Fully funded mental health help is on offer for South Cambridgeshire Council tenants thanks to a new partnership between the District Council and Cogwheel Counselling.
The initiative, called Living Stronger, Coping Better, offers up to 10 free counselling sessions per individual, either in person or online, aiming to provide timely and professional support where it’s most needed.
Support is available for Council house tenants experiencing mental health challenges who are ready to engage with services, many of whom will be identified by the Council’s mental health support officer.
The project has been given almost £12,000 of funding overall through the Assura Community Fund and is designed to address the growing need for accessible mental health services in the region. Support will be delivered by Cambridge-based charity Cogwheel Counselling.
Cllr Henry Batchelor, Lead Cabinet Member for Communities at South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “This initiative is about removing barriers to mental health support. Sadly, the cost, stigma, or simply not knowing where to turn can prevent people from getting help. Partnering with Cogwheel means our Council tenants will have direct access to compassionate, professional support at no cost to them. We’re delighted to work with Cogwheel to bring this vital service to the community. No one should have to face emotional challenges alone.”
Referrals are made by the Housing Management Team at the District Council, ensuring the service reaches those who may be struggling in silence.
Each participant will undergo an initial assessment followed by weekly counselling sessions, delivered by qualified or final-stage trainee counsellors under close professional supervision. The project aims to offer a first appointment within four to six weeks of contact, subject to availability.
Cogwheel, a trusted local charity with a long-standing commitment to emotional well-being, brings decades of experience to the partnership. It offers a generalist service working with mild and moderate issues. At times of challenge or when difficulties compound, specialist work possibly over a longer time period may be needed. If this is the case, alternative options will be discussed at assessment.
Isabelle Dolis, Head of Services at Cogwheel, said: “Seeking help takes a lot of courage, men in particular can struggle to open up and share their challenges. We are delighted to be part of a way forward to support this cohort of clients and contribute to initial steps towards a more compassionate understanding of the challenges they face and help them make changes towards a life they deem worth living.”
· Residents interested in accessing the service should speak with their Housing Officer, who can initiate a referral with the individual’s consent.
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