ‘OTR’ to close, equally this saddens me and concerns me deeply. Doctors have full waiting lists, CAMHS often have 18 months waiting lists and other voluntary and statutory services are already over-stretched. Were this to be the case, I believe some young people would NOT be able to cope with life along, without support during troubled times. Inevitably suicidal intent will rise, possible along with action, and mental health will deteriorate.
It is imperative that ‘OTR’ is secured more funding and given the standing it deserves with more security to continue to evolve in vulnerable communities with wholehearted support and encouragement for the campaign.
Warmest wishes and love
Emma Red (Miss)
(Managing Director, Wild Child (Training & Development) Ltd

Ask anybody in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas 'do they know Off the Record?' and the answer would be 'yes'. So many stories to tell and so many lives touched over the last 30 years that this small but 'huge' charity has become part of the fabric of the local society; known by children, young people, parents, older people and professionals alike as the place where people care and more importantly where people listen.
A place that offers our young people a safe and secure environment; a place week after week where they can go and receive support without judgement, condemnation or criticism.
For me nearly 15 years down the line I have found fulfillment as a volunteer and many years later as a paid member of staff, it opened many doors and opportunities for me and I would like to say thank you.
Thank you to all those I worked alongside but more importantly thank you to all of those young people with whom I came in contact with, thank you for sharing and trusting me.
I feel sad that this major player in supporting young people is under threat of closure because of lack of funding; despite huge efforts generated by the volunteers and staff.
THIS IS A BIG MISTAKE AND MUST NOT HAPPEN!
Sue Carroll

I heard about Off The Record from a health care professional. Your counselling service, referrals, telephone support and web-site are all brilliant.
Female client, aged 17-18 from S E Hants
(responding to the on-line questionnaire)

I heard about OTR from a health care professional and accessed your web site looking for information, help and support Your email service is good!.
Female client, aged 20-25 from Portsmouth
(responding to the on-line questionnaire)

I arrived at Off The Record severely depressed, anxious about my future and convinced there was little anyone could do to help. Even the decision to ask for help was difficult as I felt this meant I was in some way weak. Upon arriving I found I could relax and felt able to discuss my problems, my counsellor proving to be a sympathetic ear and very comforting presence. From this point I began the process of rebuilding, re-thinking and adjusting my view from a more stable confident position and redeeming some of my self esteem and energy. Attending each session became second nature, as I had found an oasis of sanctuary and a place of constructive, positive thinking and working, taking me away from my everyday struggles.
In the time spent at Off The Record, I found a friendly, caring atmosphere, understanding, non-judgmental, helpful and healing.
Anon
(Ex-client)

I discovered OTR in August 1989. As a volunteer I learned a vast amount about the extensive support required by young people. In 2007 I believe that this support is even more crucial. OTR is a place where young people can “belong”, they receive the care, interest and support so lacking in the lives of many. The dedication of the volunteers is available to fill a massive gap which exists in our 21st century society. Receiving help to become more self-responsible, to build structure in their lives and to gain the skills of assertiveness provides a strong foundation for the rest of a young person’s life. Here’s to the next 30 years!
Janet Hanneman

Over the last 30 years “Off The Record” has given an invaluable service to many of the young people living in the local communities, offering help and advice that in many cases, unfortunately, cannot be obtained from home or family.
Having a “helping-hand” such as this obviously takes a lot of pressure off other services such as the NHS and Mental Health organisations.
It would, therefore, be devastating if “Off The Record” should be forced to close its doors due to lack of funding.
I sincerely hope that every effort is made to enable this charitable organisation to continue its essential work.
Councillor Elaine Shimbart

HAPPY 30TH BIRTHDAY OFF THE RECORD.
It’s such a shame that this event is marred by Off the Records financial plight.
As A qualified area youth worker I would normally support any good service for young people. Off the Record is much more than a good service, it is an excellent service that deserves more recognition and better funding.
I believe in Off the Record passionately, I have known what it stands for twenty seven years. I was a volunteer there for thirteen years and knew many wonderful people who were part of it and cared immensely about young people.
I first knew of Off the Record, when as a sixteen year old, I’d left home and needed somewhere to live. A friend suggested OTR they’d heard about it and told me they had a good reputation. I went to OTR then based behind the church in Botley road Leigh Park. Being a Saturday it was closed.
I returned five years later when I took a friend there because they were soon to be homeless. I was really impressed with how friendly, helpful and knowledgeable the people were. I remember to this day thinking I’d like to be part of that. I returned again eighteen months later. I’d just started part time youth work and wanted to more for young people. Having passed the required training and procedures I became an OTR volunteer. For me it was and still is an honour and a privilege.
For Thirteen years I saw at first hand the impact OTR had. I also heard people praising it in the community. I lived very close to OTR in Havant. I also spent time volunteering in both that office and the one in Portsmouth.
I only left because I gained a full time youth work post in Eastleigh; I left with many regrets as I believed so strongly in what OTR meant.
Been away for seven and a half years. Still hear people mention OTR, I still live in the area.
Having worked in Eastleigh for seven years I have seen what it’s like for young people in an area where they don’t have anything like OTR, problems go unresolved or intensify.
When a young person is helped through visiting Off the Record, often their families, friends and the wider community benefits, it’s just not seen or noticed. It may help a young person for the rest of their lives, I have bumped into young people who have used the service years later and they have said, what OTR, the people did their for them has always stayed with them, that they’ve never forgotten and how important it was for them.
It would be a tragedy to see such an important service face cut backs; it would leave a vacuum in the area for young people in need. This can’t be allowed to happen. I hope anyone with the ability to help fund OTR does so.
Paul McLeod
Area Youth Worker
Hampshire County Council Children’s Services Dept
Eastleigh Youth Team

I was both shocked and saddened to learn of the cash crisis within Off the Record. OTR is a unique organisation which will leave a gaping hole in the provision of youth services in Portsmouth and Havant if it is closed. Not only does it draw on a huge wealth of knowledge and experience from all of it workers (both paid and volunteers); it is the ethos of the service that makes it so special. I cannot think of another service that offers self referrals and free counselling as a basic provision, support by phone or the drop in facility, and also the enthusiasm of both support workers and counsellors in one organisation other than O.T.R. Surely in an age where we need to be investing in our young people we would do them a great injustice if this wonderful service was cut. I have seen for myself what a difference O.T.R can make to young people. There are woefully few services specifically aimed at young people. With the old social networks of family, neighbours, schools no longer an option for many of our youth, please don’t let this be another to add to the list.
A.Silvester
(Volunteer)

I first started at OTR when I was a teenager. I joined a self development group for young people which led onto me joining the rota after 6 months as a Support Worker. I joined a great team and was taught by a fab Support Worker. I quickly learnt that OTR was full of fab, likeminded people and fell in love with the place. A few years in I applied for a Sessional Group Worker role and continued to work my way up the line from there until I found myself running the project 7½ years later. I love working with young people, they have such great energy and provide the biggest challenges. I’ve worked with many different young people over the years from different backgrounds and situations and all have been great to work with however challenging they may be.
I’ve grown up at OTR and have made some amazing friends which I’ll treasure always. It has given me the greatest experience which has led me onto the job I’m doing now. I was extremely sad to have to leave the group work project due to funding as the young people that had been involved got so much out of the work we done, as did I. I’m still here as a Support Worker because I believe OTR is a great place for young people and has a huge affect on the lives that use it. I thank all at OTR for being who they are and caring.
Vicky S
(volunteer and ex Young Persons Group Worker)

I have worked as an unpaid volunteer for Off the Record for six years. I know I have made a difference to the lives of young people just by being there answering the phone to youngsters in crisis.
I think adults would be shocked to learn what young people go through. I have listened to young people dealing with experiences many adults never have in their life times. I think today it is a much tougher world for young people than the one I grew up in. I see Off the Record as quietly (unnoticed) investing in the local community and the vital training I have received has given me the confidence to be able to make a contribution.
Stewart
(Support Worker)

If I had not joined OTR I would never have thought of going to university to do a Diploma in Youth and Community Work. I have gained lots of experience whilst being a Support Worker and become a more confidential person when dealing with young people.
Andrea F
(volunteer)

Off the record is a great place with very friendly and lovely people there. I still go to off the record. I have counselling with Bob every Wednesday.
It is nice to have someone to talk to that doesnt know much about you and never judges you for what you have done or for what you do as people that know you very well may do. Also, Bob has given me some good advice :)
People at off the record are very chatty when you go in and welcome anyone :) ! They make you feel at home and i always feel comfortable speaking to the people there and having a chat :)
I cant say that counselling has changed my life or anything because at the mo it hasnt as I havent been doing it that long. Although, it had helped me and a lot of my friends and family that have also done it.
I advise anyone with any problems to consider counselling at off the record :)
Kirstie :)

Over the last few years Off The Record has provided an invaluable opportunity to a number of young people at Purbrook Park School. You trained these young people to a high standard so that they became very successful Buddies to the new year 7 intakes. It has been a real pleasure to see many of these pupils grow in confidence with the responsibility they have been given. We are very disappointed that you will no longer receive funding for this training as our year 7’s and other members of the school community have benefited greatly from having the opportunity to talk to their peers about the problems they have. Due to their training the Buddies were able to assess whether they needed to pass these problems on or whether they could deal with them alone. Buddies have become part of the fabric of Purbrook Park School and we intend to continue to encourage Peer Mentoring at this school and would be grateful of any help you may be able to give us in the future.
Sue Kelly
(Assistant Head Teacher/Pastoral Manager , Purbrook Park School)

When I first joined off the record 7 years ago, I was impressed by the relaxed and friendly atmosphere that greeted me as a new volunteer. The training was fun but efficiently delivered and it was clear that the client's wellbeing was paramount. After 7 months as a support worker and having satisfied the relevant criteria, I began my role as a volunteer using counselling skills.
As we never know who is going to come through the door or what issues they may have, I was a little anxious about meeting my first client. Fortunately my anxiety was shortlived and all was well. Sometimes in the early days I would emerge from a heavy session feeling emotionally drained but was always well supported by my colleagues. Like most things it gets easier with experience and I am proud of the results of my work. I am even more proud of my clients who have worked hard to complete their often painful journeys.
It would be impossible for me to say how many sad stories have had happy endings but I have seen a good few; multiply that by the number of volunteers at O.T.R. and you begin to see what an effective service it really is. I would like to thank O.T.R. on behalf of all my clients and for myself, I will always be grateful for the opportunity to share in the hopes and dreams of such special people. Long may it continue!
John C
(volunteer)

As a member of the staff team for the past 13 years I have seen many changes at Off The Record. Volunteers and paid staff come and go, various projects start and finish, policies and procedures change but what doesn't change is the crucial one to one support OTR is able to give to young people. This is core to what we do and what young people want, and this has never been 'wanted' as much as it is now by young people as we have waiting lists in both the Havant and Portsmouth bases. Young people need us and are telling us this by patiently waiting for appointments, and yet ironically this is not being recognised elsewhere through the essential funding needed to deliver the service for the future.
As an OTR member who is in the service each day before volunteers arrive, I frequently answer the door to our young drop in clients. Just recently a young man of 18 arrived at our doors in quite a distressed and lost state; released from prison just the week before, bruised from a street fight, and then finally kicked out by his parents. He was unable to make contact with his Probation worker or anyone as he had no phone. He may have looked like a tough cookie but there was a vulnerability in his eyes, yet he had enough courage to come to OTR and ask for help. Practical support and information was what he wanted from OTR and we were able to give it by making calls on his behalf, getting him somewhere to stay for the night and arming him with the information he needed before signposting him on ... and above all giving him time and listening to his plight. He went away satisfied but also knowing he could come back if he wanted to talk to someone again.
I feel honoured to work for such a charity as Off The Record and have personally gained so much myself over the years. Our membership of more than 100, the majority of which are volunteers, making the organisation the success it is today and I would like to thank them all and wish Off The Record a very happy 30th birthday and long may we continue!
Tina

The 6 months I have been at Off The Record as a volunteer support worker has been quite an emotional rollercoaster. I had expected my encounters with the young people coming to the centre for support and counselling to be interesting and diverse, but I never imagined it would stir my emotions so deeply being part of a team that works so hard giving young people support – and lets fact it, hope for the future!
Watching and listening to the youngsters and their parents in the reception area, my heart is lifted by some of the comments. Yesterday a girl of 12 turned to her step mum and said “I love it here – I can talk about everything”. What a result!
I dealt with a referral from a local hospital today on the phone. They needed counselling for a 13 year old girl and one of her parents. We were able to offer separate sessions for each. It’s so easy to see how invaluable Off The Record is for our clients, and it would be very upsetting to see it close due to lack of finance.
Steve (age 41)
(volunteer support worker)

I would like to thank everybody for making me feel welcome at off the record. I have been with them for 11 months and they have certainly made me VERY HAPPY. John has made me feel very confident about my personal family. They make everybody feel welcome, greeting them and asking everybody for a nice drink. They are all very funny and polite. We have had some laughs and I just wanted to say how great they are. Thankyou all for your help.
Hayley (age 12½)

My reaction on hearing of the financial difficulties facing Off The Record comprised a mixture of amazement, sadness and to be honest no small amount of anger and amazement at the continued short-sightedness of funding bodies.
I have been involved with the voluntary sector for over 25 years handling the various insurance requirements. Over that time I have always been impressed by the total commitment and dedication of those working and volunteering. Every year they seem to face and overcome restrictions and reductions in funding yet strive to maintain the same level of service by giving that bit more.
An organisation like OTR succeeds because of these people for whom their ‘job’ is more a way of life and belief that they can and will make a difference. They deserve similar commitment and support. For the organisation to face closure after 30 years through lack of funding verges on criminal neglect for the needs of young people of the area. The powers that be MUST think again otherwise they will realise only too late (as usual) what has been lost.
Happy birthday Off The Record!
Stephen E Hewett, ACII
(Chartered Insurance Practitioner)

It is with considerable sadness and concern to hear about the financial challenges that Off The Record is currently facing. For many young people it is the independence and accessibility of a service that will be of most relevance to them, Off The Record has always been able to meet these demands.
I hope that common sense will prevail and a sustainable solution can be found for this current crisis to prevent the loss of a vital service to young people across Portsmouth and SE Hants.
Charlie Adie
(CEO, Motiv8)

I was 22 when I joined OTR after hearing about it from the local services. As a partially sighted person, I found it hard to find a volunteer role that would support me. OTR has given me this wonderful opportunity. Since I joined, my interest in counselling has grown and I have gone on to college and completed level 1 & 2 in counselling skills.
I would not have had the confidence to do this without the support of OTR.
My confidence has continued to grow, and I am returning to college in September to study aromatherapy
Vicki

I joined OTR in March 2007. I was lucky enough to complete the 4 day training and started on a slot in Portsmouth on a Thursday afternoon. OTR has been nothing but supportive to me in every way and working as a volunteer has changed my outlook on life and work.
The support we offer young people is priceless. Some of the young people we see have no where else to go for support and the feeling it gives to be here for these young people is hugely rewarding. It puts your own life into perspective. I love working with the team, and it will leave a huge hole in the community if we cease to exist.
Sandy
(a happy Support Worker from Havant)

It is paramount that Off The Record is not allowed to close.
This is the only organisation that is always there for young people, even on “Christmas Day”.
To be able to talk to someone when life seems so terrible and you are a young person, Off The Record can be a life saver to them.
The record numbers of clients speaks for itself – over “2,000” new clients for 2007 – and they have a waiting list as well.
Councillor Virginia Steel
(Havant Borough Council)

I have been volunteering at Off the Record for about 2 years now, both as a support worker and, for the last 18 months or so as a volunteer counsellor. I have personally benefited so much from my association with the service, both in terms of my self-confidence and professional development as a trainee counsellor. Working with such a friendly and supportive bunch of people, who care passionately about the young people who use the service, has been fantastic and awe-inspiring. The training I have received has always been of a very high standard and has been invaluable in supporting me with the work that I do both within and outside the service.
The drop in service, telephone help lines and one to one counselling support offered by the service provides young people with a safe and confidential space, where they can come and talk through the many issues that they face during what can be a very confusing, difficult and painful period in their lives. Young people are our future and deserve our support, respect and understanding. I feel that it would be a travesty if this valuable service was to close because of lack of funding.
Lesley
(Volunteer at Portsmouth)

As a youth work manager in Havant some years ago, I have often referred young people to Off The Record, knowing they would get the sort of professional, caring support that was exactly what they needed. I am very sorry to see that OTR is facing a funding crisis, and sincerely hope that funders will look at the potential impact of losing such a valuable service. Starting it again from scratch will always be much more difficult than continuing to fund something that is already successful.
Cath Longhurst
(CEO, Education Business Partnership)

As you know I have fond historical memories of Off the Record as I remember 30 years ago when it was set up. I was a Graphic Arts student and designed one of the first posters for Off the Record. (I believe I still have a copy of it in a Portfolio in the loft somewhere).
More recently I did some training for Off the Record on 'Understanding and Working with Angry Young People' and was impressed at the very efficient and professional way the training was organised by yourself and by the interest and dedication of the volunteers who attended.
As a Specialist CAMHS practitioner in Portsmouth I know that we recommend your service when appropriate to young people we may come in contact with. Many young people may not reach the criteria for the mental health services particularly those between the age of 16 and 25. Or young people may be reluctant to attend 'mental health' services because they perceive there may be a stigma attached to this. Off the record provides a valuable listening and confidential service to many young people. With 30 years experience of doing this I fully support this service continuing and hope that Off the Record manage to get the continuing support and funding that they need to do this.
Melanie Wells

I came to know Off The Record in 1990 when I began their excellent training course before working as a volunteer offering counselling and support to young people.
What became obvious very early on was how seriously OTR took the quality of training of the volunteers, the support and service that was offered to young people, the respect with which they were treated and the determination of the team to make and keep the service accessible, user friendly and responsive to their needs.
The volunteers were initially evaluated and were required to commit to the ethos of OTR. In return we were given high quality training, on-going for the whole time we remained with the service, and supervision. All the training, supervision and support was always with young peoples' needs in mind.
I could not have wished for a better introduction to what became for me a full time career in counselling. I remained a volunteer with OTR for 10 years, initially as a counsellor and trainer before becoming a supervisor.
There is no other organisation quite like it and it would be a sad loss indeed if OTR was unable to carry on. It's well known and highly regarded by young people and professionals alike, and still its training programme is recognised as a quality grounding for a career in counselling.
There is little enough for young people and I hope a way can be found for this dedicated service to continue.
Patricia Duke
(Accredited practitioner with British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.
U.K. Reg. Independent Practitioner, Dip H. Ed. Portsmouth University)

It is with sadness that we have heard about the difficulties you are facing with the funding of your service.
Staff at the Child and Family Therapy Service (CFS) at Havant, would like to express the important place that they feel your service holds in supporting young people in the community.
We often direct adolescents to your service and commend the positive work that you do with them. The absence of your service would create a large gap in the provision locally for young people with mental health problems who do not meet our referral criteria or are above the age limit for our service. Therefore, especially as according to our government, CAMHS is ‘everybody’s business’, we would like to lend our written to support to you.
The Child and Family Therapy Service
(Havant)

"For the first time since I fled my home I have felt like a human being - I thank you for giving me my dignity back".
Said to me by a young Algerian refugee I worked with for a period of time at Portsmouth as we finished our work together.
Kath J
(Volunteer)

There are sceptics out there who may ask the question “Why do you need to have an organisation such as OTR at all?” Young people never had counselling in my day, why is that such an organisation should exist at all? “Why do youngsters need this?“
I could probably write a thesis in response to the statements above. I could comment, in depth, on teenagers, their emotional and physical needs, the structure of families and their role in the development of young people and could create a list of relevant factors highlighting the different world in which young people live today.... But that would be pointless.
The point is that OTR has existed for a long time and young people have been coming through its doors for 30 years!
Thousands of young people have been provided with a listening, supportive and comforting ear at a time when no one else appeared to be listening....
Thousands of young people have benefited from the kindness and wisdom of the volunteers that give their time to OTR....
Thousands of young people have learnt to trust again....
So, without this service, who will listen? where will our young people go?, with every other statutory service bursting at the seams organisations that provide a free, ongoing and truly valuable service must flourish....
If we want to create emotionally stable and intelligent adults of tomorrow we have to look after the young people of today.
Kath J
(Trustee/Director)

Hampshire Childrens Services Department and Havant Youth team have supported Off The Record for many years. This is the only counselling service for young people in Havant, they have continued to grow and develop their service in line with the increasing complex needs of young people often with multiple and difficult issues.
It is a free and confidential service that works hard at ensuring young people are involved in the development of the service. All the volunteers are well trained, supported and supervised to a high standard.
I have no doubt that Off The Record have supported numerous vulnerable young people through very difficult times in their lives, providing a life line in times of crisis.
I'd like to take this opportunity to congratulate them on their 30th birthday and wish them all the best for the future.
Ria Emery
(Senior Youth Worker, Childrens Services- Havant Youth Team)

I hope Off the Record gets the support it needs. During the training I gave a few years back, I found the volunteers and staff to be well trained, highly engaged, extremely dedicated and very enthusiastic. Certainly youth in Portsmouth need their counseling services to continue to be available.
Babette Rothschild
(author The Body Remembers: The Psychophysiology of Trauma and Trauma Treatment)

I have been a Support worker for OTR for about 4 months now. I feel privileged that I have been given the opportunity to be involved with this excellent organisation and be a member of a team that offers the support for those young people who sometimes find life difficult.
When I went on the training days to be a volunteer (BAV) I was encouraged by the enormous amount of enthusiasm and caring that was shown by the existing members of OTR, this enthusiasm was very infectious and contributed to my belief that I had made the right decision to train to be a volunteer.
At the time of my BAV training I was also involved in a Counselling Skills Level 2 course at Portsmouth college, and I believe that since becoming a volunteer Support Worker, whilst still at College, helped me a great deal with the course, because it gave, and gives, me the opportunity to take the skills I have learnt at college out into the 'real world' and to put the theory I have learnt into practise.
It would be a terrible shame if OTR was forced to close and this valuable help that it gives to troubled young people was no longer available.
Good luck and best wishes
Tony D

The confidential service that OTR provides is fundamental to the provision of support for young people in the Havant Borough and City of Portsmouth. The person-centred counseling approach used by OTR volunteers helps to raise self esteem and empowers young people to take responsibility for their decisions and their actions, giving them confidence and essential skills necessary for life. Being involved with OTR from 1989 - 1996, I had the privilege of working with many young people experiencing a range of difficult issues – bullying, gambling, sexuality, sexual abuse, homelessness, bereavement, debt, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts – are just a few. On several occasions, the young person had already tried to tell an adult about their distress – unfortunately, they had not been listened to. During the counseling sessions, these young people worked hard to overcome their difficulties and share very painful experiences – where will they go if OTR is not there, what might happen? How many adults will they have to tell before they are heard? OTR provides a “safe”, non-judgemental and confidential environment where young people are welcomed and valued – the very fact that it is not a statutory organisation makes it accessible and acceptable to young people who are vulnerable, wary of statutory agencies, and to those who are potentially at risk. It is providing the services that will help young people to meet the ECM 5 outcomes for children and young people.
Sandra
(former staff member and volunteer)

I joined Off The Record in the summer of 1999. I had recently moved back to Portsmouth after living and working in London. I wanted to try and help those less fortunate than myself and I found Off The Record does just that.
Off The Record provides a listening ear when often young people have no one else they can turn to. I was a volunteer at Off The Record for 5 years before leaving in 2005 to have 2 children of my own. I hope that my children have Off The Record to turn to if they ever feel they need to speak to someone and family/friends are just too close to help.
I had always been 100% supported by IBM, who I work for, with regards to my volunteering. They gave me time off when I attended training courses with Off The Record and they awarded Off The Record a community grant in appreciation of Off The Records hard work.
IBM are this year behind a team of 20 employees who are going to dedicate a day to Off The Record to help them re-vamp their offices in Havant. It's called an 'IBM Community Challenge - One small day, one big difference'. IBM see the value of Off The Record in the community and they appreciate the work that they do. They understand the importance of the service and the fact that it wouldn't be able to survive without volunteers committing their time and effort.
Everyone I have spoken to about Off The Record both in IBM and outside have said what a great service it is to have for young people in the area and I can't agree more.
I wish Off The Record all the best for the future and congratulations for 30 years so far!
Suzy Gage

It is important for those who work alongside young people to enable them to explore the nature of relationships and factors that can influence the way they feel about themselves and behave towards others. It is also of equal importance that young people are given the opportunities to learn some of the skills that are required in order for them to be equipped to establish relationships, sustain relationships, and end a variety of relationships in ways that leave themselves and others with their self-respect intact. Learning how to compromise, be honest, listen, negotiate and share a range of feelings is vital to young peoples development. I know that OFF THE RECORD are involved in this time and time again in their support of young people. "Off the Record" is a valuable service and one which I continue to promote with young people and the agencies I come into contact with.
Best wishes for the 30th Birthday.
Christine Lucas-Smith
(Area Youth Worker, Western Wards, Havant Youth Team Children's Services)

I first came to off the record when I was 20 having just moved into the county. I was in quite a vulnerable state at the time but always remember how safe and calming the visits I had to my counsellor were at the time. Four years later I returned as a volunteer, very nervous but very willing, wanting to give something back. That was about twelve years ago, but still I have had so much in return during that time in terms of confidence and self belief and opportunities. I have volunteered as a support worker then as a counsellor, I’ve gained skills in supervision and in training others over time.
I’ve met some special people in that time who are great friends so it has also helped me socially. The young people I have met over the years have been and continue to be an inspiration that fuels my passion for this very special service. Let us not forget they are the future and for that reason alone deserve the support that Off The Record gives so well.
Jo

From one counselling organisation to another.
Off The Record is an organisation that is needed in the area. Helping young people address their problems can turn their lives around and fit them better for adult life. Would be a shame if this charity were to close.
Relate Portsmouth & District

I joined Off The Record back in April of this year after completing the series of 4-day workshops on the “Being a Volunteer” recruitment training (BAV). I gained so much confidence whilst sharing time with like minded people. I decided to join Off The Record after losing my best friend from cancer the previous year when I helped her through the real bad times. I continue myself to draw strength from helping others at Off The Record.
To welcome clients that visit the centre and to talk on the phone to very vulnerable people makes me realize the importance in giving a couple of hours a week to help. To be that listening ear to someone who really has no one else to turn to gives me a great sense of worth.
The thought of Off The Record closing, be it through lack of funding or any other means would truly be devastating for all, but mainly for the young people in our community who are the ones who REALLY APPRECIATE us being here.
Fran
(Volunteer Support Worker)

I'm shocked and upset by the news of the threat of closure.
I have worked in the South East Hants area as a counsellor, group facilitator and trainer for ten years and have been aware, during that time through client and other professional contact, of the excellent reputation of your agency in its work with young people. In a training capacity I have delivered a number of workshops and always found the volunteers that attended to be highly enthusiastic, motivated and ethically sound and your organisation to be efficient and well organised.
I therefore hold your service in high regard and have had no hesitation in recommending Off the Record to people on countless occasions over the years. It is with surprise approaching astonishment that I learned of the shocking news. I hope very much that the service can be saved for otherwise an invaluable facility to a client group and a locale that desperately needs such a supportive service will be lost. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help your cause.
John McCarthy

Having worked for Off the Record for over six years in a voluntary capacity as a support worker and a Counsellor; I feel privileged to have helped a large number of young people through periods of difficulty. Some work through their issues in a few sessions, some need a year or two; either way, it is at their pace within their boundaries.
The range of issues brought to the service are as diverse as people themselves. These are explored in a safe, confidential environment and it is with pride that I witness them go from strength to strength as they face their issues and dissect the ones they need to and discard or move on from the rest. It is wonderful to see their personal growth, self belief and more positive thinking.
I know Off the Record makes a difference to so many people including ourselves. I feel supported and the training is second to none. It helped me to gain my Diploma in Counselling and my own personal growth has been amazing; I just wish I could have started this part of my journey earlier in my life.
A very happy volunteer

I’ve volunteered as a support worker with Off The Record for 18 months now. During that time I’ve watched young people come into our service in a distressed and often desperate state, then watched them leave some weeks or months later after they have attended counselling, looking much happier and more able to cope.
The on-going training that I have personally received has helped my understanding of some of the causes that affect young people so much.
I have to ask myself what would become of these young people if this valuable service is lost because we run out of money. My experience has shown that Off The Record really does make a huge difference.
Yvonne
(Volunteer support worker)

We are all very shocked and sad at Rainer City Training Solent, at the news that you will be closing your (group work) project Off The Record. We cannot quite believe it.
Undoubtedly, you have supported an enormous amount of young people who needed to change direction in life to fulfil their potential.
We will sorely miss the Confidence and Self-esteem workshops your team ran for us. We must not forget the Woodcraft Camps that you ran in Staunton Country Park. These were two programmes that really engaged the young people who were participating and helped confidence levels to soar.
We must also make mention of the young people we have referred for counselling support. Over the years of interacting with your project a large number of young people have benefited from having somewhere to go and someone to talk to in times of great personal need. We are wondering where they will go now.
We are hoping that common sense will bring funding to you again, and that we will be working alongside you in the future.
Lindsey Andrews
(In-house Tutor, Rainer City Training Solent)

When I was 16, I was getting into the drug scene, on the brink of exclusion from school, in trouble with the police and my family. Things were really bad … then I came to Off The Record and with the help of my counsellor I saw that I had choices in how I wanted to live my life. I have since gone to college and am now working as a plasterer with a building firm, I am doing extra hours free of charge to prove myself to my new employers. I plan to buy a van soon to help me with my work and hope to meet a nice young lady to settle down and have a family with.
I am a different person to how I was then, I am a happy, confident , young man. I am a good cook and will be a good catch one day when I’m set up, because I like to treat my girlfriend well and be supportive. I know this is down to OTR and I will never forget how you helped me turn my life around and I hope one day to be in a position to join you and help someone else turn their life around.
Anon
(Ex client, Havant)

Off The Record’s drop-in service is brilliant. The information provided was good, and my visits to off the record were helpful to me.
A female client, aged 13-16
(responding to the on-line questionnaire)

I am the manager of a grant scheme which has supported Off The Record in various parts of their work. I am glad that we can support an organisation that offers such an important and valued service to young people.
Off The Record staff have always responded quickly to our questions while we have been looking at their grant applications and the reports they send back to us have been detailed and in good time.
Kevin Sawers
(Local Network Fund programme manager)

Having worked with Young People for 15 years across the district, I've had links with OTR in many varied ways:
~ Working alongside the Choices Team delivering PSHE in Schools.
~ Delivering training to OTR staff.
~ Promoting our services together at events like SNAP Discos.
~ And of Course, recommending & referring Young People to OTR.
Happy Birthday To You All! It's been a Professional & Personal Privilege.
Looking Forward to Future Partnership Working.
Gordon Atkins
(Sex Sense)

I confirm that the above charity has been known to me for some 12 years. I have had a close working relationship with Off the record (SE Hants) as a manager of an organisation making referrals to its services, as a funder (Single Regeneration Budget Co-ordinator for Havant) and as local government officer supporting voluntary organisations.
Off the Record is an excellent example of a relatively small, local organisation which provides a highly professional youth counselling service. It has strong corporate governance and highly committed, professional staff.
I have personally, in my capacity as Single Regeneration Budget co-ordinator, overseen funding which was granted to Off the Record in previous years. I can confirm that the funds were used properly and that all returns were made on time and all outputs achieved.
I highly commend Off the Record (SE Hants) as a model voluntary organisation worthy of support by charitable trusts.
David Harris
(Economic Development/External Funding Officer, Havant Borough Council)

I started visiting Off The Record in October 2006 as I felt I had nowhere else to turn. My GP referred me to Off The Record as she felt that it would really benefit me. Off The Record has helped me continue with my life as I have someone to discuss my problems with. It has made me realize that I have people in my life that I can talk to. In the last 9 months of visiting Off The Record I have learnt not to bottle up my feeling, and take life day by day. I would recommend it to anyone as I feel that I have become a better person within myself with the help of my regular meetings at Off the Record.

I heard about off the record from a health care professional. Your counseling service, referrals, telephone support and web-site are all brilliant. I have been using the counselling services at Off The Record for a while now. and i think that they are fantastic :-) Highly recommended.
Female client, aged 16
(responding to the on-line questionnaire)

Counsel me better, Help me grow strong
Counsel me better, Help me belong
Promise to listen, And never to laugh
I’ve never known kindness, Just anger and wrath
Counsel me better, Help me forget
Guide me to find, What have I not known yet
How hard will it be to acknowledge the past?
The thought is so scary, How long does fear last?
Counsel me better, Show me you care
Travel my mind with me, Follow me there
I’ll tell you how dark it is, And I’ll tell you how cold
But you may not believe me, …or what you’ve been told

Counsel me better, Can this work for me?
Counsel me better, Help me to see
Help me believe that I am not bad
That it wasn’t my fault, That I am not mad
Counsel me better, I am learning to walk
Counsel me better, I am learning to talk
Inside me it feels I am constantly crying
For the small child that was, Who felt she was dying
Counsel me better, Feel my pain
Counsel me better, Always remain
As the one good thing, that I have, That I trust
Counsel me better, I need you, You must
Anon

I have been having counselling now at Off The Record for about a year now, since march 2006 and I have become so much happier in myself, my confidence has grown and I have made some good friends in the staff there. I attend Off The Record in Havant. Seeing as I have been using the facilities for so long I wanted to give something back to help them as much as they helped me. I decided to raise money by doing a sponsored bike ride from Clanfield to Havant and back, I raised £54, by doing this I feel I have helped them to help others like me.
I would highly recommend their services to ALL young adults.
Thanks to all the staff at off the record! :-) You're Special!
Danielle (Aged 16)

From May to June 2007, Off the Record took a group of us from Purbrook Park school and did a 10 week basic counselling skills course to help us be "buddies", to look after the year 7s when they come to our school. I learnt so much on this course, not only about how to be there for the year 7s to talk to, but also skills I could use in everyday life for example how to properly listen to friends and family. Our leaders Vicky and Nicola were always so cheerful and really motivated us on the course, and used practical exercises to teach us everything we would need to know. I really enjoyed the ten weeks, and was sad to see them end!
Zoe

The personal and social development of young people is even more important in today’s complex and changing world and rapid social and economic changes have created opportunities unknown to previous generations. However this also brings about insecurities and challenges for young people, their parents, their schools, their communities and society. The consequences of unintended teenage conceptions, drug misuse and criminal activity are part of the social context in which young people are growing up in and the communities in which they live.
Off the Record continues to provide a safe and secure environment in which young people can be supported in beginning to understand and value themselves, be optimistic and ambitious about their future and life’s possibilities as they pass through what will probably be the most difficult yet exciting period of their life.
Pete Marsh
(Strategic Manager – Youth and Community, Children’s Services, Hampshire County Council)

Has Off The Record helped you? Were you a young person or a volunteer? To celebrate our 30th birthday, please send us your story by e-mail or complete our on-line My Story form.