Colchester Children’s Counselling, founded by 37-year-old Amanda Hitchin from Great Horkesley, took home the award for consumer service start-up of the year’ for its rapid growth and vital impact on mental health services in the community.
Amanda launched the service in 2022 after identifying a lack of private child-focused mental health support in the region.
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“I started the business in 2022 right after the pandemic,” she said.
“Having come from a background in education, I felt there was a lack of private services in the area that cater to children’s mental health. It was just me in the beginning, and I never thought we would grow this big.”
The practice began on North Hill in Colchester and quickly expanded.
It now boasts multiple therapy rooms, including a sensory space designed for psychotherapy, several specialist therapists, and even offers training placements for university students.
“This win is a great celebration of all of the hard work that all of our therapists have and continue to put into helping our clients navigate their mental health journey,” Amanda said.
“This win is a great celebration of all of the hard work that all of our therapist have and continue to put into focusing on helping our clients navigate their mental health journey. We have many exciting projects in the future and we look forward to bring more high quality mental health opportunities to the young people in Colchester and surrounding areas.”
The UK StartUp Awards, supported by Airwallex, Join Talent and V-Rum, recognise the most promising new businesses across ten UK regions.
The East of England is known for fostering entrepreneurship, with strong links to universities and growing tech, agri-tech, and health sectors.
Amanda was also named a Top 100 Female Entrepreneur by F:Entrepreneur for Small Business Britain earlier this year, with her work recognised at multiple events at the House of Lords.
All regional winners, including Colchester Children’s Counselling, will now go on to compete in the national finals at Ideas Fest in September dubbed the Glastonbury for entrepreneurs.
Amanda said she’s looking forward to the next stage.
She said: “I am very excited to be part of the national finals and to see all the other businesses doing the good work around the country.”