at Kooth and Qwell’s forums: Safe peer support
When someone is struggling with their mental health or feeling isolated, one of the most powerful things they can experience is a sense of connection. Kooth and Qwell’s forums offer exactly that, with 22,695 users viewing the forums, articles and comments, and an average of 223 submissions every single day. Our forums are a safe, anonymous and supportive space where users can share experiences, ask questions, and hear from others who may be going through something similar.
Moderated, anonymous and inclusive
Every forum is fully pre-moderated by our professionally trained team to ensure content is safe, appropriate, and in line with community boundaries, safeguarding protocols, and legal standards, including the Online Safety Act.
Content is also grouped by age, so service users only see posts relevant to their age range. Live forums are available for under-18s and are all pre-moderated. Forums are inclusive, with dedicated categories that allow users to find content most helpful to them or to help others on topics they feel close to.
Some content is restricted across all age groups. This is to protect our community from triggering, graphic or inappropriate content. If a submission can't be published, the user always receives a message explaining why and encouraging them to resubmit.
Anonymity and pre-moderation remain central, helping anyone who uses the boards share openly and safely.
Peer support that complements professional help
While forums can work alongside one-to-one support, for some, they’re the only space they need. People who access the forums can freely explore feelings, ideas or experiences, often discovering they’re not alone. For many, reading or posting in forums is their first step on their Kooth or Qwell journey. Because they’re available 24/7, forums can also be a vital source of support outside of typical service hours, especially during evenings or weekends when someone might need connection the most.
There’s no pressure to contribute. Some users post and comment daily, others prefer simply reading. Submitting articles or creative writing is a popular way to express thoughts and connect with others.
The forums cover a wide range of wellbeing and mental health themes, like anxiety, sleep, identity, relationships, bullying, and exam stress. People in this space offer each other genuine support, encouragement, and shared understanding. Sometimes, just a simple "thank you" can mean a great deal.
“I love the chat and forum features. It helps me express what I'm feeling without being judged.” Young person using Kooth forums.
Why does this matter to you?
For professionals working with young people, whether in schools, healthcare, local authorities or safeguarding, Kooth’s discussion boards show how a safe, supportive digital space can help young people feel seen and supported, often in ways that complement existing services.
This is just one part of Kooth’s holistic support model and a powerful example of how young people actively engage with their mental health in their own time, on their own terms.
