A new service is aiming to improve access to emotional wellbeing support for children and young people in Powys.
Powys SPACE (Single Point of Access for Children's Emotional Wellbeing) was officially launched on Thursday, September 3, offering a single, coordinated pathway to advice, early help, and emotional support for children and young people aged 0 to 25 and their families.
The service acts as a multi-agency virtual front door, bringing together partners from education, health, social care, and support services to ensure families receive timely and appropriate support without the need to navigate multiple referral systems.
Councillor Sandra Davies, Powys County Council's cabinet member for future generations, said: "The launch of Powys SPACE is a significant step forward in the way we support the emotional health and wellbeing of children, young people, and families across our county.
"We know that navigating services can sometimes be confusing and that families often want help at an earlier stage.
"SPACE provides a single, easy-to-access route that brings organisations together, reduces duplication, and helps people get the right support first time."
Accessible through online referral forms, a public-facing webpage, and a dedicated telephone number, Powys SPACE aims to offer early access to advice and a more joined-up experience for families.
Both self-referrals and professional referrals feed into the same coordinated system.
Once a referral or enquiry is made, the SPACE team conducts a 'What Matters' conversation to understand the individual's needs and direct them to the most appropriate support.
Cllr Davies said: "By working in partnership and focusing on early intervention, we can make a real difference to the lives of children and young people, helping them build resilience, improve wellbeing, and access support before difficulties become more serious.
"I would like to thank all the partners and staff who have worked hard to develop this innovative service and make it available to families across Powys."
The development of Powys SPACE has been informed by work across Powys which identified the need for a simpler, more joined-up approach to emotional health and wellbeing support in the county.
The service builds on the principles of the Nyth/Nest framework and aims to ensure children and young people receive help before issues escalate.
Emergency, crisis, safeguarding, and CAMHS referral routes remain unchanged.
Those in urgent need are advised to call NHS 111 and select option 2, or dial 999 in an emergency.
Powys SPACE has been developed with support from the Welsh Government’s Regional Integration Fund, the Powys Regional Partnership Board, and the Start Well Board.
Share