Reg Charity Number 1000797
More About Us
There may be times in our lives when we all feel unable to cope. The St Barnabas’ vision is a simple one – to help those facing emotional problems who cannot manage this from their own resources, where those less able to pay are not excluded from counselling.
Founded in 1974 our Centre is one of the largest in the region. We take clients (many referred by GPs) from all over Norfolk and some parts of Suffolk.
The St Barnabas Ethos
- Non-
discriminating - we see people regardless of their background, problem or current circumstances. Individuals can self- refer and we accept referrals from GPs. - Affordable -
in every case we take into account our clients’ ability to pay. Often those most in need of counselling are least able to pay. Many clients contribute the recommended minimum of £15 per session while the true cost of counselling is around £30 per session (private counsellors may charge £35 - £50). Many of our clients would have no other counselling opportunity available. - Flexible counselling services -
clients choose for how long and how often they come . We support our clients until they themselves feel a resolution has been reached. - Experienced -
our counsellors have not only undergone years of training but many are highly experienced. - Professional and ethical -
our work is underpinned by an Advisory Council of mental health professionals. - Volunteers -
all our counsellors work voluntarily. - Support for counsellors -
we support counsellors through training placements, and provide them with in- house supervision provided by paid, fully qualified supervisors. In addition, the Centre holds training seminars and invites speakers - some known internationally - to talk on specialised areas of counselling.
Around 25% of people have suffered from depression or other mental illness in the UK and demand for counselling continues to rise. We currently have 25 volunteer counsellors (and 9 volunteer reception staff). We support and help clients with a very wide range of issues/problems: some suffer stress and anxiety, depression and despair, eating disorders, bereavement; others want to rescue their relationships or their life.
Funding at St Barnabas
We hold our own fundraising events and gain valuable support from businesses and the public, whilst other income comes from client donations and Friends of St Barnabas. We also rely on the generosity and goodwill of Charitable Trusts (we receive no government or NHS support and are responsible for all our own funding).
This year we need to raise £5,000 to fund this work -
If you would like to help the Centre financially please contact our administrator, Kelvin Smith, on admin@stbcc.org.com
Many thanks for your support