Off The Record is a busy service and our stats show volunteers record an average of 54 new client contacts each week (2009-10).

Following a pilot (also for 2009-10) we are now able to monitor the progress of, and show the outcomes for,  young people using our counselling services.  Non-identifiable assessment sheets are completed at the beginning and end of counselling, or as part of a formal 12 week review process for longer term clients.  Our aim is to fully involve clients in the review process and the outcomes we record are normally their assessment of their progress and feelings.

Initial data sets show clients accessing longer term support have consistently higher scores for the outcomes they achieve.  Outcomes for 129 young people (with average attendance of 15 sessions over an average period of 22 weeks) show:

64%       feel more positive and hopeful

61%       confirm improvements in self confidence and assurance

57%       feel more able to make their own decisions

56%       confirm improved communication skills

54%       no longer have anger issues and can manage difficult situations well

49%       feel more happy and settled at home

48%       feel their support network has improved

45%       confirm improved self image

40%       show more involvement in outside interests

22%       confirm reduced risk through drugs/alcohol

22%       confirm improved status re NEET

19%       feel less risk from their sexual behaviour

When we analyse the data against the ‘Every Child Matters’ categories, it shows that the counselling young people receive gives positive outcomes as follows:

88%       Enjoy and achieve

87%       Be healthy

86%       Stay safe

81%       Make a positive contribution

63%       Achieve economic well-being