Thousands of Welsh pupils have received support from school-based counselling services, new figures show.

During the summer and autumn term 2009 and spring term 2010, just over 4,100 children and young people completed a course of counselling, thanks to the scheme. The main concerns raised were family issues, but counselling was also given relating to bereavement, eating disorders, bullying and relationships.

The Assembly government said feedback indicated that many of the pupils who have completed a course of counselling have shown improved attendance and increased confidence in the classroom. Teachers have also praised the valuable support offered by the scheme. DE.