I turned to Extern’s Youth Engagement Service after a traumatic experience in my life. From the very beginning Extern gave me a safe space to discuss my feelings; they helped me find coping mechanisms and how to understand and deal with my triggers.

The advice and support they gave me was amazing. Now I don’t let the trauma I experienced control me and I’m less stressed and anxious in social situations.

With Extern it’s about the little things too – my most special memory was when one of the team brought me a bag of treats and some mindfulness activities to keep me busy during lockdown. It cheered me up so much when I was feeling low.

When I was being supported by Extern I always felt like I could open up in confidence and express how I was feeling without fear of being judged. They were there for me when I needed them most.

Cara, Bangor Youth Engagement Service (YES)