Advice service for young people available every day

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.

It is available by phone, email, text, Facebook, Twitter and webtalk, and 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, 365 days a 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: “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.

“If you’re a young person and need to discuss anything, you can ring, text or email and one of our advisers will help.”

Talkzone manager Gaja Gannon 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.

“We’ve been contacted about many issues including problems at home, anxiety, homelessness, finding a job, careers advice and bereavement.

“Talkzone can help with family and relationship issues – contraceptive, drugs and alcohol advice – or information about finding a job.”

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.