Resources and courses / Ask Spurgeons Anything

Ask Spurgeons Anything - Free parenting advice!

Ask Spurgeons Anything offers a free, 20-minute text-based chat between parents and a Family Support Worker about their teenager.

The teenage years can feel overwhelming for both young people and parents. You don't have to do it alone. 

We can't provide mental health help or crisis support (please contact our Counselling team or your GP for this) but our team can advise you on topics including:

- bullying 

- online safety

- exam stress

- behaviour

- family relationships

- puberty

- neurodiversity

- family separation. 

    Parent Support Engagement Lead Nicola

    Nicola has 4 children, and 10 grandchildren- some of whom are on the Autism spectrum and/or have ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.)

    Nicola has worked with parents for the last 10 years, one-to-one and in groups and is licensed to deliver the National Autistic Society Early Bird, Early Bird Plus and Teen Life courses.

    Family Support Practitioner Kim

    My name is Kim and I have been volunteering and working in the Spurgeons' Family Support Team for several years now. I am a parent of three amazing teenagers and have many years' experience as a primary school teacher. I also teach children yoga and mindfulness. More recently, I have trained to provide wellbeing coaching for children and teens.

    Family Practitioner Jo

    Hi, I'm Jo, a mum of 3 and a Family Practitioner here at Spurgeons. I am passionate about supporting attachment relationships because strong attachment help everyone thrive. Alongside my work at Spurgeons, I am also studying for an MSc in Psychology.

Book a session

Sign up, book your slot and we'll send you a little nudge before your session so you don't forget.

A graphic providing a list of the things we offer as part of ask a counsellor

Chat with a Family Support Worker through our live messaging service

From 11th- 14th May we will be offering free text-based chat with a Family Support Worker for parents or carers of a teenager. This is a chance to ask the questions you need answers to and get practical parenting advice from our team who really understand.   

Once bookings open and you've secured your 20-minute slot, you'll receive an email from Microsoft Teams with your session details and a unique link to join. We'll also send you a number - because we know you won't want to miss it!

When it’s time for your session, simply click the link to join our live messaging service. A Family Support Worker will be there to provide free support and guidance. You’re not alone - we’re here to help.

How Ask Spurgeons Anything works:

Pick your slot: Choose a date between 11-14 May that works for you.

Book in seconds: No referral, no waiting list. Just a simple form.

Turn up and text: An experienced Family Support Worker will be there, ready for you.

Do you need urgent help?

If someone’s life is at risk call 999 or go directly to A&E.

If you need urgent help for yourself or someone else, you can:

For more support from trained volunteers contact:

The Samaritans on 116 123

Or text Shout to 85258.

Click here if you would like to check out Spurgeons' other services.

Useful helplines and websites

While we take care to ensure that the organisations we signpost to provide high quality information and advice, we cannot take responsibility for any specific pieces of advice they may offer.

We encourage parents and carers to always explore the website of a linked service of organisation to understand who they are and what support they offer before engaging with them. 

Further support

If you were unable to speak to one of our family support workers through the Ask Spurgeons Anything service, there are plenty of support options and links to resources available.