Someone in your corner

Stepping Stones is for young people who could benefit from consistent, relationship-based support with their emotional wellbeing. You might be dealing with anxiety, low mood, bullying, bereavement, family difficulties, isolation or changes at school. You do not need a diagnosis to ask about support.

Your youth worker will listen without judgement and get to know what matters to you. Together, you can agree manageable goals and review how things are going. Taking part is voluntary, and your views help shape every step.

Support that works for you

Sessions can combine conversation with practical, creative or social activities. That might mean a walk and talk, developing everyday skills, exploring interests, reconnecting with school or trying something in your community with support.

Some young people need a short period of focused help; others benefit from longer, consistent contact. There is no fixed number of sessions. We plan endings together and can discuss coming back if circumstances change.

Taking the first step

Young people, parents, carers and professionals can contact TD1 to discuss a referral. Start with a brief outline and a way for us to get back to you. Please avoid sending sensitive personal details through the website form.

We will talk about what you need, whether Stepping Stones is the right fit and how to make sessions comfortable and accessible. Tell us about communication preferences, sensory needs or anything that makes attending difficult.

Where helpful, and with your knowledge and agreement wherever possible, we can involve family members or work alongside school and other services.

Part of a wider partnership

TD1 delivers Stepping Stones locally as part of the Scottish Borders Stepping Stones Partnership. It provides youth work support, rather than counselling or a clinical service. It can sit alongside other help and support you to reach specialist services when needed.