Support for Children and Young People

Hi there.
We know that when families change, like when parents separate or get divorced, it can feel really confusing, frustrating, or even scary.
You might have questions. Or big feelings. Or just want someone to listen and take you seriously. That’s what we’re here for.
On this page, you’ll find help, ideas, and ways to get support. Because no matter what’s happening around you, you matter.

When families go through change, lots of decisions have to be made, like who lives where, when you see each parent, or how holidays and school stuff will work.
Mediation is a way for your parents to talk things through with a trained professional and make plans without going to court. We think children and young people should have the chance to be heard when those plans affect their lives.

Some children and teens choose to meet with a special kind of mediator who is trained to listen to what they think. This is called Child-Inclusive Mediation (CIM).
It’s:
• Private – nothing is shared unless you say it’s okay
• Safe – you’re never asked to choose sides
• Voluntary – you don’t have to take part unless you want to

This can help your parents understand how things feel for you and make better decisions for everyone.
We usually offer this to children aged 10 and over, but sometimes younger children take part too, depending on what feels right.

Books by Dr. Angharad Rudkin (Child Psychologist & Author)
• What’s Going On Inside My Head? (Ages 7–11)
A fun and reassuring guide to thoughts, emotions, and mental wellbeing, perfect for helping kids understand their feelings.
• You’ve Got This: A Life Manual for Teenagers (with Tanith Carey)
Honest and practical advice for navigating teenage life, identity and relationships.
• Find Your Girl Squad (with Dr. Ranj Singh)
A gentle guide to building strong friendships and confidence — great for pre-teens.
• How to Be a Boy and Do It Your Own Way (with Dr. Ranj Singh)
Encouraging, empowering support for boys struggling with expectations and big emotions.

Find Angharad’s books on Amazon or your local bookshop.
________________________________________
Useful Websites
• Voices in the Middle – Created by and for teens whose parents are separating
• Young Minds – Mental health support, advice and coping tools
• Childline – Free and confidential phone line (0800 1111) and online support
• CAFCASS – My Family’s Changing – A booklet to help children understand separation

Why This Page Exists
Big feelings are normal when families change. Whether you’re feeling worried, sad, frustrated or just a bit muddled, we’ve got you.
This page is here for children and young people who need a break, something creative to focus on, or just a way to feel a little bit better inside. These free activities are gentle, fun, and designed to support emotional well-being.

You can use them:
• At home
• In school
• During or after mediation
• Just because you want to

What’s Inside
Everything on this page is:
•  Free to download
•  No branding or logos
•  Designed by child-focused professionals
•  Suitable for ages 6+ (and younger with support)
You don’t need to print them if you don’t want to — you can copy the ideas, draw your own versions, or just use them for inspiration.