help and SUPPORT for all
YOU ARE HERE
It can be quite daunting trying to find the right resource for certain mental health issues online. That is why we have created this guide, so that you can find the right information for YOU.
In the special help section below, find advice about everything from ADHD to Over 50s to Violence, Abuse and Rape
general help
MentalHealth.org.uk
Mental Health Foundation
How to Talk to Your Doctor about Mental Health
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/gp-visit-guide
MIND
Telephone: 0300 123 3393 (9.00 am – 6 pm Mon – Fri) or text 86463.
Email: info@mind.org.uk
Side by Side (formerly Elefriends)
https://sidebyside.mind.org.uk
An online community, a place to be yourself, someone to talk to whenever, a safe and trusted place to be.
Rethink Mental Illness
Telephone: 0300 5000 927
(9.30 am – 4 pm Monday – Friday)
Email advice@rethink.org
Mental Health UK supports people affected by mental health problems including friends, family and carers.
“Working across the UK, we bring together experts from four national mental health charities to improve understanding and provide vital care.”
SANE
Provides emotional support, guidance and information to anyone affected by mental illness, including families, friends and carers.
Together UK
Services in parts of the UK (not locally) but involved in research, peer support and advocacy.
ORCHA App Library
The ORCHA App library is a place where accredited apps can be located, and among the many areas that those can support, there are some excellent apps to support Mental Health and Wellbeing. There are apps to help with Mindfulness e.g. Smiling Mind, apps for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy like Woebot and Wysa, and also for Suicide Prevention (Stay Alive, Distract). These are all available on the App Store or Google Play. The site has the benefit of showing the quality of the Professional Assurance, Data standards and also the Usability and Accessibility.
Dorset Health Information Video Library
Approximately 600 videos on many health conditions
Time to Talk Facebook Group
A private group for people who want to talk or share their experiences of mental health and anxiety in confidence and in a supportive and respectful environment.
Clic
Clic is an online peer support community run by Mental Health UK.
It is free and friendly. Features an online forum allowing users to connect with others, chat about how they are feeling and hosts a wealth of information, advice, tools, tips and resources.
There are also Q&A live video with mental health experts.
Monitored 24 hours a day to ensure it is secure and confidential.
Health Talk
Experiences on film of people talking about their health conditions including mental health.
The Mighty
Free online health community.
Also playlist of songs that have helped people with mental illness.
The Advocacy People
Independent advocacy support for mental health, NHS complaints, care and support, and children and young people.
Telephone: 0330 440 9000
Email: info@theadvocacypeople.org.uk
The Brain Charity
The Brain Charity offers emotional support, practical help and social activities to anyone with a neurological condition and to their family, friends and carers.
Our A-Z of neurological conditions lists over a hundred individual conditions, with basic medical information about them and links to support groups.
Our A-Z of conditions includes information about Autism, Dementia, Fibromyalgia, and Migraine and Cluster Headaches, as well as many other neurological conditions.
“Every Mind Matters has lots of expert advice and practical tips to help you stay on top of your mental wellbeing.”
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/
Overview, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment for different conditions. Includes some links and helpful videos.
Hub of Hope
Directory
Advice Local
Enter your postcode and the subject you need help with such as housing, benefits, immigration, disability and more.
Creative Wellness Hub
Learn a new skill or hobby, express yourself through creative pastimes, move forward towards healing and wellness.
“We are passionate about wellbeing, self care, lived experience and collaborative working. Excited about what we do through sharing knowledge, communication and most importantly support one another’s values, beliefs, attitudes and behaviours.”
Specific Help
Alcoholics Anonymous
www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Tel. 0800 9177 650
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Al-Anon
“…there for anyone whose life is or has been affected by someone else’s drinking”
Tel. 020 7403 0888
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Adfam
Support for families and carers of those abusing drugs or alcohol.
Tel. 020 3817 9410
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FRANK
“Honest information about drugs”
Helpline 0300 123 6600
Text 82111 and Live Chat (offline) 2 – 6pm 7 days a week or email frank@talktofrank.com
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Narcotics Anonymous
Tel. 0300 999 1212
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For those affected by other people’s gambling.
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Gamcare
National Gambling Helpline
0808 8020 133
Forum and chatrooms
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National Problem Gambling Clinic
NHS Servicce
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Alcohol Change
Factsheet on alcohol and relationships
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Counselling & Therapy for Addiction
The British Association of Anger Management
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For people committing domestic violence
Tel. 0808 802 4040
A confidential and anonymous helpline for anyone concerned about their violence and/or abuse towards a partner or ex-partner.
Anxiety UK
Text 0753741690,
Tel. 08444 775 774
Youth (13-20) 0330 606 1174
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Anxiety Alliance
National Autistic Society
Autism Helpline – 0808 800 4104
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Ambitious About Autism
www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk
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Autistic UK
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Autscape Conference
A conference by and for autistic people once a year.
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The Spectrum Magazine
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/the-spectrum
Magazine by and for those on the autism spectrum.
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The Curly Hair Project
https://thegirlwiththecurlyhair.co.uk/
“The Curly Hair Project is a social enterprise which supports people on the autistic spectrum and the people around them, founded by autistic author Alis Rowe. We use cool things like animated films, comic strips and diagrams to make our work interesting and easy to understand!”
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For parents and professionals
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Peer mentoring and support service for those with autism but without a learning disability aged 13+
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Autism Consultancy service for professionals (Sandy Teal)
https://www.sjtealconsultancy.com/
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Autism Success Formula.
Specialist Workplace consultancy
“We work not only with young people with autism, but with employers; coaching them how to manage and lead.
Make our Rights Reality
“Supporting your mental health as a young black person”
https://makeourrightsreality.org.uk/supporting-your-mental-health-as-young-black-person/
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Black and Asian Therapy Network
Includes a directory of counsellors and therapists
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Black Learning Achievement and Mental Health (BLAM) charity
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Blueprint for All
https://www.blueprintforall.org
(formally Stephan Lawrence Charitable Trust)
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Black Minds Matter UK
https://www.blackmindsmatteruk.com
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MAMA Youth Project
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Black Mental Health Alliance
https://blackmentalhealth.com/
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Black Lives Matter Resources (ACPA)
https://blacklivesmatter.com/resources
GYPSY, ROMA AND TRAVELLER
Traveller Movement
https://www.travellermovement.org.uk
info@travellermovement.org.uk
0207 607 2002
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Friends, Families & Travellers
https://www.gypsy-traveller.org
01273 234777
fft@gypsy-traveller.org
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Roma Support Group
https://www.romasupportgroup.org.uk
0794 908 9778
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One Call Away
Gypsy & Traveller Mental Health Support
Tel.077489 97617
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LGBT Traveller Pride Advice and Support for LGBTQ+ Gypsies, Roma & Travellers
https://www.lgbttravellerpride.com
Tel. 07395 355 066
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Travellers Advice Team
Legal advice and support if facing eviction.
https://www.communitylawpartnership.co.uk
0121 685 8677
CRUSE
Bereavement Counselling and more.
Tel. 0808 808 1677
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Child Death Helpline
http://childdeathhelpline.org.uk/
Tel. 0800 282986
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The Compassionate Friends
Supporting bereaved parents and their families.
Helpline 0345 123 2304
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SANDS (Stillbirth & Neonatal Death Society)
Tel. 020 7436 5881
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Griefchat
Includes online instant chat service, counselling.
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At a Loss
Helping the bereaved find support. Specialist help for men, young adults etc.
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Sue Ryder
Palliative, neurological and bereavement support.
Tel. 0808 164 4572
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Facing the Future
www.facingthefuturegroups.org/
A local group service for people bereaved by suicide run by Cruse Bereavement Care and Samaritans.
Helpline: 0844 477 9400 – Mon and Fri 9.30 – 5 pm, Tues, Wed, Thurs – 9.30 – 8 pm. Email: helpline@cruse.org.uk
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Support After Suicide Partnership (SASP)
www.supportaftersuicide.org.uk
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Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS)
Telephone helpline 9 am – 9 pm 0300 111 5065 every day.
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If U Care Share Foundation
Supporting families affected by Suicide
Helpline 0191 3875661,
Free, confidential and 24/7 text service. Text IUCS to 85258
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National Suicide Prevention Alliance
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Suicide Bereavement UK
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The Loss Foundation
Supports those who are bereaved because of cancer.
https://thelossfoundation.org/
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The Rosie Crane Trust
Supporting bereaved parents.
https://www.rosiecranetrust.org/
Petals Charity
Provides specialist counselling for those who have experienced baby loss.
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Cot death 24 hour helpline
Tel. 0808 164 3332
helpline@sands.org.uk
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Child Bereavement UK
https://www.childbereavementuk.org/
Helps when a child grieves or when a child dies.
Bipolar UK
Tel. 0333 323 3880
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Equilibrium – The Bipolar Foundation
International Bipolar Foundation
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Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
Bridgit support tool for carers
Bridgit allows you to explore free wellbeing, employment, finance and care resources, helps identify what services and community support are within your area. You can also build your own self-care plan and it also provides access to the first part of the carers assessment online.
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My Family Our Needs
https://www.myfamilyourneeds.co.uk/
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Care Choices
https://www.carechoices.co.uk/
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Carers Trust
Offers practical help and assistance to carers. You can search on their website for local carers services in your area. Tel. 0300 772 9600
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Carers UK:
provides information and support for carers, including information about benefits.
Helpline 0808 808 7777
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Carers Direct
https://www.carersdirect.org/about_us/
Help with finding a care assistant.
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Marie Curie
Offers information, advice and practical support to people living with any terminal illness and families. Tel. 0800 090 23 09
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Independent Age
Provides advice and information for older people, their families and carers. Tel. 0800 319 6789
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Revitalise
A UK wide charity providing short breaks and holidays (respite care) for disabled people and carers.
Tel. 0303 303 303 0145
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Carer’s Allowance Unit
www.gov.uk/carers-allowance-unit
For information on Carer’s Allowance and how to make a claim.
Tel. 0800 731 0297 Textphone 0800 731 0317
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Attendance Allowance
https://www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance
Free Helpline 0800 731 0317
Open 9.30 am – 3.30 pm
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Care Quality Commission (CQC)
National independent regulator of all health and social care services in England.
Tel. 03000 61 61 61
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Parent Carer Foundation
https://parentcarefoundationorg.co.uk/about
Provides a central voice for Parents and Carers of children and adults of all ages with SEN/complex learning/medical needs/all kinds of disabilities and mental health issues.
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Age Space
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MindEd – advice for older people and their carers
https://www.mindedforfamilies.org.uk/older-people
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Challenging Behaviour Foundation
British Acupuncture Council – Find an acupuncturist.
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Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists
Ask your Physiotherapist about Acupuncture
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Therapy Directory
Search for Complementary Therapists in your area
If you do not have the means to pay for counselling then some charities may be able to help such as BaD Company – The Brave and Determined Company, which is Shaftesbury based.
Support available nationally.
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British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
01455 883300
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British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists
01455 88 3300
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The Counselling Directory
www.counselling-directory.org.uk
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Free Psychotherapy Network
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Websites to help find the right therapy for you
https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-therapy
https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/types-of-therapy
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Hypnotherapy Directory
www.hypnotherapy-directory.org.uk
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Nutritionist Resource
www.nutritionist-resource.org.uk
Find a nutritionist
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Holistic Therapy Directory
http://www.therapy-directory.org.uk/
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NHS Practitioner Health
https://www.practitionerhealth.nhs.uk/support-services-access-to-therapy
Current range of support for all NHS staff.
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The Happiness Gap
https://www.thehappinessgap.co.uk
Intuitive happiness coaching
Wiltshire based and online too.
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Life Coach Directory
Dementia Connect
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/dementia-connect-support-line
Tel. 0333 150 3456
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National Dementia Helpline
Tel: 0333 150 3456
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Dementia UK
Call the Dementia Helpline for free on 0800 888 6678
helpline@dementiauk.org
info@dementiauk.org
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Dementia Support Forum
https://forum.alzheimers.org.uk/
Alzheimer’s Society online forum. The largest virtual support group for anyone affected by dementia. Open all hours, it is a growing community of over 7,000 people and is a safe place for people to ask advice, share information and join in discussions. Anyone can browse the information online but register to join the groups and ask questions.
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Playlist for Life – Music for Dementia
https://www.playlistforlife.org.uk/
“Discover the benefits of personal playlists and how to connect through music” Lots of information and free resources on the website.
Tel. 0141 404 0683
Depression UK
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Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
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The Blurt Foundation
“Increasing awareness and understanding of depression”
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“I had a Black Dog, His Name was Depression” Video
DLF – Living Made Easy – The Shaw Trust
https://livingmadeeasy.org.uk/
Guidance on products and adaptations for independent living.
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Disability Rights UK
A great range of factsheets on many aspects of living with a disability.
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Disability Horizons
https://disabilityhorizons.com
News, information, advice and products to buy
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Scope
Disability Equality Charity
Helpline 0808 800 3333
CHRONIC PAIN
Flippin’ Pain
https://www.flippinpain.co.uk/
Pain UK
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The British Pain Society
https://www.britishpainsociety.org/
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Action on Pain
http://www.action-on-pain.co.uk/
Pain Line 0345 603 1593 email: painline@action-on-pain.co.uk.
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Pain Concern support, advice and online forums.
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Live Well with Pain
https://livewellwithpain.co.uk/
Resources for people living with pain.
WheelPower
https://www.wheelpower.org.uk/
British Wheelchair Sport
Online exercise classes, Physical Activity Advisor, Free Resistance Bands.
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British Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Association
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Macmillan Cancer Support
Find the physical, financial and emotional cancer support that’s right for you.
Support Line: 0808 808 00 00.
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Cancer Research UK
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer
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Parkinson’s UK
Helpline 0808 800 0303.
https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/information-and-support/helpline-and-parkinsons-advisers
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Prostate Cancer Help
PCaSO
Prostate Cancer Support organisation. 01202 580 436
Prostate Cancer Helpline
0800 074 8383
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Mesothelioma Support
https://mesothelioma.net/mesothelioma-support/
Booklet on Mesothelioma – lanierlawfirm.com/
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Asthma + Lung UK
Helpline 0300 222 5800
email: helpline@ asthmaandlung.org.uk
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Arthritis Care
Helpline 0800 5200 520
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HEADSMART
Brain Tumours
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British Heart Foundation
Helpline 0800 802 1234
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Diabetes UK
Helpline 0345 123 2399
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RNID (Hearing Loss and Tinnitus)
Deafness, tinnitus and hearing loss.
Contact free, confidential Information Line:
Telephone 0808 808 0123
Text 07360 268 988
Email contact@rnid.org.uk
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The British Tinnitus Association
Helpline: 0800 018 0527
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The IBS Network
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Stroke Association
Helpline 0303 3033 100 – not 24 hours
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MENCAP
Learning disability
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RNIB – Blind and Partially Sighted
Helpline 0303 123 9999
Library of over 60,000 items to borrow – audiobooks, braille and giant print as well as accessible music.
Calibre Audio Library
Subscription-free service of unabridged audiobooks.
Living Paintings
Charity who design, create and publish tactile books.
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Sepsis
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Snowball App
Information on disabled friendly places of business and what disabled facilities are available.
https://company.snowball.community/
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Equality and Human Rights Commission
International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation
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First Person Plural
Charity now closed but legacy website with useful information and signposting.
Beat Eating Disorders (Beat)
www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk
Adult helpline: 0808 801 0677 help@beateatingdisorders.org.uk
Studentline: 0808 801 0811, studentline@beateatingdisorders.org.uk
Youthline: 0808 801 0711, fyp@beateatingdisorders.org.uk
Live 1-2-1 webchats are available
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TalkED (Anorexia & Bulimia Care)
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Overeaters Anonymous
0700 078 4985
Money and Pensions Service
Free and impartial advice about finances, Money guidance – 0800 138 7777
Pensions guidance – 0800 011 3797
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Citizens Advice
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/
General help and advice from the national organisation.
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NHS Guide to Care and Support Services
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/
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Stepchange Debt Charity
Advice and live chat available.
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Benefits and Work
Help for a small fee and information online.
https://benefitsandwork.co.uk/about/who-we-are
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Skills for care
www.employingpersonalassistants.co.uk
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Mental Health and Money Advice
www.mentalhealthandmoneyadvice.org/en/
Lots of useful information including about ‘Breathing Space‘ – help for those struggling whilst awaiting mental health treatment. Also see:
https://www.rethink.org/aboutus/what-we-do/mental-health-breathing-space/
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National Debt Line
0808 808 4000
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Money and Mental Health
https://www.moneyandmentalhealth.org/get-help/
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Christians Against Poverty
Help to get out of debt
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Advice Local
Money and Housing links
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Advice Now
Produces guides on how to win appeals on benefits such as PIP, WCA etc.
https://www.advicenow.org.uk/guides/how-win-pip-appeal
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Stop Loan Sharks
24/7 confidential helpline.
Tel. 0300 555 2222
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Financial Ombudsman Service
https://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/
Tel. 0800 023 4567
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Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman
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Shelter England
Emergency helpline 0808 800 4444
See website for other ways to get help if it isn’t an emergency.
https://england.shelter.org.uk/get_help
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Community Legal Advice
http://www.communitylegaladvice.org.uk/
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Shaw Trust
Supporting people into the workplace and improving their health and wellbeing; helping vulnerable young people build life skills.
Call 0300 30 33 111
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Evenbreak Career Hive
Help in getting work if you are mental health problems and/or are disabled.
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Covid Aid Support Community
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AbilityNet
At-home Free computer/tablets/smartphone support to older people and disabled people of all ages. Tel. 0300 180 0028 or fill in the form online.
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Maximus
https://www.maximusuk.co.uk/our-services/employability
Help to find work for those who have mental health problems, disability, leaving prison or who have just been out of work for a long time.
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Be Scam Wise
Advice from Trading Standards South West on how to spot, avoid and report scams. www.tssw.org.uk/scamwise
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National Asbestos Helpline
http://www.nationalasbestos.co.uk
Freephone 0800 116 4322
You could be entitled to financial support.
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Organ Donation
http://www.organdonation.nhs.uk
Tel. 0300 123 23 23
Text chat SMS 07860 034 343
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South Western Ambulance Service
http://www.swast.nhs.uk/get-in-touch
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Boots the Chemist Services
Malaria Prevention Service Travel Vaccinations & Health Advice Service
Find out more & book an appointment at www.boots.com/travelhealth
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Social Help
Hearing Voices Network
For people who hear voices, see visions or have other unusual perceptions.
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Understanding Voices
https://understandingvoices.com/about/
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Intervoice
NAPS – National Association for Premenstrual Syndrome
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Online Menopause Centre
http://onlinemenopausecentre.com
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Women’s Health Concern
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Society for Endocrinology
https://www.yourhormones.info/
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Daisy Network
Premature onset menopause (POI)
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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
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Endometriosis UK
Switchboard
https://switchboard.lgbt/about-us/
Support and helpline 0800 0119 100
hello@switchboard.lgbt
or chat facility online.
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Stonewall
Find Information and support near you.
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Intercom Trust
Help and Support community help, information and support in the South West.
Tel. 0800 612 3010,
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LGBT Foundation
Galop
LGBT+ Anti Abuse Charity
Tel. 0800 999 5428
email: help@galop.org.uk
If you’ve experienced hate crime, sexual violence or domestic abuse, we’re here for you. We also support lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer people who have had problems with the police or have questions about the criminal justice system.
Help for Employers and their employees
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Right Steps
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Articles to show what some employers have done:
https://www.bhliving.co.uk/2019/12/10/hall-woodhouse-mental-health/
OCD Action
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OCD UK
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Triumph Over Phobia (TOP UK)
OCD and Phobia Charity
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A Parent’s Guide to OCD
http://beyondocd.org/uploads/pdf/parents-guide.pdf
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Maternal OCD
The Silver Line
Helpline run by Age UK
For those aged over 55 Tel. 0800 4 70 80 90 – A 24 hour a day helpline
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Reengage
Telephone befriending and more.
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Age UK Telephone Friendship
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/services/befriending-services/sign-up-for-telephone-befriending/
For over 60s
Young Minds
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/
Free parents’ helpline with trained advisors who can talk to you about any aspect of your child’s mental health. 0808 802 5544, Mon-Fri 9.30 am to 4 pm
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The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust
Free resources and help for parents and professionals.
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Gingerbread
Charity supporting single parent families. Tel. 0808 802 0925
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Missing People
Helpline: call or text 116 000
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Salvation Army Family Tracing Service:
https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/family-tracing
Tel. 020 7367 4747
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Prisoners’ Families Helpline
Offenders’ Families Helpline: 0808 808 2003
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Action for Children Parent Talk
https://parents.actionforchildren.org.uk/
“Ask your question in the chat box and one of our parenting coaches will reply as soon as they are free.
We’re here to talk to parents and carers: 12:00-19:30 Monday & Thursday, 09:30-16:30 Tuesday & Wednesday, 09:30-16:00 Friday. We can talk about anything that supports family life, caring for children or managing your own wellbeing. Some parents get in touch to chat about their day or talk about things they can’t tell anyone else. Remember, we’re hard to shock. Between us, we’ve seen and heard every kind of parenting question, concern or worry – nothing fazes us.”
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Family Lives
https://www.familylives.org.uk/how-we-can-help/confidential-helpline/
“Family Lives offers a confidential and free* helpline service for families in England and Wales (previously known as Parentline). Tel. 0808 800 2222 for emotional support, information, advice and guidance on any aspect of parenting and family life. Helpline service is open 9am – 9pm, Monday to Friday and 10am – 3pm Saturday and Sunday.”
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Dad Info
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Contact
Support for families with disabled children.
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A Parent’s Guide to OCD
http://beyondocd.org/uploads/pdf/parents-guide.pdf
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Maternal OCD
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Acts Fast
Abused Children’s Trauma Support, Family Advice and Strategy Team (help for non-abusive parents, carers and their families)
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Minded for Families
https://mindedforfamilies.org.uk
For parents and carers, a free learning resource about the mental health of children, young people and older adults.
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Adfam
https://adfam.org.uk/help-for-families
Help for families of those affected by drug or alcohol abuse.
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National Family Mediation
Mediation Information and Assessment Meetings (MIAMS)
Tel. 0300 4000 636
Offers high-quality family mediation and support services to all families affected by relationship breakdown, divorce or separation.
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NSPCC –
Support and resources for parents.
http://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/
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Parent Carer Foundation
https://parentcarefoundationorg.co.uk/about
Parent Carer Foundation provides a central voice for Parents and Carers of children and adults of all ages with SEN/complex learning/medical needs/all kinds of disabilities and mental health issues.
Maternal Mental Health Alliance
www.maternalmentalhealthalliance.org
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PANDAS Foundation
Supports people affected by pre and postnatal depression.
Free Helpline: 0808 1961 776
Peer support community.
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Association for Post Natal Illness
Tel. 020 7386 0868
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APP – Action Postpartum Psychosis
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Birth Trauma Association
https://www.birthtraumaassociation.org.uk/
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Tommys
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Parents 1st
https://parents1st.org.uk/the-difference-peer-support-can-make
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Rainbow Trust
https://www.rainbowtrust.org.uk/parentsmatter
Supporting parents with a seriously ill child
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Mumsnet
https://www.mumsnet.com/Talk/feeling_depressed and other mumsnet Talk pages.
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Bliss
For babies born premature or sick
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National Childbirth Trust (NCT)
https://www.nct.org.uk/ Support Line: 0300 330 0700
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Best Beginnings
https://www.bestbeginnings.org.uk/
Simple, educational and interactive tools to support parents-to-be and new parents.
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Cry-sis
UK charity offering help and support to parents with babies who cry excessively or have sleeping problems.
CRY-SIS Helpline: 0800 448 0737 – 9 am – 10 pm seven days a week
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Nourish
https://www.thenourishapp.com/resources
A UK mental health and wellbeing app for mums. Created by a team of experts, the app provides a self-care toolkit and support team to give you instant moments of calm when you need it
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Perinatal Treatment
https://perinataltreatment.wordpress.com/parenting-resources-and-courses/
Free evidence-based mental health resources and courses website for new parents
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Healthier Together
https://what0-18.nhs.uk/popular-topics/mental-health/maternal-mental-health
Maternal mental health information
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Helping your baby
https://www.carryingmatters.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Build-a-happy-brain-dec-2019.pdf
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The Association for Infant Mental Health (AIMH)
https://aimh.uk/get-to-know-your-baby/
AIMH have developed a set of video resources for parents with newborns and expectant parents to help them bond with their baby and foster emotional well-being. The videos include guides on understanding and responding to the cues your baby is giving you.
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Baby Massage Videos
https://www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/baby-massage-videos
Short clips demonstrating how a baby can be soothed and relaxed through massage.
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Andy Mayers
Andy Mayers is a leading academic based at Bournemouth University in the field of Perinatal Mental Health. His very useful and informative website can be found here:
PTSD UK
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ASSIST Trauma Care
Offers support for people and families affected by a wide range of traumatic events. Email support via contact form on website.
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EMDR Association
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a treatment for PTSD.
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PTSD Resolution
For armed services, veterans and families.
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Talking 2 Minds
The Priory Group
Provides private outpatient and inpatient treatment. The website has good information on conditions etc. too. Nearest inpatient hospitals are Southampton and Bristol.
RESOURCES
Happiful
Useful website – Wellbeing A-Z, podcast, magazine, articles, find a therapist.
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Recover your Life
https://www.recoveryourlife.com/
A Support Community focusing on self harm, but also helps those with eating disorders, mental health difficulties and abuse sufferers.
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Action for Happiness
https://actionforhappiness.org/
10 keys for happier living
Monthly Action Calendar
App, Groups, Events, Online lectures.
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Living Life to the Full
Teaches a range of life skills based on the CBT approach aiming to improve wellbeing and resilience.
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The Compassionate Mind Foundation
https://www.compassionatemind.co.uk
Resources, Guided Practice and Training
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Minds Anonymous
“A safe space to share mental health stories anonymously.”
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Aurora comfort weighted blankets
A business started locally in Sturminster Newton.
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Apps available on Google Play and/or Appstore.
As recommended in the past by various trusted organisations..
(some have websites to explain use – click to see these).
BetterSleep
Select sounds and melodies that you like and combine them to create a mix. 50 high quality ambient sounds…Use your own favourite as alarm to wake up slowly.
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Allows you to select the area you want to focus on, from reducing anxiety to falling asleep. The app walks you through your recommended breathing exercises and sends you daily reminders to practice your breathing.
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How to look at problems in a different way, turn negative thoughts into positive ones, and improve your mental wellbeing.
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Create music to help express complex feelings….a personal musical journal to help you with your emotional and mental health.
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Trusted digital lifeline for those who self harm and feel suicidal.
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This app, developed by GPs and a group of year 6 children aims to teach 8-12 year olds how to make healthy choices for their minds and body. It uses a game where children are given a pet dragon to look after to build confidence and educate children about issues such as mental health and bullying.
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Fear Tools
Anxiety Kit …Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Phobias, and Social Anxiety Disorder.
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Uses the principles of cognitive behaviour therapy to help improve thoughts and feelings, self-esteem and self-confidence.
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Brings you effective tools and programs to take control of your emotional well-being.
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How to meditate, live mindfully and more.
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Mindshift CBT – Anxiety Relief
Designed to help teens and young dults cope with anxiety.
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Mood Gym
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Mood Tools
Deression Aid…Thought Diary, Activities, Safety Plan, information, Test (PHQ-9 depression questionnaire), You Tube videos of guided meditations and talks.
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MoodoMeter
Developed by an NHS Foundation Trust, and approved by NHS Choices, this app is an interactive mood diary for monitoring and understanding emotional wellbeing. It includes tips and guidance on how to influence mood.
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Take control of your thoughts, feelings and behaviour…help manage fear, anxiety and stress, and tackle unhelpful thinking.
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NHS Better Health
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Help you stop your mind racing, get to sleep, stay asleep and wake up refreshed.
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Recovery Guide
17 essential things…to know to fast track your recovery.
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Eating Disorder’s App…for every stage of recovery from anorexia, bulimia, OED, BED, CED and other eating disorders.
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Rise Up
Eating Disorder’s app.
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Manage stress, anxiety and depression…eight-week course…completed in your own time.
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Mindfulness meditation is about mental health and looking after the mind.
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Stress and Anxiety Companion
Breathing exercises, relaxing music and games designed to calm the mind. Helps you to change negative thoughts and to better cope with life’s ups and downs.
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Content created for university students by NHS doctors…reduce your worries, feel more confident and get the support you need.
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Feel Stress Free- use the app to relax before a stressful situation or as part of your regular routing. Also Apps to help stop or cut down on smoking, drinking, eat more healthily, get more active.
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Wellmind
NHS app…help you with stress, anxiety and depression…includes advice, tips and tools…
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What’s Up?
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and ACT (Acceptance Commitment Therapy) methods to help you cope with Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress and more.
YANA: Help for those in farming who may be affected by stress and depression.
Provides fast track access to appropriate counselling, mental health first aid training and promotes a suicide prevention campaign TRACTOR FACTS (see urgent page).
Directory of other rural support organisations available to download.
Confidential Helpline: 0300 323 0400,
email: helpline@yanahelp.org
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The Addington Fund
Main aim is to provide homes for farming families who have to leave the industry, through no fault of their own, and by doing so will lose their home. Also might be able to assist with a grant towards certain business costs in times of emergency and where hardship prevails.
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The Farm Safety Foundation
Tackling the stigma around risk-taking and poor mental health, ensuring that farmers are resilient and equipped with smart strategies and specific skills to live well and farm well.
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The Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust
www.thegamekeeperswelfaretrust.com
Helpline 0300 123 3088. Office 01677 470180
Helpline with information and support on a wide variety of issues. Financial help in times of hardship and educational grants for young people.
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The Maytree Centre
A Suicide Respite Centre – in London, but available to all. Supporting people in suicidal crisis in a non-medical setting. Provides a stay in a safe and confidential space.
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The Royal Countryside Fund
https://www.royalcountrysidefund.org.uk/
Help and support for family farms and rural communities
Emergency Funding
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National Rural Mental Health Forum
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The Agricultural Chaplains Association
http://www.agrichaplains.org.uk
Seek to serve people of all faiths or none. Through national membership share good practice, provide mutal support, initiate relevant training.
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The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI)
Tailored financial support, practical care and guidance to farmers, farm workers and their dependents.
Free helpline: 0800 188 4444
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The Farming Community Network
Helpline: 03000 111 999
email help@fcn.org.uk
Practical and pastoral support to farmers and farming families through difficult times. Find regional groups via website.
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Perennial
Free and confidential advice, support and financial assistance to people working in, or retired from, horticulture.
Helpline: 0800 093 8543
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Grassroots Suicide Prevention
http://www.prevent-suicide.org.uk
Please look at the main, general organisations at the top, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Hearing Voices tabs for information about this.
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For instance:
Rethink
A great factsheet to download from here.
Living with Schizophrenia
www.livingwithschizophreniauk.org
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Also general organisations, particularly Rethink
Self Injury Support
https://www.selfinjurysupport.org.uk/
Talk to a trained female volunteer with knowledge of self injury.
Open 7 pm – 10 pm, Monday and Thursday.
Text 07537 432 444
Telephone Helpline 0808 800 8088
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National Self Harm Network Forum
Online support forum
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Harmless
Self harm and suicide support, advice and information.
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Make Space
https://www.makespaceco.org/artsandourselves
“Our mission is to re-imagine the fundamental assumptions upon which care for self-harm is based. We do so through workshops, peer-led spaces, and developing research and resources.”
Online art and writing workshops.
Jewish Association for Mental Illness
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Muslim Women’s Helpline
Helpline: 0800 999 5786
Text: 07415 206 936
Webchat 10-4 M-F
Email info@mwnhelpline.co.uk
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Amina (Muslim Women’s Resource Centre)
Helpline: 0808 801 0301
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Premier Lifeline (Christian)
0300 111 0101
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Mellulah Yoga and Spirit
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Chill Out Retreats
https://www.chilloutretreats.com/uk-retreats
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Hartridge Buddhist Monastery
https://hartridgemonastery.org/index.html
Near Honiton, Devon. Although the monastery is primarily a place of monastic training for monks, visitors and guests are also welcome, to share the lifestyle of the community. Accommodation for 4-5 guests.
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Queen of Retreats – Sharpham Trust
https://queenofretreats.com/retreats/the-sharpham-trust-england/
The charity runs a variety of mindfulness and meditation retreats throughout the year in Devon. The retreats are aimed at people with a range of meditation experience. Secular retreats in a gorgeous Palladian mansion, nature retreats under canvas in woodland or Buddhist retreats at The Barn.
There are many more – Google “Spiritual retreats Dorset” or insert a county of choice. The cost will vary a great deal so look at that first if it is a concern.
For more Yoga, massage, Tai Chi Qi-Gong, Mindfulness and meditation look at the Extra Information Social Activities etc. pdf available to download from the Home page of this website and keep an eye on the news pages.
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Mindfulness UK Virtual Wellbeing Service
www.mindfulnessuk.com Teacher training but also
Mindfulness and compassion courses online.
Live mindfulness and fitness sessions.
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Curvy Girl Yoga
https://curvygirlyoga.co.uk – in Bristol but also online.
For those women who are size 16 or over.
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Stress Management Society
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NHS Help and Support
Try our 6 tips to help you be happier
NHS tips on helping you to be happier, more in control and able to cope.
Stamp out Suicide
Veterans UK – Government Contact Us Webpage
http://www.gov.uk/guidance/veterans-uk-contact-us
Veterans Helpline
The Ministry of Defence’s Veterans UK helpline provides assistance on many issues including benefits, housing and welfare.
Veterans UK helpline
Veterans UK
Ministry of Defence
Norcross
Thornton Cleveleys
FY5 3WP
Email: veterans-uk@mod.gov.uk
Freephone (UK only): 0808 1914 2 18
Telephone (overseas): +44 1253 866 043
Normal Service 8.00 am to 4.00 pm Monday to Friday
When the helpline is closed, callers in need of immediate emotional support will be given the option to be routed to The Samaritans 24 hour helpline.
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SSAFA
0800 260 6767
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Combat Stress
https://www.combatstress.org.uk/
Helpline: 0800 138 1619, 24 hours a day
Help with issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression. Specialist treatment and support for veterans from every service and conflict, focusing on those with complex mental health issues.
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The PTSD Project UK
https://www.facebook.com/ukPTSD/
Veterans in Crisis Line 0300 365 0333, 10 am until Midnight, 7 days a week
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Veterans Gateway
24/7 contact for all welfare needs. From healthcare and housing to employability.
Tel. 0808 802 1212
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PTSD Resolution
Tel. 0300 302 0551
Help and support for veterans, reservists, families.
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NHS – Op Courage
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/armed-forces-community/mental health
Op Courage:
Op COURAGE can help you and your family with a range of support and treatment
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HeadFIT
Developed in partnership with The Royal Foundation’s Heads Together campaign, the Ministry of Defence and King’s College London.
It is an online platform which provides the military with 24/7 access to self-help tools to help them manage the stresses of everyday life.
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The Royal British Legion
https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-support/physical-and-mental-wellbeing
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Help for Heroes
Safe Lives
Includes information on staying safe from domestic violence and how to get help.
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Refuge
Free 24/7 helpline
0808 2000 247
and a lot more help.
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National Centre for Domestic Violence
Specialises in getting emergency injunctions.
24 hour Helpline:
0800 970 2070
Text “NCDV” to 60777, email office@ncdv.org.uk
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Mankind
For Men experiencing domestic abuse
www.mankind.org.uk Helpline for men suffering domestic violence:
Tel. 01823 334244
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Respect Men’s Advice Line
http://www.mensadviceline.org.uk/: 0808 801 0327 – Confidential helpline for men experiencing domestic violence from a partner or ex-partner (or from other family members).
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Rape Crisis
Tel. 0808 500 2222
Or Live Chat service via website.
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Stop Hate UK
One of the leading national organisations working to challenge all forms of Hate Crime and Discrimination.
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Action on Elder Abuse – The National Careline
https://www.thenationalcareline.org/
Tel. 0800 0699 784
Mon – Fri 9am – 5 pm
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Mosac
Support and information for non-abusing mothers and carers of sexually abused children.
Victim Support
Tel. 0808 16 89 111
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Napac
Help for people abused in childhood.
0808 801 0331
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One in Four
Supporting survivors of child sexual abuse and trauma.
Counselling, Advocacy, Training, Resources.
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Respond
For people with learning disabilities and/or autism who have experienced trauma.
Tel. 020 7383 0700
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Survivors UK
Men overcoming sexual violence (man, boy or non-binary)
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Into the Light
Sexual Abuse support and counselling
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CIS’ters
“Surviving rape and sexual abuse”
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The Survivors Trust
https://www.thesurvivorstrust.org/
Helpline 08088 010818
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Karma Nirvana
Honour Based Violence (HBV)
Tel. 0800 5999 247
Supporting men and women who are being pressured to get married against their will, fear bringing shame or dishonour to their family or are concerned about being disowned.
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Galop
For people who have experienced LGBT+ abuse and violence
Tel. 0800 999 5428
We also support lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer people who have had problems with the police or have questions about the criminal justice system.
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Suzy Lamplugh Trust
http://www.stalkinghelpline.org/:
National Stalking Helpline:
0808 802 0300
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Respect
https://respectphoneline.org.uk/
For people COMMITTING domestic violence
Tel. 0808 802 4040
A confidential and anonymous helpline for anyone concerned about their violence and/or abuse towards a partner or ex-partner.
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SAMM (Support after Murder and Manslaughter)
Helpline: 0121 4722912
