1. What is The Life Matters?

The Life Matters is a UK charity dedicated to the prevention of self-harm and suicide among children and young people.

We provide early intervention, self-healing programmes, and accredited training to support emotional wellbeing, resilience, and safe, connected relationships. Our work supports children, families, schools, and frontline professionals.

2. Who do you support?

We work with:

• Children and young people aged 8–18

• Parents, carers, and families

• Schools and educational settings

• Health, social care, and frontline professionals

Our approach is preventative and supportive, helping children both at risk and in early stages of emotional distress.

3. What support do you provide for young people?

We deliver one-to-one early intervention through our CPD-accredited A Child’s Voice 10-Week Self-Healing Programme.

The programme:

• Is trauma-informed and child-centred

• Focuses on emotional regulation, resilience, and connection

• Builds self-esteem and coping strategies

• Includes collaborative safety planning where appropriate

• Strengthens protective factors against self-harm and suicidal ideation

Our aim is to ensure every child feels heard, valued, and supported.

4. Is your service confidential?

Yes. Confidentiality is central to our practice.

However, if we believe a child or young person is at risk of significant harm, we are legally required to follow safeguarding procedures in line with UK statutory guidance.

Wherever possible, we involve the child or young person in this process to maintain trust and transparency.

5. Do you support parents and carers?

Yes. We take a whole-family approach.

Support for parents and carers includes:

• Involvement in elements of their child’s programme (where appropriate)

• Practical advice and strategies for managing emotional distress

• Guidance on communication and relationship-building

• Signposting to additional services when needed

We also offer a one-day A Child’s Voice training course for parents and carers who wish to deliver and support the 10-week programme at home.

Our goal is to empower families with confidence, understanding, and practical tools.

6. What training do you offer professionals?

We provide CPD-accredited training for schools and organisations, including:

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training

• Recognising early signs of abuse, neglect, and emotional distress

• Responding appropriately to disclosures

• Safeguarding responsibilities and referral pathways

• Creating safe and compliant environments

A Child’s Voice Programme Training

• Delivering the 10-week self-healing programme

• Recognising signs of self-harm and suicidal ideation

• Strengthening relational and trauma-informed practice

• Embedding reflective and emotionally attuned support

Our training ensures children are not only supported — but genuinely heard.

7. How do I refer a child or young person?

Referrals can be made by:

• Schools

• Social services and Early Help teams

• Healthcare professionals

• GP practices (via the Joy App service)

• Parents and carers

• Young people (self-referral where appropriate)

You can submit a referral through our website or contact our team directly. We aim to keep the process simple, responsive, and supportive.

8. Is there a cost?

Some of our specialist services and training programmes carry a fee.

However, we are committed to ensuring that cost does not become a barrier to accessing support. Please contact us to discuss funding options or partnership opportunities.

9. How can I support The Life Matters?

You can support us by:

• Making a donation

• Organising or taking part in fundraising

• Volunteering

• Partnering with us as a school or organisation

Every contribution helps us provide life-saving early intervention and emotional wellbeing support to more children and families.

10. What should I do if a child is in immediate danger?

If a child or young person is at immediate risk of harm:

• Call 999 immediately

• Contact your local authority children’s social care team

• Follow your organisation’s safeguarding procedures

If you are unsure, it is always safer to report a concern and seek professional advice.