SUPPORTING YOUR YOUNG PERSON
Parenting and caring for young people can be one of life’s greatest joys, but it can also be one of its biggest challenges.
If you’re worried about your child, feeling overwhelmed, or simply don’t know where to turn, you’re not alone.
At TKO (Tal-KET-Out™), we believe that every young person deserves to feel heard, valued and understood—and so do the adults who care about them.
Our aim is to support positive conversations, build healthy relationships and help families find the right support when it’s needed.
What We Believe
● Every behaviour is communication.
● Young people need safe adults who listen without judgement.
● Strong relationships are built through trust, respect and honest conversations.
● Early intervention can prevent problems from becoming crises.
● Families deserve support, not blame.
How You Can Support Your Young Person
You don’t need to have all the answers.
Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is:
● Listen more than you speak.
● Stay calm during difficult conversations.
● Ask open questions.
● Avoid rushing to fix everything.
● Let your young person know they are loved and valued.
● Celebrate small achievements.
● Encourage healthy friendships and positive activities.
● Ask for help when you need it.
Conversation Starters
If you’re not sure how to begin, try asking:
● How has your day really been?
● What’s been on your mind lately?
● Is there anything worrying you?
● What makes you feel happiest?
● What do you wish adults understood about being your age?
● Is there anything I can do to support you today?
Remember
Listening is often more important than having the perfect response.
Topics We Encourage Families to Talk About.
Together we can have open, honest conversations about:
● Healthy relationships and boundaries
● Peer pressure
● Mental wellbeing
● Self-esteem and confidence
● Ketamine and substance awareness
● Vaping
● Alcohol
● Online safety and social media
● Bullying
● Exploitation and keeping safe
● Education, employment and future aspirations
WHEN MORE SUPPORT IS NEEDED
TKO is an early intervention community project.
We provive safe spaces for conversation, practical learning and early support. we are not a counselling, therapy medical or e service
If someone is in immediate danger, always call 999.
If you need urgent medical advice, contact NHS 111.
If a child or young person needs confidential support, they can contact Childline on 0800 1111.
Young people can also access free, confidential online emotional wellbeing support through Kooth.
If you or someone you know is struggling to cope or feeling overwhelmed, support is available through Samaritans on 116 123.
For information about drugs and their effects, visit Talk to Frank.
Working Together
We believe the best outcomes happen when families, schools, community organisations and young people work together.
No judgement.
No blame.
Just honest conversations, understanding and hope.
Our Promise
At TKO , we promise to:
● Treat everyone with dignity and respect.
● Listen without judgement.
● Create safe spaces for conversation.
● Encourage hope and positive choices.
● Signpost families to appropriate services where needed.
Because every young person deserves the opportunity to write their own story.