A dedicated Wirral-based community interest company is significantly expanding its provision of free mental health support for local families in response to overwhelming demand. Tiny Tools for Big Feelings has announced a comprehensive new schedule of therapeutic courses and sessions for 2026, specifically designed to help children and their parents navigate emotional challenges and build lasting resilience.
Responding to Community Need
The expansion follows what director Carly Openshaw describes as "incredible" feedback from families who have participated in the organisation's initial programmes since its launch in September 2025. The CIC was established to address what Ms Openshaw identified as significant gaps in existing mental health support networks, particularly for younger age groups.
"Since launching the CIC, the demand for support has been overwhelming as more and more children and parents are struggling with mental health," explains Ms Openshaw, a child mental health expert. "It's so important that we address this as early on as possible."
Structured Support in Secure Settings
The 2026 programme maintains the organisation's commitment to small, secure group settings where participants feel comfortable sharing their experiences. These carefully structured environments are designed to encourage personal progress while providing practical skills rooted in trauma-informed coaching approaches.
The schedule offers specialist groups tailored to specific needs:
- Therapeutic art sessions for children on Mondays
- Targeted anxiety groups on Fridays
- Parent skill-building courses on Wednesdays
- One-to-one support sessions every Tuesday with flexible timing
Specialist Workshops and Accessibility
A particular highlight of the expanded programme is a workshop for women focusing on ADHD, burnout and hormonal wellbeing, scheduled for late January at The Quirky Community Hub in Hoylake. While most sessions remain free through the CIC's fundraising efforts, this women's support group requires a small nominal fee.
The organisation emphasises that all its creative and therapeutic approaches are specifically tailored to meet the developmental needs of different age groups, from young children through to adults. By providing these accessible resources, Tiny Tools for Big Feelings continues its mission to make emotional wellbeing a priority for everyone across the Wirral region.
Building Confidence and Managing Anxiety
At the heart of the expanded service is the belief that providing children with appropriate emotional tools early in life is essential for building confidence and developing healthy ways to manage anxiety. The programme focuses on making nervous systems feel safer and regulating intense emotions through practical, accessible techniques.
This latest initiative represents both a response to community need and a reinforcement of the vital role the organisation plays in supporting local families. For those seeking a safe space to grow and heal, these structured sessions offer expert-led support within the local community.
