Free support for young people and families in West Oxfordshire
The rainbow beyond the storm
One in five children and young people in England has a probable mental health condition, and the wait for specialist help can be long. We're here while you wait, and for as long as you need us after that.
We're a West Oxfordshire charity started by two parents who'd been there themselves. Today we offer free therapy for young people aged 11+, drop-ins for young people, practical help for parents. Supporting those dealing with children and young people with mental health, anxiety, SEND, school refusal and access, benefits and housing, and WeGame, our inclusive gaming sessions. Everything we do is free - funded by donations and grants.
Our founders with representatives from Cottsway Housing Let us help you weather the storm
Young people
Free 1:1 therapy, and a drop-in every Thursday from 4 to 6pm. Somewhere safe to talk, where nobody will judge you.
Find out moreParents and families
Pop in on a Thursday for help with SEND, EHCPs, school, benefits or housing, or just for a cuppa and someone to listen.
Find out moreWeGame
Relaxed gaming sessions where young people can make friends and grow in confidence.
Find out moreMore than 200 young people supported
More than 200 young people have now come along to WeGame. It's free, you don't need a referral, and nobody is pushed to join in. It's a calm, friendly place for young people who find other activities hard, and for lots of families it's how they first find out about the rest of what we do.
"I wish we had found this earlier. G has never engaged with other young people like this."
Parent, WeGame Summer 2025Sofa in the Street
We know not every family can get to us, so we go to them. For Sofa in the Street, we put a sofa outside Witney Corn Exchange and invite people to sit down and talk. There's nothing to fill in and you don't need a referral.
At our last one, families could chat to child and adolescent therapists, parent support workers, occupational therapists, education specialists, psychologists, youth workers and speech and language therapists, all in one place, for free and without an appointment.
You'll also find us at community events across the area.
"We've been unable to come to a drop-in session and we are really desperate. Accessing all of these specialists in the street is incredible."
Parent, Sofa in the Street May 2026Come and see us
Carterton Family Centre, The Allandale Centre, Burford Road, Carterton OX18 3AA
- Mondays8:30am to 3:30pm: clinic appointments only
- Thursdays9am to 4pm: parent drop-in
- Thursdays4pm to 6pm: young people's drop-in
You don't need a referral for the drop-ins, just come along. In the school holidays you'll also find us at Witney Corn Exchange.
Founded by parents, for parents
We know how lonely it can feel when your child is struggling. Family and friends mean well, but sometimes you need to talk to people who've been through it too. If anyone will understand, it's us.