Ottery Olders Headlight
A safe, friendly space for young people aged 18-25 experiencing emotional and mental health challenges
What is Headlight Peer Support?
Welcome to our senior peer support group for young adults aged 18-25. This is an inclusive, confidential, and safe space for like-minded people to connect. Together we discuss and learn about mental health challenges, share experiences, build confidence, develop life skills, and form genuine friendships. You’re not alone here, your voice matters, and growth happens together. Supported by your peers, you are welcomed by our lovely volunteers as well as the mental health support worker and the group facilitator, who understand and respect your journey forward.
We like to create an inclusive, fun, no-pressure environment where everyone is respected and listened to. There’s no expectation to talk or share at first if you are not ready, you can join in as much or as little as feels right for you. However, the more you put into sessions the more you will get out of it.
Sessions are fun, friendly, confidential, and supportive, with activities, food, and time to chill out together. Most importantly, you’ll be surrounded by people who understand that mental health matters and that no one has to face things alone.
Our sessions are delivered on themes such as:
- Building self-esteem
- Learning social skills
- Understanding sleep and emotions
- Developing healthy relationships
- Discovering self-awareness and wellbeing
We also address difficult subjects in a safe and supportive way, including stress, depression, anxiety, self-harm, eating disorders and suicidal thoughts.
What is 1-2-1 Mentoring?
Our 1-2-1 mentoring service is an optional service for young people who are already part of our peer support groups. It provides personalised support alongside the group sessions they attend.
Every young person registered in a peer support group is paired with a dedicated mental health support worker who creates an individualised action plan with them. This plan focuses on goals such as better managing mental health, developing skills and confidence, and setting targets around education, volunteering, and employment.
The mental health support worker regularly checks in to provide guidance, remind them about upcoming group sessions, and help them work towards their goals. These 1-2-1 mentoring sessions are 45 minutes long and take place at the same centre where we hold our group sessions. This ongoing support is tailored to what each young person needs.
Discovery Days
Discovery Days are special days away, held once or twice per year from our normal environment, often taking us into nature and trying new experiences. These days are specifically designed to challenge, increase resilience and build confidence for other areas of a young persons life, they are a fantastic way to build meaningful connections with peers and the group as a whole.
Discovery Days might include:
- Forest School activities
- Outdoor adventures
- Foraging sessions
- Art workshops
- Volunteering experiences
These are fun, hands-on days where young people will work together as a team, try something new, relax, and above all have a great time! Young people need to be registered with one of our peer support groups to take part in Discovery Days.
Meet the Ottery Team
Our Ottery team are experienced and friendly mental health support workers and volunteers who create a safe, welcoming environment where you can be yourself and get the help you need.
Want to know more about our staff? Visit our staff page to learn about the wider Action East Devon team.
Angela Lloyd
Wellbeing Worker
Jenny Kim
Wellbeing Worker
Lorraine Hansford
Youth Volunteer
Marion Saunders
Youth Volunteer
What We Do In Group Sessions
Our peer support groups meet fortnightly in a welcoming, no-pressure environment where everyone is respected and heard. You’re never expected to share before you’re ready — participation is entirely at your own pace.
Each session blends creative activities, shared meals, and relaxed social time in a confidential, supportive setting. Whether we’re making art, trying new recipes, or simply spending time together, you’ll be among people who genuinely understand that mental health matters and that no one should face challenges alone.
Those who’ve been part of Headlight tell us they’ve made genuine friendships, felt truly listened to, and discovered a safe space to be themselves. Many have grown in confidence and learned practical tools to help them cope with their mental health.
When & Where
When: Wednesdays, 6-8pm (sessions run on alternate weeks)
Where: The Station Youth Centre, Mill Street, Ottery Saint Mary, EX11 1AH
Age Group: 18-25 years old (for young people in secondary school and beyond)
The Station Youth Centre provides a large, open space where young people feel comfortable and relaxed for our group sessions. It’s easy to find, there is free parking outside, and includes a private room for 1-2-1 mentoring. Overall The Station offers a welcoming space where young people feel at ease.
