A GLOUCESTERSHIRE mental health charity is calling on the people of Lydney to help keep its life-changing counselling service going — by offering something as simple as a quiet room.

Listening Post, a well-established charity providing affordable, long-term counselling across the county, recently expanded its services into the Forest of Dean, including Lydney, Coleford and Cinderford.

The move followed a successful pilot that brought much-needed support to adults facing issues such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and trauma.

But the charity is now facing an unexpected funding gap — and without urgent help from the local community, its ability to continue delivering the service in Lydney could be in jeopardy.

Nicola Bird of Listening Post has issued a heartfelt appeal for support. She said: “I’m reaching out for help as patron of Listening Post, a local charity providing life-changing mental health support across Gloucestershire.”

“Listening Post offers long-term, affordable counselling for adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma and more — with no time limits and a truly person-centred, non-judgemental approach.”

“They’re facing unexpected costs for hiring a small, private space in Lydney – something that wasn’t included in their original funding. Without it, this crucial service could be at risk for people who desperately need it.”

Listening Post is now searching for a quiet, confidential room in Lydney that can be offered for just a few hours a week. It could be within a business, community centre, church or private home — anywhere that provides a safe and discreet environment for one-to-one counselling.

The charity's work is especially important in the Forest of Dean, where access to long-term mental health support can be limited.

Their non-judgemental, open-ended approach offers a rare opportunity for people to receive the support they need, for as long as they need it.