COMPASS {COUNSELLING ON MERSEYSIDE - PASTORAL AND SUPPORTING SERVICE} is a UK-based charity dedicated to providing mental health support and counselling services primarily to the community of Merseyside. Registered under charity number 700335, Compass has been operating for over 46 years, offering accessible mental health care and training to local individuals and organizations.

History and Mission

Established to serve the people of Merseyside, Compass has a longstanding commitment to mental health and wellbeing. The organization functions as a community counselling service that relies largely on donations and grant funding. Its foundational mission is to deliver pastoral and supportive counselling services to individuals who may not have access to NHS-funded care, offering an alternative to private counselling.

Services

Compass offers a range of services aimed at promoting mental health:

• Community Counselling Service: At the core of Compass's work, this service provides confidential counselling relying on donations and grants to support those in need.

• Counselling for Employers: Compass supports local businesses and organizations by providing workplace counselling and wellbeing services tailored to employee needs.

• Training Programs: The charity has extensive experience in offering counselling training, from introductory taster sessions to qualifications. These training programs aim to build capacity in mental health support across the community.

• Bespoke Projects and Support: Compass undertakes specific projects aligned with its mission and offers tailored services for other charities, organizations, and businesses seeking support.

The organization also offers a block of four counselling sessions at a subsidized rate, making mental health support more affordable and accessible.

Funding and Partnerships

Compass does not receive NHS funding and depends heavily on donations from clients, local businesses, and the broader community. The charity actively seeks support from ethical companies that wish to contribute financially or in other supportive ways. In exchange, Compass provides recognition and promotes corporate social responsibility for its partners.

Recognition and Governance

The charity registration number 700335 confirms its official status and compliance with UK Charity Commission regulations. Compass maintains up-to-date reporting as a registered charity, ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations.

Community Impact

Over more than four decades, Compass has become an integral part of Merseyside’s mental health support landscape. It collaborates with other local services to adapt to the evolving needs of the community, continually striving to provide joined-up and coordinated mental health care.

This overview reflects Compass’s ongoing commitment to mental health in Merseyside through counselling, training, workplace wellbeing services, and community engagement.

[1] https://compasscounselling.org.uk [2] https://compasscounselling.org.uk/our-services-2/ [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/700335/full-print [4] https://www.lcvs.org.uk/compass-counselling-services-counsellor/ [5] https://www.instagram.com/compasscounsell/