This year has seen 348 children and young people referred to CHUMS, similar to last year’s number. This is the first year since 2000 that referral numbers have stayed the same. It can on occasions still be difficult to cope with such a large number of children referred and we have had to introduce a short waiting list. We have however, recently trained another 8 volunteers to undertake individual support which will be very helpful in the forthcoming year. Referral numbers do not include parents/carers, extended family or friends who may also be offered support from CHUMS as well as being signposted to more appropriate agencies. The latter half of the year has seen referrals increase on a month by month basis.

From April 2006 referrals made by professionals will have to be made on a referral form to lessen the time spent following up inappropriate referrals.