The Lowdown is a dedicated youth mental health charity based in Northamptonshire, offering free and confidential support to young people aged 8 to 25. At The Lowdown, we provide a comprehensive range of services designed to foster positive emotional health and wellbeing, all delivered by a team of fully trained professionals in a welcoming, confidential, and non-judgmental environment.
Our core services at The Lowdown include Counselling, a Mental Health & Wellbeing Drop-In, and Information & Guidance Drop-Ins. The Lowdown's counselling service offers young people aged 8-25 living within the NN1-NN7 postcode areas a safe space to explore challenges and make positive changes. Sessions are free, confidential, and person-centred, available face-to-face or remotely. For those aged 8-10, referrals for counselling can be made via www.servicesix.co.uk, with Northampton-based referrals then directed to us at The Lowdown.
The Lowdown's Mental Health & Wellbeing Drop-In, previously known as the Wellbeing Café, welcomes young people aged 8-25 and their parents/carers on Monday and Friday evenings between 4pm and 8pm. Our professional mental health workers are on hand to provide a safe space for conversation and active listening. You can simply drop in during these hours or book an appointment by calling 01604 634385 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) or 07985268134 (after 5:30pm).
For immediate practical support and a listening ear, The Lowdown's Information and Guidance Drop-in service is available. We offer validation for young people's experiences, help with mental health referral processes, and provide signposting to our services or other relevant organisations. We also offer advocacy to ensure young voices are heard. This service runs Monday and Friday from 1pm to 8pm, and Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 1pm to 6pm. Remote support is also available via phone or email at 07985 268134 (Call or Whatsapp) or dropin@thelowdownnorthampton.co.uk. You can pre-book appointments by calling 01604 634385. The Lowdown's Sexual Health drop-in is integrated within these services, providing pregnancy and STI testing, along with guidance, for 14-25 year olds.
In collaboration with Free2Talk, The Lowdown hosts weekly Youth Groups every Tuesday and Thursday evening for School Years 7-13 (4pm-5:30pm and 5:30pm-7pm) at our Lowdown Lounge on Kingswell Street (entrance via the car park). These free groups offer a fun, safe, and inclusive environment for young people to socialise and participate in various activities. For more details, email youthgroups@thelowdownnorthampton.co.uk.
Mindspace, held every Wednesday at The Lowdown, offers a calm and safe space for 11-18 year olds to explore emotional and personal wellbeing through activities like relaxation, mindfulness, self-care, and creativity. A full timetable is available on our website and social media.
