For three decades, Off the Record has been a beacon of hope for children and young people facing mental health challenges in Croydon, Sutton, and Merton. As we celebrate 30 years since our founding, we take a moment to reflect on the journey, the impact, and the incredible people who have made this charity what it is today.

Honouring Our Founder, Karen

This milestone is particularly significant as we also mark the retirement of our founder, Karen. In 1994, Karen started Off the Record in a small basement office in Croydon, driven by a passion for providing high-quality mental health support. From those humble beginnings, the charity has grown into a vital service spanning three South West London boroughs, supporting thousands of young people each year by phone, video, in-person and through text based counselling support.

A counsellor herself, Karen’s vision has shaped Off the Record’s values—ensuring that every young person is heard, valued, and given the support they need to navigate life’s challenges. Many of those she first supported as children now have families of their own, a testament to the lasting impact of her work.

Memories from the Team

Now, with nearly 70 employees and a broad range of services, Off the Record continues to evolve while staying true to its core mission. Some key milestones include:

• 1997 - The launch of the BME Mental Health Outreach.
• 2000 - Young Persons Drug & Alcohol Services started at Off the Record.
• 2008 - Pilot Refugee counselling services established.
• 2013 - Initial launch of the online counselling platform - one of the first services in the UK. This ensured that the charity was able to respond swiftly during the pandemic as all services pivoted online.
• 2013 - Off the Record Sutton starts.
• 2017 - Pilot Off the Record Merton begins

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we also look to the future. Off The Record remains committed to expanding access to mental health support and ensuring that every young person feels seen, heard, and supported. Karen’s legacy will live on through our ongoing work, the passionate staff who carry forward her mission, and the countless young lives that will continue to be transformed.

We thank Karen for her unwavering dedication and leadership over the past 30 years. Her impact will be felt for generations to come.

Here’s to 30 years of Off the Record—and to the many more ahead! #OTR30Years