Young People's Views on School Counselling

Education Minister John O'Dowd with Alex Greer (left) and Daire McCotter (right)

Counselling in school can have a significant positive impact on young people’s mental wellbeing. That was the message from Education Minister, John O’Dowd, as he launched a report by Children’s Law Centre advisory group youth@clc into young people’s views on counselling in schools.

Speaking during a launch event in Parliament Buildings, the Minister said: “Professional counselling can be a massive support to a young person in distress. I have received many comments to this effect from pupils and staff during school visits and I know there is research available to back up this view too".

The youth@clc report makes six key recommendations and Mr O'Dowd plans to give them all consideration when shaping the future delivery of counselling in schools.