About Us
Our Story
NESSie was founded by extended services managers within North Hertfordshire in 2015, and then funded by the North Herts DSPL (Delivering Special Provision Locally)* with a four year funding commitment to support schools with the increasing social, emotional and mental health difficulties of children and young people in the district. NESSie was initially set up as a four year project in response to high levels of need demonstrated by data published by Public Health.
During the start-up phase, NESSie completed research and data analysis asking schools and educational settings to outline their needs and values. NESSie has continued this research, encouraging feedback from families and young people that directly informs the development of the service. NESSie has now become a Community Interest Company, expanding across North Hertfordshire, Stevenage and North London, continuing to provide services much needed in the community.
NESSie employs a team part-time experienced staff including trainers, area coordinators, arts therapists, CYP IAPT therapists, counsellors and a systemic family practitioner in training.
NESSie has developed a network of quality-assured, affordable freelance counsellors and arts therapists who are available to work in local primary and secondary schools.
NESSie is governed by a Steering Group that includes headteachers and senior school staff from North Herts primary and secondary schools; staff from local authority services; and a parent.
Helping children and young people live their best lives
It is not uncommon for children to experience emotional and behavioural problems, which can affect their daily lives and relationships with others. Often this can be sparked by a life event or changes, such as bereavement, bullying or parent separation. It may be that the young person has a related physical illness or a developmental disability (which might include learning difficulties, autistic spectrum disorder or developmental delay).
We are a team of Arts therapists and IAPT counsellors who provide group and 1-1 therapy for children and young people. We also offer support and training for families, and supervision, training and support for staff.
