REFLECT: new text messaging service launches for young people in MK

REFLECT is the new service that replaces Kooth, the digital wellbeing service for young people that closed on 20 February. 

Here's everything you need to know:
 

What is REFLECT?

REFLECT is a free, confidential and 24/7 text support service for young people in Milton Keynes who need advice or help. It's delivered by trained volunteers and clinicians who are available around the clock to listen and support anyone who is feeling anxious, lonely, overwhelmed or not quite themselves. It is part of the wider network of Shout services across the UK.

How does REFLECT work?

To start a conversation:

• Text (please don’t WhatsApp!) the word reflect (upper or lower case) to 85258.
• The service is free and anonymous.
• It does not show up on phone bills.

After sending the first message, you'll receive four automated text messages before being connected to a trained volunteer. They aim to connect young people in greatest need within five minutes all others in 30 mins. At busy times it can take longer.

The volunteer will introduce themselves over text and ask the texter to share a bit more about how they are feeling. They will only need to share what they feel comfortable sharing - the volunteer will listen without judgement. Conversations tend to last up to one hour.

Will I be charged to use REFLECT?

No. It's free to text from all major UK networks: EE, O2, Three and Vodafone. These also include BT Mobile, Tesco Mobile, Virgin Mobile, iD Mobile, Sky, Telecom Plus, Lebara and GiffGaff.

Some Android phones, including the Samsung Galaxy, may issue a warning that you will be charged for sending a message. Provided you are on one of the networks listed above, this warning is incorrect and you will not be charged.

Why use REFLECT?

The goal of the conversation through reflect is to help texters reach a place of calm, with a plan of how to support themselves going forwards. As well as listening, volunteers may provide further resources or tools to help get them more expert support. The conversation will only end when the volunteer is sure the texter is calm and feeling better.

Reflect can help with issues such as:

• Anxiety
• Bullying
• Depression
• Loneliness or isolation
• Money worries
• Relationship problems
• Self-harm
• Stress
• Suicidal thoughts or feelings

Who is REFLECT for?

The service is focused on supporting young people aged 11-25. However, there's no age limit on who can use REFLECT across Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes.

How many times can I use REFLECT?

Reflect is a universal service and is open to all. The service can be used when feeling anxious, lonely, overwhelmed or if someone is not quite themselves. It is available 24/7.

However, the REFLECT service is not designed to offer a long term support. If someone does use reflect very frequently, the service will be in touch to manage the access of texters and highlight how they can receive more appropriate help. Please see below for details of a range of services for children & young people in Milton Keynes.

Is the REFLECT service safe?

There are a number of things in place to ensure the service is safe:

• Volunteers receive extensive training and their practice is overseen by a clinician
• Conversations where there is an indication of a higher risk are overseen by clinicians
• Where there are immediate concerns about risks to texter in their conversation, the service can also alert the emergency services in the local area.