University of Exeter and Towards Launch First Zero‑Wait High‑Street Mental Health Hub in Leeds

University of Exeter and Towards Launch First Zero‑Wait High‑Street Mental Health Hub in Leeds

(IN BRIEF) Towards, backed by the University of Exeter, has opened its first therapy hub on a Leeds high street, offering immediate, no‑wait options for online and face‑to‑face sessions. The Leeds site kicks off a broader UK rollout staffed by therapists trained through the new Towards Academy, developed by Exeter’s Cedar Create. This programme prioritizes practical skills and personal suitability over formal academic credentials, while providing financial support to trainees. Cedar’s Director, Professor Catherine Gallop, highlights the UK’s shortage of 2,000 therapists, and Cedar will also evaluate hub performance. Dr Sarah Bateup of Towards underscores the drive to improve therapy availability and consistency. Tim Rideout, CEO, stresses the mission to transform mental health access into an everyday service akin to optometry. Further hubs are slated to open through 2026.

(PRESS RELEASE) EXETER, 17-Jul-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — University of Exeter, in partnership with Towards, has opened its first high‑street therapy hub in Leeds, delivering immediate access to both in‑person and online mental health support with zero waiting lists. This launch marks the beginning of a nationwide rollout of hubs staffed by qualified and trainee therapists specializing in adult and youth services.

The Leeds centre is complemented by the Towards Academy—an innovative training initiative developed by the University of Exeter’s Cedar Create team. Designed to expand the therapy workforce beyond traditional academic routes, the programme emphasizes hands‑on training, personal aptitude, and financial assistance for participants. Trainees gain practical experience under the guidance of Cedar’s Applied Psychological Practice experts, with ongoing evaluation to enhance hub performance and client outcomes.

“There’s a critical shortfall of around 2,000 therapists in the UK,” notes Professor Catherine Gallop, Director of Cedar. “By equipping new entrants and upskilling existing practitioners, we aim to close this gap and continually refine the service model.” Cedar, one of the country’s foremost providers of evidence‑based therapy training, will also audit hub operations and advise on best practices.

Dr. Sarah Bateup, Towards Chief Clinical Officer, adds, “Therapy demand outstrips supply, and quality varies widely. Partnering with Exeter gives us the expertise needed to raise standards and broaden access.” Towards intends to replicate the Leeds model in multiple towns and cities through 2026, employing Academy‑trained therapists to make mental health support as routine and accessible as an optician’s visit.

“A fragmented system has left too many without care,” says Tim Rideout, Towards CEO. “Long searches for an available, affordable therapist are all too common—and often end in disappointment. We’re building a new, convenient, and effective pathway for everyone who needs help.”

Media Contact:

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SOURCE: University of Exeter