‘For the first time, I felt seen’: Alyse shares impact of wellbeing support from Break
17 Jun 2026
Alyse, a care-experienced young person, has shared a powerful personal reflection on how Break's Emotional Wellbeing Service (EWS) helped her regulate her feelings, complete her degree, and return to university.
Alyse describes her experience as “fundamentally different” from previous mental health support, highlighting the importance of long-term, relationship-based care for young people with care experience.
The EWS supports young people aged 16–25 across Norfolk, Cambridge and Peterborough, offering flexible, trauma-informed support tailored to individual needs.
Reflecting on her journey, Alyse said: “For the first time, I have felt truly seen. Having consistent, long-term support has been the missing piece for me. The difference lies in the interpersonal relationships I have built with my therapists.”
Alyse explains that previous short-term therapy felt focused on managing symptoms, rather than understanding the deeper impact of her experiences growing up in care.
“My therapists did not treat me like a problem to be solved; they treated me like a person to be understood. Because of this consistent care, I have been able to regulate my emotions, complete my degree, and return to university. Having my experiences validated and my emotions cared for at this level has been life-changing.”
Her experience reflects the importance of consistent mental health support for care-experienced young people, particularly as national reforms to children’s social care continue to develop. While recent plans have highlighted the value of stable relationships, more recognition is needed around access to long-term, trauma-informed emotional wellbeing support.
The EWS is part of Break’s wider therapeutic offer and takes a relational, trauma-informed approach, recognising that traditional models of support do not always meet the needs of care-experienced young people. Sessions are flexible and designed around the individual, with support taking place not only in therapy rooms but also in everyday environments such as walks or informal settings, helping young people feel more comfortable.
Alyse said this flexibility made opening up easier: “It has not just been about sitting in an office; we have had the flexibility to go for a walk or grab a coffee, which helps me feel grounded and re-energised. Most importantly, I finally feel seen.
“The most significant thing I have learned is that I am not damaged or broken. I have learned to have my own back and that I am, in many ways, learning to parent myself.”
Alyse’s story highlights the transformative role of consistent, compassionate relationships in supporting young people who have experienced trauma.
Gail Atkins, Manager at Break Therapeutic Services said: “Alyse’s words powerfully capture what we aim to provide through our Emotional Wellbeing Service – a space where young people feel safe, understood and valued. We know that healing is not quick or linear, and that relationships are at the heart of meaningful support. Being alongside a young person consistently and without judgement can have a lifelong impact.”
Too often, young people who’ve been in care can fall through the cracks of NHS mental health services. If you can, please consider regular giving, from just £5 a month, to ensure Break can be there for young people when they really need, for as long as they need.