I joined relate in 2002 and trained to become a relationship counsellor . I subsequently went on to undergo further training to work with families and young people and set up my own private practice as a relate licenced counsellor in Brighouse.

As a rough estimate I have probably undertaken conservatively 10,000 client hours during that time before deciding to retire on April 1st this year,just before my 60th birthday .

I feel passionately about the work relate does.It relies on dedicated people who self fund to undertake rigorous training and gain qualifications to become therapists .Often not their primary job .

The demand for relate services has never been greater.Some relationships have been increasingly under strain during Covid ,not to mention the increased financial pressures with the cost of living and the increase in domestic abuse .

But therapy isn’t free and subsides are few and far between . On average clients need around 6 sessions costing a minimum of £300. This can be prohibitive for many people .

I would like to raise as much money as I can to enable relate cross pennine to offer reduced rate sessions for people who need it . Working with couples early who need support , helps to heal relationships , keep families together and ensures children and young people grow up in a healthy happy environment , learning how to develop positive loving relationships when they become adults .

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