Sandhurst Counselling Service to close by July 31

A local counselling charity, Sandhurst Counselling Service, announced it will close after 35 years of operation. The service has offered mental health support in Bracknell Forest since 1990. However, due to the loss of funding from Bracknell Forest Council, the charity will shut down by July 31. The council's funding accounted for about 40% of the charity's total budget. Charity chair Dave Percival expressed sadness over the closure. He understands the council's financial struggles but feels the loss will be devastating for the community. Many people rely on the charity for support in dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression. Percival highlighted that their integrative counselling approach helps individuals understand and cope with their emotions. Public health director Charlotte Pavitt explained that the funding was initially meant to be temporary. It was provided to address the rising mental health needs following the Covid pandemic. Moving forward, the council plans to focus on prevention and promoting overall mental well-being rather than offering individual clinical support.