Children and young people’s mental health is the foundation for their learning, development and future prospects. Yet needs are rising faster than services can respond. Active referrals reached almost 1 million people in 2023/24, with over 100,000 of these waiting more than a year for professional support. For too many, help comes too late or not at all. Young people need trusted, immediate support while waiting, and early tools that prevent problems escalating. And that is what we provide.

stem4 runs 5 clinically grounded mental health apps which are free at the point of use, giving young people instant, anonymous support 24/7 for anxiety, low mood, self-harm urges and eating difficulties. Our apps are built with young people and we are also growing prevention through Clear Fear for Schools. This new programme embeds evidence-based anxiety support in school settings, with 8 out of 10 users reporting reduced anxiety symptoms and less need for professional help.