The As You Are Centre is a low-cost service providing counselling for clients suffering from stress, depression or anxiety – and who are on little or no income – in East and West Sussex.

The centre previously received money from local councils and the Tudor Trust, but the last six bids have been unsuccessful and it will have to close in January if funding cannot be found.

Limited funding

"It has always been our aim to develop a service truly accessible to all," said manager Nicky Hitchcock.

"Our client group demonstrates that we have succeeded in this aim, with our clients ranging from 10 to 85 years old, and we have both men and women who use the service.

"However, we have recently discovered that our accessible-to-all policy limits our options for funding.

"With many places not open to funding generic counselling, we are struggling to find suitable funders."

Long-term counselling

Mrs Hitchcock estimated £37,500 was needed to keep the service running as it was, with 21 counsellors offering support to about 90 clients a week.

The centre provides treatment to those who do not fit into specialised counselling services, but cannot afford private practitioners.

It also offers long-term counselling for those whose needs cannot be met by the limited number of sessions normally provided on the NHS.

"We offer up to 24 sessions, giving clients an opportunity to work on deep and complex issues," said Mrs Hitchcock.

Anyone who thinks they may be able to help the centre can call Mrs Hitchcock on 07952 754859, visit www.asyouarecentre.co.uk – or write to The As You Are Centre Limited, The Corner House, 45 Southwick Street, Southwick, West Sussex, BN42 4TH.

For the full story see this week's Shoreham Herald (November 27).

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