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NSPCC’s Childline is today launching an app said to be the first to provide counselling to young people directly through their smartphone.
Invented by four teenagers who wanted to use technology to address the urgent need for confidential support among young people, the 'For Me' app is free to download in the UK and Channel Islands and has been specifically designed for discreet usage.
"Our initial ideas for the app came about during a school lesson. I hope it will really make a difference to people our age who are struggling," said Laura Hindle, co-creator of the app.
The app utilises all of Childline’s online services - from the 1-2-1 chat function with a counsellor, the 'Ask Sam' problem pages and entrance to a private locker, in which is a daily mood tracker and personal journal.
Childline was created by Dame Esther Rantzen 30 years ago and was reliant upon the use of public telephone boxes across the country to provide a safe way for children to communicate with support services. With technological developments, the methods of communication have widened the availability of support services. Last year, 1.8 million sessions on the Childline website were conducted via mobile devices.
Funded by Barclays, the free app is now available on the iOS App Store, with a version for Android phones expected "soon."
The development comes as tech companies invest more money into support services. Facebook recently implemented strategies to try to prevent self-harm and suicide. Artificial intelligence systems can use algorithms to identify text suggesting a person is struggling. These algorithms are trained using posts previously identified as containing language of those at risk and are currently being trialled in the United States. This followed a similar initiative on Instagram.
Even workplace messaging services, such as Slack, are offering options for direct contact with therapy services. The Slack app directory has more than 400 apps, including TalkLife Connect, an online therapy platform based around instant messaging.
With the movement of social support services into the tech industry, this shows a marked trend of trying to bring the mental health conversation to a widening generation of consumers.
Childline is available for young people online and on the phone at any time. As well as the new app, young people can ring Childline on 0800 1111 or visit their website for help and support.
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
