Published Tuesday 15 August 2023 at 15:54
Help and support is available for anyone in Blackburn with Darwen who doesn’t get the exam results they expected, or who changes their mind about what to do next.
A-level and BTEC results are published this Thursday 17 August, with GCSE results the following Thursday, 24 August.
It’s a tense time for anyone who’s waiting for their results. Blackburn with Darwen Council wants to let young people know that help is there waiting for anyone who needs it, should they not get their anticipated results or change their mind about their next steps.
The New Directions service provides free and impartial advice and guidance on careers, training and further education. The team can also support with applications and CVs.
Contact the New Directions team by calling (01254) 666424 or emailing newdirections@blackburn.gov.uk. The service can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram by searching ‘New Directions’.
Coun Julie Gunn, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said:
Firstly, I would like to say a huge congratulations to all of Blackburn with Darwen’s students who are collecting exam results over the next couple of weeks. I hope they are what you’re hoping for and the results you need to take you on to the next stage.
If they aren’t, the first thing to remember is not to panic. Keep calm and reach out for advice on what courses of study are available to you and how to go about changing your options. Firstly, talk to your school or college, and the education provider you were planning to go to.
And remember our New Directions Service is there for you should you need their advice. They’re on hand with all of the latest information on further study, training and employment, and can help you to make a new plan, if that’s what you need.
The National Careers Service is also offering free and impartial advice for all students receiving their results. Visit the National Careers Service website or call 0800 100 900.
Jo Siddle, the Council’s Strategic Director for Children & Young People, added:
It’s not that long ago that my own family were collecting their exam results, so I can understand what our young people and their families are feeling right now. It can be a stressful time, but it’s important to remember that if you don’t get the results you were expecting, there are other options.
There is also a lot of support available for anyone whose mental wellbeing is affected around results days. Please don’t suffer in silence, reach out for help.
The Kooth.com app is free to download and has resources offering students mental health support.
Mental health support is available through the following organisations:
- Visit the YoungMinds | Mental Health Charity For Children And Young People or Text YM to 85258
- Visit the Childline website, call 0800 1111 or visit their exam results support page
- Students can call and ask for an emergency appointment through their GP surgery or call NHS 111.