local SUPPORT
YOU ARE HERE
A detailed list of local Mental Health Services.
Look below to find Young People and Children. More specific help follows that with everything from Autistic Spectrum to Mental Health at Work to Veterans.
general practices
The first point of call if you feel you need some help with your mental health is usually with your GP Practice. A GP will establish if you need talking therapy, medication, referral to someone else or just talk through what you want and how you feel.
Many surgeries now offer several services and other professionals to see as well as doctors. Some have a mental health professional such as a community psychiatric nurse or occupational therapist who can offer appointments.
Help & Care are a service provided in partnership with the NHS and Dorset Mental Health Forum and is often at a GP practice such as Abbey View Medical Centre or sometimes another community facility.
www.helpandcare.org.uk
Tel. 0300 111 3303
If you are living with a long term health condition ask at reception or call 0303 303 0153
They employ:
Self-management coaches who are professionals who will work with you to help you feel confident about managing your health and its impact on your day-to day life.
Link workers, can help you connect to your local community; whether it is signposting or supporting you to access services.
Health Champions are volunteers who may also be able to help and are based at Shaftesbury, Gillingham and Sturminster Newton. They have been DBS checked, have some training and can work with the Surgery staff to help you.
Contact [email protected] or fill in a form (available at reception).
‘Wellbeing Prescriptions’ are available and Health Champions can help with many issues from Bereavement to Fibromyalgia to Hearing loss and Lunch and Craft groups.
Mindfulness and Chat – Group in the Health Education Room at Abbey View Medical Centre, Shaftesbury. Fortnightly Tuesday 10.30 – 12 noon. Email [email protected] or telephone Jude on 07956292962.
Fibromyalgia, Chonic pain and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Peer Support Group, Abbey View Medical Centre, fortnightly, 11.30 am – 12.30 pm. At Abbey View Medical Centre, Health Education Room.
LGBT Support Group – Contact Gillingham Medical Practice.
For a list of all Practices in North Dorset and adjacent in Wiltshire press here:
general help
Many of these services have adjusted the ways they provide support in order to help during the pandemic and more solutions are being found every day. Look at the News pages on this website, look at the websites listed and telephone or email the organisations if you are unsure.
Steps to Wellbeing
This is the organisation (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT Service)) in Dorset to which you can be referred or refer yourself for talking therapies and other help. Have a look at their website for a full understanding of what they do. After referral you will have an assessment appointment to see what is appropriate for you.
They also have a “Body and Mind Service” where they work with other professionals to help those whose mental health is suffering because of conditions such as Diabetes, Chronic Pain, Respiratory Conditions, Heart Conditions and Stroke.
Telephone: 0300 790 6828
Email: [email protected]
Witshire IAPT Service
In Wiltshire the IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies) Services are provided by Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership Trust (AWP), Tel. 01380 731335,
www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-mental-health
In Somerset the IAPT Service is provided through the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust.
Telephone: 0300 323 0033.
Connection
24/7 telephone helpline for Dorset
Telephone: 0300 1235440
(See Urgent Page too)
General advice sites
Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
Mental Health Support in Wiltshire
https://adults.wiltshire.gov.uk has the best directory I can find for Willtshire along with
https://wiltshirehealthandcare.nhs.uk/our-services/
Mental Health Support in Somerset
Somerset Recovery and Wellbeing Alliance
South Somerset Wellbeing Directory
A great resource to find help including Wincanton Community Café (run by Health Coaches), Dementia Action Alliances, Wincanton Men’s Shed, Wincanton Women’s Shed, HUB2 Coffee and Cake Mornings, Wincanton Live at Home Scheme, Green Space at Stokehill, Tai Chi for people with Parkinson’s Disease.
Also Wincanton Wellness Support Group, a peer-led confidential support group for people with mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder. Email. [email protected] or Tel. 07804451471
Somerset Mental Wellbeing Service
Tel. 01823 255917
Somerset Mindline
01823 276892
9 am – 11 pm
Mon – Fri, 8 pm – 11 pm Weekends.
Peer Connections
A new mentoring programme across Somerset for people affected by mental illness to give and receive support.
Currently looking for volunteers.
Contact [email protected], tel. 07483 431801
Enable Support
Specialised support for people with mental health needs, Asperger’s, Acquired brain injury and learning disability. [email protected], Tel. 01935 577026.
Community Front Room
A Community Front Room is located in Shaftesbury. This is based at:
Shaftesbury & District Carers (HOPE)
Units 4-6, Plot 25c
Longmead Industrial Estate
Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8PL
It is open from 3.15 – 10.45 pm Thursday to Sunday. No referral or appointment needed, just turn up and ring the doorbell.
Community Front Rooms (CFRs) are open to anyone over 18 who needs face-to-face support.
They are staffed by mental health professionals and peer specialists (people with personal experience of mental health issues), and are there for you if you are struggling to cope.
CFRs are welcoming, informal, safe spaces where you can discuss your problems.
Staff will not offer medication or structured therapy, but rather self-management advice and support that helps you find the solutions to aid your recovery.
If the staff feel the CFR is not the most appropriate level of support for you, they may offer you an assessment which may lead to further support from the other mental health services available.
Dorset Pain Management Service
“Soaring above Pain”
Mental Health problems often accompany chronic pain. A multidisciplinary team of Consultants in Pain Medicine, psychologists, psychological therapists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses, therapy assistants Referral from GP or other primary care practitioner.
Also PainPals helpline 01202 858 361. [email protected] run by Peer Mentor, Facebook Group. Local Groups meet in Shaftesbury, Sherborne and Blandford.
Dorset All Age Eating Disorders Service
01202 492147
Self-referral and parent/guardian referral accepted.
Somerset Recovery and Wellbeing Alliance
Mindline 01823 276892 (24/7) or email [email protected].org
Somerset Recovery and Wellbeing Alliance. Rethink, other charities and NHS. 24/7 helpline with resources and support. Named Open Mental Health to reflect belief that people should be able to get the help and support they need for their recovery and wellbeing, wherever they are and whatever the help and support they need. In the first quarter the service has helped hundreds of people and been praised by the county and by NHS England.
Participation in arts and culture makes communities feel safer and stronger, adds to health and wellbeing and reduces social isolation.’ (Create, Arts Council England, 2015).
My name is Sue and I have been running Making Space at the Band Hall in Shaftesbury for a couple of years. Making Space is not about perfecting skills…but a place to connect with your creative, playful self. No right or wrong, no success or fail, no judging.
The sessions are informal, there is a set activity but it’s not obligatory. You can read a book from the craft library, listen to my record collection, from David Cassidy to Tchaikovsky, or enjoy tea and cake.
I really am not biased when I say that everyone who comes along is friendly and welcoming. We share our strengths and learn from each other.
If you would like more information please contact Sue by phone or email. 07794530986. [email protected]
Often known simply as “HOPE” OR THE HOPE PROJECT
Is an independent charity working for the benefit of those vulnerable and at risk within our community Their aim is to provide a safe haven for those who need it, with an opportunity to learn new skills, the chance to work and become part of a team. There is a wide range of projects to help people get out and about, learn new skills, and enjoy themselves including Hope 2 Bake, Hope 2 Grow and Hope 2 Cycle.
The HOPE Drop-In Centre is a place that supports people with health and wellbeing problems who are at least 18 years old, and is run by volunteers. It is open weekday afternoons from 1 to 4, with the exception of Wednesdays when it is closed. Here you will also find services including:
Ladies Support Group 11am – 1 pm every Wednesday, all welcome. Refreshments.
Citizens Advice Bureau – C.A.B – sessions by appointment, Computer and internet access and tuition, Arts Group, Hope2doJewellery
The Headstrong Project
“The Headstrong Project is a Not-For-Profit organisation on a mission to challenge stigmas and raise awareness around mental health. Based in Shaftesbury, they host social events, sports, leisure & creative activities and provide support and signposting via social media.”
Dorset Lavender Farm Project
Fiddleford, Sturminster Newton. Telephone 01258 471194
“We provide care and support, volunteer placements and skills training for adults and young people of all ability levels, through the range of tasks and activities associated with our horticulture, the manufacturing of crops, woodworking, crafts and countryside skills.”
Talk This Way
Provides you with an opportunity to have a listening ear, just for you, as an alternative to counselling.
An additional element is the opportunity to do your talking whilst strolling the countryside, through “Walk this way”, as the natural environment can help clear the mind and aid reflection. Routes can be wheelchair accessible.
Email: [email protected].
Initial consultation: Free £20.00 per session. (1 hour)
Dorset Mind
Dorset Mind believes that everyone experiencing a mental health problem should get support and respect.
Local pioneering charity Dorset Mind educates, challenges mental health stigma and inequality, and promotes recovery by empowering individuals to develop resilience.
Dorset Mind runs support groups, mentoring, counselling and an accredited one-to-one befriending service that helps people regain confidence and build resilience. You can find details about the support they provide here.
Services for our area include Gillingham Wellbeing Group – held twice monthly in the evening at Riversmeet Leisure Centre.
1-2-1 Befriending – Trained volunteers provide 1-2-1 support which helps people increase confidence and self-esteem.
There are no waiting times for these services and you can self-refer via email (found on each page of the Dorset Mind website). Whilst it might take a little while to match you with a befriender, we offer phone-befriending immediately to help support you.
Another Wellbeing group is held in Sherborne and a Women in Mind group in Blandford as well as others around Dorset. See Dorset Mind website for details.
See Young people and Mental Health at Work tabs below for more services.
Social media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DorsetMindOfficial/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DorsetMind
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dorsetmind/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin/dorset-mind-05b649b7/
You tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIhyYYLtQX2TSbQ1MHpem2w
WILTSHIRE MIND
Telephone support 01225 706532 if you are in need of a chat or feeling alone.
Nearest services – Peer Support Groups in Salisbury and Trowbridge.
Polish (speaking) Counselling in Trowbridge.
Other services elsewhere – young people’s counselling 11+.
MIND IN SOMERSET
Nearest service is Frome Youth Matters plus services in Yeovil.
Community Mental Health Team (CMHT)
If your mental health problems are more severe you may be referred to the CMHT for adults, which in North Dorset is based upstairs at Abbey View Medical Centre in Shaftesbury. You cannot refer yourself to this service but will need to see your GP or another professional.
The CMHT (older peoples) Team is based at Westminster Hospital in Shaftesbury.
Website – select “Adult and Older People’s Mental Health Services CMHT”;
In Wiltshire Community Mental Health Services are run by Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership Trust (AWP)
In Somerset by the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, 01823 333444
Dorset Mental Health Forum
Telephone: 01305 257172
A Peer-led charity. An extremely useful website with loads of information on many aspects of mental health. Based in Dorchester and provides services mostly in West Dorset.
Provides ADVOCACY services for the whole of Dorset except Poole and Bournemouth.
For North Dorset contact Robin Francis on 07969 266972 or email Robin or Catherine Bramble on 07749 039360 or email Catherine.
Green Gang
(recovering Mental Health While Working for the Environment)
Gillingham
Telephone Bob Messer 07419211797
Email: [email protected]
Once a fortnight 10 am – 1 pm.
Skills & Learning
A programme of courses specially developed to provide support for people with mild to moderate anxiety or depression.
Call 01202 262300 or 01305 819059.
Shaftesbury Tourism
Has a great “What’s On’ which includes all local groups etc. and not just events for tourists.
The Recovery Education Centre
The Recovery Education Centre (REC) is jointly delivered by Dorset HealthCare and Dorset Mental Health Forum.
“The centre co-develops and co-delivers educational based courses focusing on recovery, wellbeing and shared learning, bringing together the expertise of professionals and people with lived experience.”
“Our courses are available to people with personal experience of mental health difficulties as well as carers, friends, family, and supporters including staff and they are FREE to attend.
The focus is on shared learning, self-determination and choice. The REC provides opportunity to explore and understand experiences and to recognise and develop skills and tools which may help in your recovery journey.”
Courses:
Courses are sometimes held in Shaftesbury, Gillingham or Sturminster Newton as well as a bit further away in Blandford and Sherborne and many in the rest of Dorset.
Titles include: Introducing Recovery; Emotion Management; Mindful Living; Understanding Depression and Anxiety; An Introduction to Asperger’s Syndrome, Understanding Unusual Experiences; Managing and Maintaining Work and lots more.
For Young People
DORSET SERVICES
Chat Health
If you are aged 11 – 19
Text #ChatHealthNHS on 07480 635511 (free) to talk to a School Nurse about anything including mental health, relationships, depression, anxiety, stress, drugs and alcohol, smoking and healthy eating.
All messages sent are confidential unless there is a concern for a child’s safety. Chat Health is available Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm, including the school holidays but not bank holidays.
If a young person texts outside these times they will get an automated message about where to go for help.
Dorset Mind
Provides mental health and education programmes for schools called Dorset Mind Your Head.
That supports young people (in and out of school), parents and teachers.
CAMHS – Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Telephone: 01305 762513
REFERRAL from a professional such as a GP, school nurse or other professional needed..
Rerun Dorset Runaways Service
Rerun Dorset Runaways Service,
Office 3,
The Exchange,
Old Market Hill,
Sturminster Newton
DT10 1FH.
Dorset Lavender Farm Project
The Discovery Project
13 – 25 years
A partnership between Dorset HealthCare and Dorset Mental Health Forum combining the expertise of NHS Professionals, the lived experience of Peer Specialists and the voice of Young People to create spaces to explore and share what mental health, recovery, and wellbeing means by looking at what matters to you. Not a clinical intervention, the Project covers the whole of Dorset with schools, charities, and other organisations.
Discovery Profiles – A chance to discuss what path your discovery journey might take. A Large Programme of Topics – Learning, Exploring and Understanding Mental Health. From Worksheets to Workshops, and everything in between. Discovery Podcasts
YP Community – Have your say, share your thoughts. This is where young people say what matters most to them.
Treads Youth Advice & Information
Wiltshire/Somerset services
CAMHS in Wiltshire
01865 903777
Out of hours: 01865 901000
Provided by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust
Wiltshire Early Mental Health Service
Run by Barnardo’s
Lots of practical tips and advice about supporting children and young people’s mental health focusing on a range of different subjects.
Mental Health helpline for children, young people and parents/carers.
9am – 5pm on a weekday and 5pm – 9am on a weekday or on weekends
Telephone: 01865 903777 (9am – 5pm) and 01865 901000 (5pm – 9am)
The helpline should not be used in life threatening situations, instead emergency services should be contacted via 999
Frome Youth Matters
Where young people can have one to one targeted mental health support in a warm, safe environment. YMCA Frome.
FREED
18 – 25 years
Somerset Partnership Eating Disorders Service for Adults
GP or other Primary Care referral needed.
And SWEDA – Somerset and Wessex Eating Disorders Association – Early Signs pathway.
Self referral accepted.
Specific Help
AUTISM/ASPERGERS
Autism Wessex – 22 Bargates, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1QL
Telephone: 01202 483360
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Community Adult Asperger’s Service, Delphwood/Ashdown Cl, Poole BH17 8WG
Telephone: 01202 605875
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Dorset Adult Asperger’s Service
http://dorsetadultaspergerssupport.org.uk
Online chats Tuesdays 7.20 – 8.30 pm.
Telephone: 07789 521 758 or 07818 073 390 or 07515 881 200
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Gillingham Aspergers Support Group
2nd and 4th Tuesday
7 – 8
Gillingham Library
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Drop-in, Bell Street United Church
1st Saturday 12.30 pm
Telephone: 01747 854631
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Co-op Funeralcare Bereavement Counselling
Telephone: 01747 858968
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The Martinsey Isle Trust
Sturminster Newton Drop in Centre
“Solace for the lonely and bereaved and a place for those who would like some fun or interest in an informal setting.”
Telephone: 01258 475125
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Mosaic – children/young people bereaved or facing loss, www.mosaicfamilysupport.org
Carers Clinics at Abbey View Medical Centre, Shaftesbury and Sturminster Newton Medical Centre
Contact Debbie Martin, Carers’ Lead on 01747 856700. At Gillingham Surgery contact Gemma Collins, carers’ lead on 01747 824201.
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Rethink Carers Support Service (Mental Health) Dorset
01305 262771
Rethink Gillingham Carers Group (for carers of people with mental illness): Gillingham Community Church, The Old Library (opposite Costa) 2nd and 4th Wednesday 10 am – 12 noon
Carers can also access 1 : 1 support. Please telephone for a chat to find out more details.
01305 262771
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Dorset Mental Health Carers Support Line. Call a Peer Specialist Carer on 01305 340045
Dorset Carers Here to Talk Service
To register go online or Tel. 0800 368 8349
Or email [email protected]
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We are an NCS (National Citizen Service) based in North Dorset, raising awareness for young carers, and supporting the charity ‘the Honeypot Children’s charity’.
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“My Time” Carers support group at Shaftesbury Plus, Trinity Centre, Shaftesbury SP7 8BW
Telephone: 01747 859 120
2 pm – 3.30 pm Every 3rd Tuesday
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Memory Support and Advisory Service
Telephone: 0300 123 1916
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Carer Support Wiltshire
Telephone: 0800 181 4118
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Somerset Carer Support
Telephone: 0800 316 8600
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Carers Trust
Telephone: 0844 800 4361
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Dorset Council
Telephone: 01305 251000
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Out of Hours Emergency number
Telephone: 01305 858250
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Sturminster Carers Coffee Morning. Second Wednesday of each month 10 – 12.30 at Stour Connect
Telephone: 01258 472957
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The Leonardo Trust
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Carers Assessment Request
Telephone: 01305 221 016
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Counselling for Carers
Telephone: 01305 221016
Requires assessment by Carers Case worker or similar to be accessed.
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Short Break Service via assessment by Dorset Council staff.
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Care Providers
Bramley Homecare Ltd, Shaftesbury
Telephone: 01747 855844
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Homestead Care, Gillingham
Telephone: 01747 228971
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Mulberry Court, Gillingham
Telephone: 01747 822241
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My Life Living Assistance, Gillingham
Telephone: 01747 826505
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Wisteria Care, Gillingham
Telephone: 01747 852107
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My Life My Care Directory – Are you ‘cared for’ or care for someone – look and see for help and activities.
My Life My Care Website – Befriending and Good Neighbour services, lunch clubs and meal deliveries, day services, transport, memory cafes,
My Life My Care Blue Badge – Blue Badge information and how to apply.
Safe and Independent living (SAIL) – Signposting. Partnership of respected agencies in Dorset including local councils, police, fire, NHS and voluntary organisations. Age UK Dorchester
Telephone: 01305 269444
Dorset Council Care And Support
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01305 221016
Somerset Recovery and Wellbeing Alliance
Dorset Accessible Homes Service (DAHS)
Telephone: 0333 003 0010
Email: [email protected]
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Dorset Listening Service. For people over 50 and Carers.
http://www.housingcare.org/service/ser-info-4351-dorset-listenin.aspx
Call Tina Damon on 07969141837 or email [email protected]
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Carer Support Dorset
Freephone 0800 368 8349, 9.30 am to 4.30 pm
Lots of information, carer’s podcast.
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Here to talk service
To register go online or Tel. 0800 368 8349
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Caring Hands at Home
Offers support for people living in Shaftesbury or nearby, in their own home, with tailored services to provide you or your loved ones the very best of care. Contact Jackie today 07787 517975, [email protected]
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Wincanton Carers
Karen Sherman, Tel. 01963 31730.
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Somerset Carers Project, Tel. 01935 433013
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PramaLife – www.pramalife.org.uk
FOCUS Befriending and Mentoring can join you up with someone to regularly talk to as a befriender (phone or face to face) or with a mentor who is an experienced carer themselves.
Call the team on 07716 991 618
Email [email protected]
Bach Flower Remedies, Marnhull
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Liz Meyer, Holistic Therapist, Gillingham
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Jennifer Pymm Aromatherapy, West Melbury SP7 0BU
01747 855141, 07807 048708
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https://daisymaryonhypnotherapy.com
Near Tisbury
See main Local Support page for information about Steps to Wellbeing and other NHS Services
www.relate.org.uk/dorset-south-wiltshire
Shaftesbury Relate – Westminster Hospital.
[email protected], 01302 380900
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Private Counsellors and Therapists.
www.counselling-directory.org.uk
www.babcp.com -British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists
You can expect to pay from £40 to £70 for a session. Some therapists do the first session for free.
The contact details, type of therapy and other information on the following therapists is available on one of the websites above.
In Shaftesbury
Judith Lask
Jax Beatty
Paula Pyrgos
Clea Stanley
Cinzia Altobelli
Alexander Allfrey
Jane Hawthorn
Ruth Gilbert
Maria Walker
Sally Dhruev
In Gillingham
Marianne Taylor
Sarah Sanger
Richard Anderson
Anita Woods
Anna Macklin
Elizabeth Wareing
Ursula Sunderland
Elements Coaching & Counselling
In Sturminster Newton
Annie Coultas
Leah Lowinger
Bruce Gouren
In Mere
Annie Synnott
Miranda Jackson
In Tisbury
Elizabeth Harcourt
Claudia Businaro
Annabelle Gilham
In Child Okeford
Sarah Jack
In Marnhull
Breathe on UK, The Medical Centre,
Also (business card found in Abbey View Medical Centre)
Morna Spence BSc (Hons) MBPsS, Psychotherapy and Counselling.
Telephone: 07876 746756
DEMENTIA
MEMORY GATEWAY – Memory Services for people living in Dorset.
The Memory Support and Advisory Service working together with the Memory Assessment Service. Provided by Alzheimer’s Society and Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust working in partnership.
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Dementia Friends
Shaftesbury
Telephone: 07738 249069 or 01747 852710
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Excellent pdf to download – Living Well with Dementia and Memory Loss in Dorset
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https://www.tricuro.co.uk/day-service/shaftesbury-plus-specialist-dementia-service/
https://www.injollygoodcompany.com Shaftesbury memory café
https://www.tricuro.co.uk/day-service/stour-connect/ -Sturminster Newton
https://www.friendsofstourconnect.org/events-calendar – Sturminster Newton
https://www.mindfulmemorycafes.com – Gillingham
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Memory Box
3rd Monday 2.00-3.30pm
Vicarage School Rooms, Gillingham
Free open to all
Contact Revd Andy Muckle
Telephone: 01747 835440
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Tricuro Shaftesbury Plus
Trinity Centre, Shaftesbury
“…are aiming to reduce loneliness and isolation within our community”
Monday to Saturday
Programme of activities and community lunch
Telephone: 01747 854959.
www.tricuro.co.uk/day-service/shaftesbury-plus-specialist-dementia-service/
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Friends of Stour Connect
Memory Café – friendly professional support for those with dementia and their carers.
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Singing for the Brain – Gillingham Town Hall
Every Wednesday 2 pm – 3.30 pm. Please feel free to come alone, or with a carer.
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Music and Movement – St Martin’s Grange, The Circle Room, Gillingham.
Every other Thursday 2 pm – 3 pm. Telephone 01747 834020
Whether sitting or standing you can enjoy and benefit from the gentle movements which are brought to you by Paris Helen.
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Magic Table Activity – Tovertafel Table Sessions.
A sitting activity for people with moderate to severe dementia, encouringing them to instinctively participate in order to stimulate both physical and social activity. The games consist of interactive light animations which are projected on to a table and which motivate the mind and inspire those living with dementia to be active. The Circle Room St Martin’s Grange 2.00 – 3.30 pm, last Friday of each month. All are very welcome. Tel. 01747 834020.
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Marching on Group (for men). Run by MINDFUL. [email protected]
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The ‘Safe Haven’. The Malthouse Care Home Bay Road, Gillingham, SP8 4EW.
The ‘Safe Haven’ is an alternative, and preferred, place to a police station for someone, who in a public place, and in a state of confusion due to any form of dementia related illness, to be taken to while they wait for a responsible person to be found, or a means to get home. Tel. 01747 822667.
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www.ColtenCare.co.uk/Admiral-Nurse
Dementia UK Admiral Nurses, Helping families face Dementia.
Colten Care Admiral Nurse Team – specialised dementia support to carers, relatives and the local community at Newstone House, Sturminster Newton.
Practical Advice alongside emotional and psychological support.
DISABLED
www.mylifemycare.com/directory – Befriending and Good Neighbour services, lunch clubs and meal deliveries, day services, transport, memory cafes
www.mylifemycare.com/disabled-parking – Blue Badge information and how to apply
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Safe and Independent living (SAIL)
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/northsouthwestdorset/about-us/sail/
Signposting. Partnership of respected agencies in Dorset including local councils, police, fire, NHS and voluntary organisations
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Age UK Dorchester
Telephone: 01305 269444
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Dorset Council
www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/care-and-support-for-adults
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01305 221016
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Dorset Accessible Homes Service (DAHS)
Telephone: 0333 003 0010
Email: [email protected]
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Disability Wessex Advice
Telephone: 01202 718266
Email: [email protected]
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DOTS Disability Training.
Independent Occupational Therapy and Training service
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Information and advice and signposting.
Call 01202 771336 – 10 am – 4 pm Mon to Fri
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Fibromyalgia/Chronic Pain/Chronic Fatigue Support Group
At Abbey View Medical Centre, Shaftesbury
Every Fortnight. Contact Debbie Martin on 07738 104905, email [email protected]
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Fibro Buddies Support Group, Gillingham
The Community Church Hall 12.30 – 3 pm
Fibromyalgia Action UK is pledged to raise awareness amongst the general public and medical professionals so that everyone with Fibromyalgia can get the help they need.
National helpline 0300 999 3333, or look on Groups on Facebook.
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Wincanton Fibromyalgia Support Group
Kathryn Bargery 01963 33855
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NorDDis
North Dorset Disability Information Service, Gillingham
Tel. 01747 821010. Buy/hire new and second-hand equipment, Information and Advice, Free NHS hearing and batteries, volunteering opportunities.
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Sturminster Parkinson’s Café
Sturminster Christian Fellowship, The Row, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1AX
11am – 12.30pm on the second Thursday of the month. Join us for coffee and a chat. Family and friends welcome.
Parkinson’s Local Adviser – Paula Wright Tel. 0344 225 3760, Mob. 0786 135 824 (North Dorset, Poole and Purbeck)
Email [email protected]. Switchboard 020 7931 8080.
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Somerset – Signposts Information Service have access to DissBase, a national disability information database. Contact [email protected]. Tel. 0800 317 220
REACH
North Drug and Alcohol Services
Woodcock Court, Queens Street, Gillingham, SP8 4DZ
Telephone: 0800 043 4656
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Gambling Support Service (GSS) South West England
[email protected] or [email protected]
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Clouds House, East Knoyle, Wiltshire. www.actiononaddiction.org.uk
In-patient treatment for all types of addiction, private, NHS and charity funded patients.
In addition to treatment for drugs (prescribed and non-prescribed), alcohol and gambling, there is treatment for gaming, sexual and some food related addictions.
StepChange Debt Help
Specialist team to offer extra support if you have mental health problems.
Tel. 0800 188 1111 or call Gillingham Community Church on 01747 825611
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Christians against poverty (CAP)
Free debt counselling in your community.
Tel. 0800 328 0006
Or call at Open House, Father’s House, Shaftesbury.
GENERAL HEALTH
LiveWell Dorset is a free health service provided by Dorset Council.
They can help guide you to a healthier lifestyle through advice and coaching.
Stop Smoking, Lose Weight, Drink Less, Get Active.
Tel: 01305 233 105.
Email: [email protected]
www.livewelldorset.co.uk, Free phone 0800 840 1628
Facebook LiveWell Dorset, Twitter @LWDorset
Free happiness and wellbeing assessment at www.livewelldorset.co.uk/wemwbs
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Download the WaitLess App which has up-to-the-minute travel info and the latest waiting times at Dorset’s urgent and emergency care services direct to your pone. #WaitLessDorset
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Have your say….
Online Comment form for complaints and compliments – Dorset Healthcaare University NHS Foundation Trust. www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/feedback/trust-online-comments-form.htm
Email [email protected] or [email protected] Tel. PALS Freephone 0800 587 4997, Complaints team: 01202 277024
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Need information about a local health or social care service?
Want to know how to raise a concern or a complaint?
0300 111 0102, [email protected]
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Hydro4you. www.neptuneaquatics.co.uk
Stour View Hydrotherapy Pool, Sturminster Newton.
Proven to be effective for the treatment of a variety of conditions including back pain, fibromyalgia, arthritis, autism, musculoskeletal conditions, rehab following surgery, neurological conditions, strokes, head injury and many more. Friendly team supervise 30 minute or 60 minute sessions. No medical referral is required, just book online and pay as you go, or save with a block of sessions.
GP SURGERIES IN AND AROUND NORTH DORSET
Blackmore Vale Partnership – Abbey View Medical Centre Shaftesbury, The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, Marnhull and Fontmell Magna
Tel. 01747 856700
www.blackmorevalesurgery.co.uk/
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Gillingham Medical Practice – The Barn and Peacemarsh Surgeries
Tel. 01747 824201
And 01747 834330
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Silton – The Surgery
Tel. 01747 840226.
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Tisbury Surgery, Park Road, Tisbury, Salisbury SP3 6LF
Tel: 01747 870204
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Hindon Surgery
Tel. 01747 820222
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Child Okeford Surgery– The Blandford Group Practice.
Tel. 01258 860687
www.theblandfordgrouppractice.co.uk
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If you live in another local area of Dorset try
https://www.nhs.uk/Services/Trusts/GPs/DefaultView.aspx?id=89599
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Wiltshire
or
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Mere Surgery
01747 860001
Somerset
https://bswccg.nhs.uk/your-health/find-a-local-service
or
Dorset Mind’s game-changing workplace training programme, Dorset Mind Works, helps employers support employees with their mental health, reduce presenteeism and is proven to benefit profitability.
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Gambling training, advice, information
Free from Citizens Advice for front-line staff, advisers and managers about the risks of gambling and what support is available and free training to organisations to identify harm in their clients and help people get the support they need.
OVER 50s
Age Concern North Dorset
email. [email protected]
See website for Digital Champion Volunteers, the Digital Hotline – finding out how to get better broadband, getting online for the first time or using new technology such as video conferencing.
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Age Concern, Sturminster Newton offers befriending, counselling as well as more practical things to the over 50s
Open 5 days a week 10-2
Telephone: 01258 475582
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Age Concern, Shaftesbury
Weds/Thurs 10 – 12
Telephone: 01747 853966
Age Concern Pop-In , The Pavilions, St Martin’s Lane – games, quizzes, pub lunches, outings.
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Rosemary Goddard Centre (Mere and District Day Centre)
Activities
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Dorset Listening Service
http://www.housingcare.org/service/ser-info-4351-dorset-listenin.aspx
Call Tina Damon on 07969141837 or email [email protected]
“Our aim is to help and support you to address any emotional difficulties such as:
Depression, Bereavement, Adjusting to Retirement, Loss of independence, Loneliness, Relationship difficulties, Declining Health, Failing Memory, Unresolved Conflicts, Facing the Reality of Death.”
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Dorset Support At Home British Red Cross Independent Living Services
For 65 and over, referral from a health professional.
For further information tel. 01305 214430 or 01202 656148.
Email: [email protected]
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PramaLife
Age friendly communities Friendship Line. If you’re feeling lonely, or just a bit out of sorts, then give the PramaLife friendship line a call. A team of volunteers would love to chat with you.
01202 022987, 8 am – 9 pm seven days a week.
PARENTS
Home-Start North Dorset
www.home-start-northdorset.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01258 473038
Supports struggling families where there is at least one child under 5.
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Shaftesbury Children’s Centre
part of
North Dorset Family Partnership Zone (FPZ)
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01305 224310
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If you’re worried about the immediate safety of a child or young person contact our Children’s Advice and Duty Service:
Children’s Advice and Duty Service
Telephone: 01305228866
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www.relate.org.uk/dorset-south-wiltshire
Counselling for Families
[email protected], Tel. 01302 380900
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Relate Somerset, Tel. 01935 472485
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Disability Family Swim at Stour View Hydrotherapy Pool
A session designed for families with children or adults who have additional needs. Limited number of people in the pool to create a great alternative to busy leisure centres.
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Maternity Matters in Dorset
www.maternitymattersdorset.nhs.uk
A new website to help guide you through pregnancy, birth and beyond in Dorset.
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FAMILY MEDIATION SERVICE – 01305 751781
To find a private psychiatrist have a look at:
www.privatehealth.co.uk/doctors-and-health-professionals/psychiatrist/south-west-england/
For general information: www.nhs.uk/conditions/psychiatry
The nearest to our area are in Salisbury including New Hall Hospital, Poole/Bournemouth and Dorchester.
It is also possible to have a consultation online, e.g. www.psychiatry-uk.com/private-patients
For either appointment costs will be (ballpark) £350 for the first 60 – 75 minute appointment after which a full report and diagnosis (if possible) will be made and £180 – £300 for follow-ups.
www.clinical-partners.co.uk/fees (Poole Clinic) gives a good guide to what you can expect to pay for Psychiatrists, Psychologists and other therapists.
FARMING COMMUNITY
The Farming Community Network has a representative in our area.
Kay Gardner
Telephone: 01258 860209
Available to anyone who needs help in the farming community.
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www.futureroots.net/who-we-help/the-countrymens-club
A bit outside our area but activities at Rylands Farm, Boyshill Drove, Holnest, Sherborne DT9 5PS. See Futureroots website for more information.
SOCIAL CARE, BENEFITS, JOBS, HOUSING
Adult Social Care, Dorset Council: 01305 221016, Out of hours 01305 858250
Dorset Council Area Office for enquiries about benefits, council tax
Housing: 01258 454111
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Open House, Shaftesbury – Food aid, Benefit advice, Housing Support, Debt and budgeting support, Job Club.
At Father’s House, Shaftesbury
01747 852994
https://www.fathershouseshaftesbury.co.uk/
Also ‘HOPE’ – See information above.
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Open Door, Gillingham Community Church,
Station Road, SP8 4PY. 01747 825611
Drop in for help Mon and Thurs 10 -12
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North Dorset Citizens Advice – The Courtyard Newbury Court, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4QX,
Appointments Mon, Wed 10-3, Friday 10-1 pm
Email: [email protected]
Dorset Advice Line 0344 245 1291
Also 03444111444 or drop in Shaftesbury Library Wednesday 10 am – 1 pm
and
Sturminster Newton medical centre Monday morning (appointment through reception)
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First Point Dorset IPS Service run by You Trust is for people from the age of 16 and they can help with:
Preventing homelessness, housing issues, health and wellbeing, getting out and about in the community, volunteering, training and employment, leaving hospital, daily living, act as an advocate.
Contact [email protected] or Dorset Integrated Prevention & Support Service on 0330123 2550
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Wiseability – The UCan Project is for people in the Dorset area, aged 25 and over who are unemployed or economically inactive.
It can provide a personalised Support Package to help with work, volunteering, education, training, literacy/numeracy support, social inclusion.
Telephone: 0300 303 3737.
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Dorset Volunteer Centre, 01305 269214
Email: [email protected]
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In Wiltshire
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Healthy Homes Dorset
Free, impartial energy-saving advice. Here to help people live in warmer, healthier homes with lower heating bills. Call 0300 003 7023
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Do you feel Safe and Well in your home?
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service offer FREE safe and well advice. For free safe and well advice or to check you eligibility for a visit see website.
www.Dwfire.org.uk/safety/safe-and-well-visits/ Or Freephone 0800 038 2323.
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Weldmar Hospicecare in North Dorset
Day Service at Westminster Memorial Hospital in Shaftesbury on Fridays 10am – 3 pm for those who are approaching the end of their life and/have complex palliative care needs. Blandford Community Hospital on Fridays. Offers lots of activities, creative arts, complementary therapies, word games, quizzes and more. Freshly made to order lunch, fresh cakes and drinks (including wine and sherry! Lunch is £3 – the rest is free. Referral from a healthcare professional. Transport provided if needed.
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The Martinsey Isle Trust Art of Living and Dying.
Hopes to enrich life through open, honest and supported discussion around dying, funeral choices and bereavement; and through providing social activities to bring people and other charities together in the local community. Supported by ‘Safe Journey Home’.
Tel. Judith on 01258 475125.
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Employment Learning Hubs,
Gillingham Library, SP8 4UA, Friday 10 am– 1 pm
Lindlar Hall, Shaftesbury, Friday 1.30 pm – 3.30 pm
For more information Tel. 01202 262300
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StoreHouse Shaftesbury
A community project offering free good quality second hand household furniture and appliances to local families. Free local delivery. Eligibility criteria.
Open on Tuesdays at Father’s House Shaftesbury 10 am 2 pm.
Tel. 01747 852994, email: [email protected]
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North Dorset Police
Police website: www.dorset.police.police.uk/do-it-online.
To report crimes call 101 or in an emergency 999.
https://www.facebook.com/NorthDorsetPolice
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Gillingham Foodbank.
Gillingham Community Church, Station Road, Gillingham SP8 4PY
Tel. 07895 148094, email: [email protected]
Open Monday and Thursday from 10.00 am to 12.00 noon.
At the foodbank centre we offer tea/coffee, and toys, all within a friendly relaxed environment. We have time to listen, pray for you if you would like, and arrange for other professional help and advice including counselling, advocacy, debt advice, budgeting, Citizens’ Advice Bureau, Steps to Learning Advisors and housing support.
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Somerset Direct – Adult Social Care
Tel. 0845 345 9133
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The Vale Community Food Pantry financed by The Vale PCN
Sturminster Newton
Weekly membership of £4.50, members can choose a selection of food with a value of approx. £22.50 each week. The pantry’s purpose is to help people who need a little bit of help top up their weekly shop, and food available will include fresh fruit and veg, store cupboard favourites, bread, dairy products and frozen items.
To apply for membership, follow the link on www.yourlocalpantry.co.uk or email [email protected]
Mental Health Chaplaincy Services in Dorset
“Chaplaincy services are available to all patients, visitors and staff across all Dorset HealthCare sites and services. Ill health often makes people reflect on what is important to them, and chaplaincy is here to meet your spiritual and religious needs – whatever your beliefs. You may wish to speak with someone who understands the language of faith, or talk with someone about things that are important to you. We can make contact with faith communities and leaders on your behalf. We have ‘spirituality leads’ at a number of sites. The Trust Chaplain visits all our sites and units on a regular basis, and is supported by chaplaincy volunteers.”
Contact the Trust Chaplain – Rev Mike Oates (Chaplaincy Office) at 01202 492072
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For Wiltshire
http://www.awp.nhs.uk/advice-support/service-users/spiritual-pastoral/
Contact Rev. Michael Belfield, Woodside, Callington Road Hospital, Bristol BS4 5BJ
Tel. 07785 561 482
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For Somerset
www.somersetft.nhs.uk/chaplaincy-and-spiritual/
Tel: 01823 668794
Email: [email protected]
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Hydro mind at Stour View Hydrotherapy Pool, Sturminster Newton.
Tel. 01258 920020
With dimmed lighting and relaxing music, these 45 minute sessions have been created with your mental health in mind. Lie back, relax and enjoy some quiet time to yourself in warm water.
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Natural Healing Energy
Applied Energy Flow Healing, Reiki, The Honey Healing Method, Counselling with less talking, Meditation classes, Reiki workshops. [email protected], Tel. 07941 031427.
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Jennifer Pymm, Shaftesbury – Aromatherapy and Reiki, [email protected]
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Dee Dade, Gillingham – Massage and Reiki, [email protected]
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For more yoga, mindfulness etc. see Clubs and Organisations at the foot of this page and keep an eye on the news page.
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The Space, Shaftesbury
Yoga, Reflexology, Pilates, Meditation, Breathwork, Aromatherapy, Mindfulness
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https://daisymaryonhypnotherapy.com (Nr Tisbury)
ARMED FORCES
Armed Forces Community Health and Wellbeing Team (Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust)
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01202 584428
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Soldiers’, Sailors’ & Airmen’s Families Association (SSAFA)
If you are a member of the Armed Forces, a veteran or a military family, and you need help then please don’t hesitate to get in contact
Telephone: 0800 731 4880
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Royal British Legion, Coppice Street, Shaftesbury
Telephone: 01747 850898 or 854765
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www.relate.org.uk/dorset-south-wiltshire
Specialist support for the Armed Forces by web and email.
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Somerset Veterans Liaison Service
Tel. Sheila Taylor 07771 774999
STARS – Sexual Trauma and Recovery Service – Supporting all survivors on their journey of recovery.
Is a pan-Dorset charity that offers one to one support, free of charge, for anyone at any age or gender who lives, works or studies in Dorset and has experienced any form of sexual violence at any time in their lives.
General Enquiries: 01202 308840
Helpline: 01202 308855
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North Dorset Women’s Refuge: Tel. 01747 858555
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Dorset Refuge for Men, women with teenage boys over 15, LGBTQ+ couples and couples fleeing Honour Based Violence. Tel. 01329 825930.
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DAA
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Somerset Victim Support, 01460 55525.
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YouFirst advisers on domestic abuse.
www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/dvahelp
Tel. 0800 032 5204
extra information
Dorset Mental Health Carers Project
Autumn/Winter Newsletter
The latest from the Dorset Mental Health Carers Project