Amber Project

Self-harm is often hidden & misunderstood yet is a growing problem & is one of the top 4 reasons why children contacted ChildLine last year. In our work in Cardiff we are seeing a year on year increase in young people who present for help.

Self-harm can take many different forms including cutting, burning, self-poisoning, disordered eating & risk taking. It is a manifestation of emotional pain with many young people hurting themselves to mask the distress they are experiencing. The reasons that lead to self-harm vary & are often due to a complex set of circumstances including academic pressure, bullying, family breakdown, bereavement, abuse, problems relating to sexuality, race, culture or religion, anxiety, low self-esteem & feelings of isolation.

The Amber Project provides support to young people in a number of ways through theatre workshops (including the production of an annual pantomime in December), which helps the young people to explore issues relating to self-harm through drama, creative workshops (crafts, hand drumming, creative writing, aromatherapy & music), counselling & one to one support. Approximately 40-50 young people a week are supported by the project.