10/04/2026
We couldn't be more proud of Shaffrina and Paul 😎
Two youth counsellors have been recognised with Mayor’s Honour Awards for their unwavering dedication to improving young people’s mental health across Wokingham Borough.
Paul Cassidy and Shaffrina Rogers both received the award in recognition of the life-changing support they provide to local young people and families.
Paul, founder of ARC Counselling, was praised for strengthening mental‑health pathways and ensuring that no young person is left to struggle alone. Through strong partnerships and persistent advocacy, Paul has helped thousands of young people access free and timely counselling.
On achieving the award, Paul said: “After more than 20 years at ARC, this recognition means a great deal. Over that time, I’ve seen how powerful it can be when people are given the space to talk and the support to make sense of what they’re going through.”
Shaffrina, also from ARC Counselling, was nominated for her exceptional dedication to supporting young people’s mental health across Wokingham Borough. She was praised by families, schools and community partners as a “steady, reassuring presence who always puts young people first”.
She said: “I am super excited to have received this award. It means a lot, not just to me but for all the young people we work with. Supporting young people has been a lifetime passion of mine. Young people are fantastic, vibrant and full of energy. I am hoping that the award will highlight the essential and necessary work for our young people.”
ARC Counselling is a local charity providing free counselling for children and young people, alongside low‑cost support for adults across Wokingham Borough.
