“We first met Katie back in February this year, up until that point we found ourselves struggling with a situation that seemed to have no answers, a parallel universe. Our son had been struggling for a year and a half if not longer from PTSD through injuries as a youngster, to the beginning of lockdown which in all honesty took everyone to the edge in one way or another.

School was difficult and not a safe space for him , home was his safe space. The battle we took to help him as no-one could see what we could see until that time when his hair loss showed visible signs of anxiety, low self esteem, depression, social withdrawal, OCD. The child we and everyone loves and knew to be funny , outgoing, life and sole of the party, with the happiest of smiles to light up a room, changed completely, it felt like grief loosing some one that I cannot explain. Katie walked through our door with the biggest of smiles which straight away lifted us with so much hope.

My son is willing to talk about it sometimes as much as he understands himself and only when it's a good day for him, small steps. Most illnesses can be relieved with medication, but those unseen are harder to treat and quite often the most scariest. Katie's belief in seeing someone beneath the surface and the potential they have being given support, understanding encouragement in a non pressured way is something special. However most importantly someone who never gives up on that person, this absolutely blew me away.

Doors open and shut very quickly, however this is a door that has stayed open with Katie there and our friendship is growing in a short space of time.

The hardest journey is understanding what is going on beneath the surface, but we are learning each day small steps and achievements.

Mental health a sometimes an unseen illness that is a global health concern considered to be within the top ten illnesses in terms of the impact to individuals and the populations. This illness doesn't just affect that individual but everyone around them who cares and loves them.

Since COVID it has become more apparent how may people are struggling and there is just not enough support available, charities like this one are so needed to create a safe space for individuals to flourish and be who they are to their best ability.

I hope that I can give something to support our Son and  family, others and Katie to achieve what's needed to live and enjoy a life that so rightly deserved for these young adults. Our next generation."

— Kim Morl

“Kate has been supporting my brother, who has been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and anxiety, and the work she has done is incredible. She has not only helped improve his mental health, but also supported our family through school meetings and by creating new opportunities for him.

I accommodated my brother at the provision at Asset Fitness, Harlow Football Club — and it has been amazing. He has made real progress in his mental health and has become much more determined to make a difference in both his fitness and overall lifestyle. He now feels very comfortable in the space and says the facility is of a very high standard, which has made a big difference to his engagement and confidence.

The personal trainers, Andre and Sid, have been truly inspiring. They always put the young people first and are very engaging. My brother has learned so much from them, and it's had a huge impact on his confidence.

Sar, from the Active Essex Foundation, has also been amazing. She's taught my brother about different food groups, what they do, and how to use them — which has really helped him understand and improve his diet. She also takes part in the activities and offers support to all the young people involved, helping create a positive and inclusive environment.

The Active Essex Foundation as a whole has been outstanding — providing education around mental health, nutrition, and social development. Kate has played a vital role in supporting my brother's education, attending meetings and helping with his online learning.

This group genuinely puts young people first, and I couldn't recommend them more highly”

— Michael Wood, Carer

“The dedication and support that EVERY member of this team offer to ALL the Children and Parents that attend this Group is just unbelievable. Always encouraging everyone to join in with the Group Discussions and Brainstorming Sessions, which have proved to be a great way for our Children to open-up and talk about feelings, fears and worries. This is something unfortunately us Parents have been unable to achieve.

Kate has been amazing since we met her, never giving up on any of the Children, she has always been there for both of us with not only emotion support, but with such kindness and mental support through every step of this new process. Kate brings out the good qualities in my Child and boosts his self-confidence as an individual, for the first time my Child actually feels he belongs somewhere and fits in.

Sid and Andrea have provided not only emotion support to all, but also the team building and exercise routines they provide make everything so enjoyable and fun for everyone involved. They are both so approachable no matter what the issue may be, ensuring that nothing is a problem and always providing the Children with a solution to any situation. The kindness they possess and positive, but fun way they encourage every child to participate in all activities is just amazing.

I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart, for being a unique set of individuals, your time, effort and kindness makes such a different to our lives.

I feel extremely privileged to have met each one of you, for never judging us Parents or our Children for the struggles we are going through as a family, because of you all we now see a more Positive and Achievable Future!!”

— Lisa Simmons, Parent

“My son has been working with katie for a while now. Meeting her changed my family's life, finally there was a person hearing us and truly caring. Together with Andrea and sid they have created an exceptional service for young people that need extra support or an alternative way of learning. The environment is light and comfortable and the staff friendly, funny and hugely supportive. I'll be forever grateful for this much needed service."

— Nikki Bourne, Parent

“ I was referred to Kate Bristow through a psychologist at The Limes Surgery in Epping whilst seeking support for my grandson. He had been out of mainstream education for over a year due to significant mental health challenges. At the time he was isolated, anxious and rarely left his room. He struggled with low self esteem and had very little confidence. We found it extremely difficult to find any meaningful support.

Meeting Kate was a turning point. My grandson found her easy to talk to and soon felt comfortable with her. I was struck by her enthusiasm and the sense that she genuinely cared. Kate gave us so much of her time and explained in depth what the, 'Sports Smart' programme involved.

From the first visit we were impressed by Kate's approach and by the great facilities at Harlow Town Football Club. It was a safe and welcoming space where my grandson quickly felt at ease. Throughout the course, he also worked closely with coaches Andrea and Sid. He took part in all of the activities and formed some strong, positive relationships.

Since being on the course, we have seen an amazing transformation. His confidence and self esteem have grown immensely and I'm proud to say that he has now been working for the past two months. This is something that seemed out of reach not so long ago.

This programme has made a massive difference to our lives. I feel very strongly that more services like this should be available and more easily accessible for young people. This would give them the opportunity to find a path towards a happy and worthwhile future. We are so grateful that my grandson has now managed to move forward.”

— Chris Haggen, Grandparent

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Katie for their unwavering support and guidance to a young person I referred in from Family Solutions. She has supported them in navigating their educational journey.

Katie'‘s dedication and insightful advice have been instrumental in helping this young person make informed decisions about their education. Her patience, encouragement, and genuine care have empowered the family as a whole and allowed them to build a firm, confident relationship with her. Katies commitment to fostering a positive and supportive relationship has made a significant impact in a family which have found it difficult to trust professionals previously.

Katie has also supported another YP referral from family solutions,  which will not be open to family Solutions and came in as a screening. This YP has additional needs and is struggling with gender dysmorphia and mental health concerns. Katie has accompanied me on home visit and made the young person,  feel at ease instantly . They said I feel like I have a new best friend.  

Communication from Katie in relation to referrals or advice on referrals is fantastic.

—Christina Garry, Family Solutions

From a family solutions perspective, Katie has been exceptional in seeking out placements and opportunities for him. She has taken into account his SEND needs and been able to support in this area. With the other young person, Katie has been assisting in tailoring her education plan which has included tutoring, on the lead up to her GCSE exams.

Katie has attended Team Around the Family meetings for those families, and assisted us with working 1-1 with the young people. There has been a focus on their future, healthy relationships and self-esteem. This service has been so helpful for us and I hope we can keep referring!

— Madison Smith, Family Solutions