How a UWTSD Applied Psychology graduate is helping young people in Ceredigion
After studying BSc Applied Psychology, Jemma King secured a role with Ceredigion-based youth charity Area 43 which supports young people with their mental health and wellbeing by offering them a space to socialise and seek advice.
Jemma is the Services Manager at Area 43’s centre known as Depot in Cardigan, west Wales. It has a café including an event and meeting area providing members of the community ages 14 to 25 with a safe space to be themselves and feel heard.
Depot, which has welcomed visits by UK Youth Mental Health Ambassador Dr Alex George, is shaped by the feedback of the young people who visit, which is essential in making them feel empowered and supported.
When we caught up with Jemma, here’s what she had to say about her current role and how her course helped her decide on her career path:
Rewarding experience
“A part of my role is to lend an impartial and empathetic ear to those who come through our doors.
“Now more than ever, young people are experiencing stress, social anxiety, and lack of self-esteem. At Depot, we aim to help these young people find their way by problem-solving with them, signposting, and often referring to the free counselling services available on-site.
“What I enjoy most about my role is seeing the journey that those using our facilities go on to become confident and optimistic individuals who realise they can make changes. In Depot, they have a place to make new friends and find a sense of belonging.
“There are many people that when I describe my place of work, say they wish they had found somewhere like this when they were younger. It’s a very rewarding role and Depot is an incredible facility for the young community.”
Finding my path
“I always knew I wanted to help people to understand the reasons for their actions. Whilst studying Applied Psychology at UWTSD, the variety of modules we covered helped me find my path.
I had a great interest in learning about the development of young minds, particularly how thoughts and behaviours are influenced by brain chemistry. Studying this has helped me in my current role to be compassionate and understanding of young people and what challenges they may be facing.
I hope in the future to study for a master’s degree in psychotherapy to provide in-depth support and advice to young people as I believe early interventions are key, and I want to be a part of the process in helping them seek the support they need early on.”
Further Information
Mared Anthony
Communications and PR Officer: Alumni Relations
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: mared.anthony@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: +447482256996