Online Directory
The following listing of helpful resources and organisations is intended to be a useful guide for information purposes only. Due to the breadth and depth of statutory and voluntary sector organisations available in England, it is not feasible to list every single one.
I recommend that people research local services and supports available, as these may vary greatly based on locality.
Crisis support and helplines
If you, or someone you know is in mental health crisis and needs medical help fast:
- Ring 999 to contact emergency services
- Go to your nearest Accident and Emergency (A&E) department
If it is not a medical emergency, but you still need urgent help:
- Ring 111 for professional health advice 24/7 and 365 days a year and guidance on where to access appropriate health services
- Make an appointment with your GP
Crisis and emotional support helplines for everyone
The following helplines provide emotional and crisis support for everyone affected by mental ill health:
Samaritans
Phone: 116 123 (Freephone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Email: jo@samaritans.org
Website: www.samaritans.org
Provide emotional support for people 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They allow people to talk about feelings of distress and despair and are confidential and offer non-judgemental support.
SaneLine
Phone: 0300 304 7000 (Local call rates, 6pm-11pm, 7 days a week)
Website: www.sane.org.uk/home
Provides out of hours mental health and emotional support and information to anyone affected by mental ill health, including family, friends and carers.
For other helplines providing emotional and crisis support to specific groups, please see the relevant headings below.
The Helplines Partnership also has a comprehensive listing of organisations in the UK that provide helplines, which is searchable by topic: www.helplines.org
Mental health information helplines for everyone
The following helplines provide advice and information on mental health, but cannot provide emotional or crisis support:
Mind Infoline
Phone: 0300 123 3393 (Local call rates, 9am-6pm, Mon-Fri)
Text: 86463
Provides information on types of mental health issues, where to get help, medication and alternative treatments and advocacy.
Rethink Advice and Information Service
Phone: 0300 5000 927 (Local call rates, 9.30am-4pm)
Provides practical help and information on issues such as the Mental Health Act, community care, benefits, debt, criminal justice and carers’ rights.
Finding a therapist
Counsellors, psychologists and psychotherapists are listed in the Yellow Pages. The following organisations also have searchable national lists of therapists:
British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies
Phone: 0161 705 4304
Email: babcp@babcp.com
Website: www.babcp.com
The British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies is a multi-disciplinary interest group for people involved in the practice and theory of behavioural and cognitive psychotherapy.
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy Register
Phone: 01455 883300
Email: bacp@bacp.co.uk
Website: www.bacp.co.uk
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy maintains a searchable website of accredited counsellors and psychotherapists, which also includes information on different types of therapy available.
British Psychological Society
Phone: 0116 254 9568
Email: enquiries@bps.org.uk
Website: www.bps.org.uk
The British Psychological Society promotes excellence and ethical practice in the science, education and practical applications to psychology.
Counselling Directory
Phone: 0844 8030 240
Website: www.counselling-directory.org.uk
Provides a free, confidential directory of trained, professional counsellors and therapists in the UK. It is possible to check if a counsellor found through this website is also registered with one of the professional/accreditation bodies listed in this section. Alternatively, you can get in touch with the relevant professional body directly once you have found a named professional to check the details of their registration.
IAPT
Link: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/iapt/
IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies) is the NHS programme which supports rolling out NICE guideline recommended talking therapies to people experiencing depression and anxiety disorders. IAPT services usually provide two types of psychological therapy:
- High intensity therapy (usually cognitive behavioural therapy; for people with moderate and severe depression and anxiety) or
- Low intensity therapy (usually cognitive behavioural approaches, including guided self-help and psychoeducational groups; for people with mild to moderate depression and anxiety) In some areas, self-referral to IAPT services is possible; in others referrals need to be made by a person’s GP. Local IAPT services can be found via the NHS Choices website. (Follow links on IAPT’s main website.) IAPT services often also have employment services or links to other services such as housing, drugs and benefits advice.
Ieso digital health
Website: www.iesohealth.com
Provides online based one-to-one cognitive behavioural therapy on behalf of the NHS and for private companies. Some areas may allow self-referral.
UK Council for Psychotherapy
Phone: 020 7014 9955
Email: info@ukcp.org.uk
Website: www.psychotherapy.org.uk
The UK Council for Psychotherapy is the leading professional body for the education, training and accreditation of psychotherapists and psychotherapeutic counsellors. Their website includes a searchable register of local therapists.
For counselling available for particular types of mental health issues or groups, please see the relevant headings below. Many charities providing mental health specific help run their own counselling services, often at reduced or sliding scale fees for people on low incomes.
Abuse (domestic violence, child, sexual abuse)
NAPAC
Phone: 0808 801 0331 (Freephone, see website for opening hours)
Email: support@napac.org.uk
Website: www.napac.org.uk
The National Association for People Abused in Childhood provides support for people affected by sexual abuse in childhood through a dedicated support line, free online resources and training.
NSPCC
Phone: 0808 800 5000 (Freephone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – for adults concerned about a child)
Email: help@nspcc.org.uk
Website: www.nspcc.org.uk
The NSPCC is the children’s charity dedicated to ending child abuse and child cruelty. Runs Childline (see below) and also a dedicated helpline for adults concerned that a child might be at risk of abuse.
One in Four
Phone: 0208 697 2112
Email: admin@oneinfour.org.uk
Website: www.oneinfour.org.uk
One in Four is a charity that supports people who have experienced child sexual abuse through long-term low-cost therapy (one to one and in groups), advocacy and through education and workshops.
Rape Crisis
Phone: 0808 802 999 (Freephone helpline, see website for opening hours)
Website: www.rapecrisis.org.uk
Rape Crisis is a national charity supporting anyone who has experienced rape, child sexual abuse and/or any other kind of sexual violence. It runs local Rape Crisis helplines and centres across England and Wales, details of which can be found on their website.
Refuge
Phone: 0808 2000 247 (Freephone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Email: helpline@refuge.org.uk (Only monitored Mon-Fri 9-5pm)
Website: www.refuge.org.uk
Refuge provide help and information about domestic violence. It runs a 24/7 domestic violence helpline in partnership with Women’s Aid. Refuge runs a number of safe houses for women and children escaping domestic violence as well as other services.
Survivors UK
Phone: 0203 598 3898
Email: info@survivorsuk.org
Website: www.survivorsuk.org/
Survivors UK provides help and support for men who have experienced sexual violence or abuse. This includes counselling and online and SMS chat support services run by professionals who specialise in the field of male sexual violence.
Women’s Aid
Phone: 0808 2000 247 (Freephone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Email: helpline@womensaid.org.uk
Website: www.womensaid.org.uk
Women’s Aid are a grassroots federation working together to provide life-saving services and build a future where domestic violence is not tolerated.
Addiction and substance misuse (alcohol, drugs, gambling)
Addaction
Phone: 020 7251 5860
Email: info@addaction.org.uk
Website: www.addaction.org.uk
Addaction supports adults, children, young adult and older people to make positive behavioural changes around alcohol, drugs, mental health and wellbeing.
Adfam – Families, drugs and alcohol
Phone: 0207 553 7640
Email: admin@adfam.org.uk
Website: www.adfam.org.uk
Adfam provides information and support for families affected by drugs and alcohol. Their website includes listing of helplines and local support groups available across England, as well as training and information for drug and alcohol professionals.
Al-Anon Family Groups UK & Eire
Phone: 0207 403 0888 (Helpline, 10am-10pm, 7 days a week)
Email: enquiries@al-anonuk.org.uk
Website: www.al-anonuk.org.uk
Al-Anon Family Groups provide support to anyone whose life is, or has been, affected by someone else’s drinking, regardless of whether that person is still drinking or not. Run a wide range of self-help groups for relatives and friends of alcoholics.
Alcoholics Anonymous
Phone: 0800 9177 650 (Freephone, national helpline)
Email: help@alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Website: https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/
Alcoholics Anonymous runs self-help groups across Great Britain for anyone affected by alcohol use issues who wants to change their drinking behaviours, based on 12 step model of recovery.
Alcohol Concern
Phone: 0207 566 9800
Email: contact@alcoholconcern.org.uk
Website: www.alcoholconcern.org.uk
Alcohol Concern is a charity working to help people understand the dangers of drinking too much and to advocate for better treatment for those affected by alcohol use issues.
Alcohol Health Network
Phone: 0203 151 2420
Email: info@alcoholhealthnetwork.org.uk
Website: www.alcoholhealthnetwork.org.uk
A UK-based social enterprise which aims to improve alcohol-related health in the workplace and in communities. Provides a range of alcohol harm reduction services, including policy advice, employee and manager training, online health checks and counselling.
Cocaine Anonymous
Phone: 0800 612 0225
Email: wtf@cauk.org.uk
Website: www.cocaineanonymous.org.uk
Organisation running self-help groups for those with substance use issues relating to cocaine, based on 12 step model of recovery.
Drink Aware
Phone: 0207 766 9900
Email: contact@drinkaware.co.uk
Website: www.drinkaware.co.uk
Independent charity working to reduce alcohol misuse and harm in the UK. The website has free drink trackers and tools to assess your own drinking levels.
Drinkline
Phone: 0300 123 1110 (Freephone, 9am-8pm Mon-Fri; 11am-4pm Sat-Sun)
Drinkline is a free, confidential national helpline for people who are concerned about their own or someone else’s drinking.
DrugScience
Website: www.drugscience.org.uk
DrugScience is an independent, science-led drugs charity which provides objective information on drugs and drug harms to the public, educators and academics.
Dual Recovery Anonymous UK & Ireland
Phone: 0300 124 0373
Website: www.draonline.org
Organisation running self-help groups for those with dual diagnosis (a substance use issue alongside diagnosed mental health issue), based on 12 Step model of recovery.
Gamblers Anonymous UK
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Gamblers Anonymous runs self-help groups across the UK for anyone affected by addictive gambling behaviours who wants to change, based on 12 step model of recovery.
Marijuana Anonymous UK
Phone: 0300 124 0373
Email: helpline@marijuana-anonymous.org.uk
Website: www.marijuana-anonymous.org.uk
Organisation running self-help groups across the UK for those with substance use issues relating to marijuana, based on 12 step model of recovery.
Narcotics Anonymous UK
Phone: 0300 999 1212 (Helpline, 10am-12am, 7 days a week)
Email: meetings@ukna.org
Website: www.ukna.org
Narcotics Anonymous runs self-help groups across the UK for anyone affected by drug use who wants to change, based on 12 step model of recovery.
Progress
Website: www.dualdiagnosis.co.uk
Progress are a consortium of consultant nurses working in dual diagnosis and substance use settings. Their website provides information on dual diagnosis for people in treatment, carers and professionals.
Talk to Frank
Phone: 0300 123 6600 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) Text: 82111
Email: frank@talktofrank.com
Website: www.talktofrank.com
Talk to Frank is the national drug education service established in 2003. It provides information on legal and illegal drugs for teenagers and adolescents, including a confidential information line and live chat services on its website.
UK SMART Recovery
Website: www.smartrecovery.org.uk
Provides training to help people manage their recovery from any type of addictive behaviour, including alcohol and substance use as well as gambling, sex, eating, shopping etc. through a range of self-help meetings.
Anxiety
Anxiety UK
Phone: 08444 775 774 (Infoline, 9.30am-5.30pm, Mon-Fri) Text: 07537 416 905
Email: support@anxietyuk.org.uk
Website: www.anxietyuk.org.uk
Anxiety UK is a national charity run by people with lived experience of anxiety, aiming to support everyone affected by anxiety through information and support. This includes talking therapies and self-help groups.
No Panic
Phone: 0844 967 4848 (Helpline, 10am-10pm, 7 days a week)
Phone: 01753 840 393 (Youth helpline for 13 to 20-year olds, 4-6pm Mon-Fri)
Email: admin@nopanic.org.uk
Website: www.nopanic.org.uk
No Panic is a charity which helps people who experience any kind of anxiety disorder. It specialises in self-help based recovery via their helpline and resources available on their website.
OCD Action
Phone: 0845 390 6232
Email: support@ocdaction.org.uk
Website: www.ocdaction.org.uk
OCD Action is the national charity focusing on obsessive compulsive disorder. It provides support and information to those affected by OCD and works to increase awareness of it. Runs a variety of self-help groups across the country as well as online support groups and advocacy services.
OCD-UK
Phone: 0845 120 3778
Email: support@ocduk.org
Website: www.ocduk.org
OCD-UK is a national charity working with and for children and adults affected by obsessive compulsive disorder. Provides a wide range of information on OCD, and runs self-help services including telephone support groups, online chats and support forums.
Triumph over Phobia
Phone: 01225 571 740
Email: info@topuk.org
Website: www.topuk.org
Triumph over Phobia is a UK charity which aims to help sufferers of phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder and other related anxiety to overcome their fears.
Armed Forces
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity
Phone: 0207 901 8900
Email: supportercare@soldierscharity.org
Website: www.soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is the national charity of the British Army, providing support for every soldier or veteran and their families for life.
Combat Stress
Phone: 0800 138 1619 (Freephone, 24-hour helpline, 7 days a week) Text: 07537 404 719
Email: combatstress@rethink.org
Website: www.combatstress.org.uk
The UK’s leading Veteran’s mental health charity, providing treatment and support services for all ex service personnel, through a helpline, community and outreach support and several dedicated treatment centres.
Help for Heroes
Phone: 01980 844 280
Website: www.helpforheroes.org.uk
Help for Heroes provides direct support for wounded, injured and sick veterans and serving members of the Armed Forces and their families, including mental health support.
PTSD Resolution
Phone: 0300 302 0551 (9am-5pm, Mon-Fri)
Email: coord@ptsdresolution.org
Website: www.ptsdresolution.org
PTSD Resolution helps veterans, TA and reservists who are struggling to reintegrate into a normal work and family life because of military trauma suffered during service in the Armed Forces. Coordinate a network of 200 accredited therapists with a focus in military PTSD.
The Royal British Legion
Phone: 0808 802 8080 (8am-8pm, 7 days a week)
Email: info@britishlegion.org.uk
Website: www.britishlegion.org.uk
The Royal British Legion helps members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families. They also campaign to improve their lives, organise the Poppy Appeal and remember the fallen.
SSAFA
Phone: 0800 731 4880 (Freephone helpline)
Website: www.ssafa.org.uk
SSAFA is an independent charity which provides lifelong support to anyone who is currently serving or has ever served in the Royal Navy, British Army or Royal Air Force, including running free and confidential helpline support.
Bereavement
Bereavement Advice Centre
Phone: 0800 634 9494 (Freephone helpline, 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri)
Website: www.bereavementadvice.org
The Bereavement Advice Centre supports and advises people after a death in England and Wales. Their website and helpline provide help with the wide range of practical issues that need to be managed after a bereavement as well as signposting to other support.
Child Bereavement UK
Phone: 0800 028 8840 (Freephone helpline, 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri)
Email: support@childbereavementuk.org
Website: www.childbereavementuk.org
Supports families and educates professionals when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying, or when a child is facing bereavement. Runs a dedicated helpline as well as individual, couple’s and family support sessions and groups across the country.
The Compassionate Friends
Phone: 0345 123 2304 (National helpline, see website for opening hours)
Email: helpline@tcf.org.uk
Website: www.tcf.org.uk
The Compassionate Friends is a charitable organisation of bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents dedicated to providing peer support for other bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents.
Cruse Bereavement Care
Phone: 0808 808 1677 (Helpline, see website for opening hours)
Email: helpline@cruse.org.uk
Website: www.cruse.org.uk
Cruse Bereavement Care offer support, advice and information to children, young people and adults when someone dies. They run a helpline as well as bereavement counselling as well as facilitated self-help groups across the country.
Dying Matters
Phone: 0800 021 4466
Website: www.dyingmatters.org
A coalition of 32,000 members across England and Wales which aims to help people talk more openly about dying, death and bereavement, and to make plans for the end of life.
Lullaby Trust
Phone: 0808 802 6868 (Freephone helpline, see website for opening hours)
Email: support@lullabytrust.org.uk
Website: www.lullabytrust.org.uk
The Lullaby Trust provides specialist support for bereaved families and anyone affected by a sudden infant death.
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide
Phone: 0300 111 5065 (Helpline, 9am-9pm, 7 days a week)
Email: sobs.support@hotmail.com
Website: www.uk-sobs.org.uk
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide is the national charity to meet the needs and break the isolation experienced by those bereaved by suicide. A self-help organisation which provides support via a range of means, including through a national helpline, via email and through running self-help groups.
Winston’s Wish
Phone: 08452 030405 (Helpline)
Email: info@winstonswish.org.uk
Website: www.winstonswish.org.uk
Winston’s Wish is the leading childhood bereavement charity in the UK. Offers practical support and guidance to bereaved children, their families and professionals.
Bipolar disorder
Bipolar UK
Phone: 0333 323 3880
Email: info@bipolaruk.org
Website: www.bipolaruk.org
Bipolar UK is the national charity dedicated to supporting individuals with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, as well as their families and carers. Provide information through their website and via phone and also run national self-help support groups, online support and employment support.
Carers
Carers Trust
Phone: 0844 800 4361
Email: support@carers.org
Website: www.carers.org
The Carers Trust is a major new charity for, with and about carers. They work to support carers through a wide range of information, providing respite care services and online peer support, including dedicated community for young carers under 18.
Carers UK
Phone: 08008 808 7777 (Freephone Adviceline, 10am-4pm, Mon-Fri)
Website: www.carersuk.org
Carers UK aims to make life better for carers, by providing advice on a range of issues, including financial and practical matters relating to caring, and running an online peer support community of carers across the UK.
Creativity and mental health
Core Arts
Phone: 020 8533 3500
Website: www.corearts.co.uk
Core Arts is a leading mental health day care service in Hackney, London, using arts and creativity to support people with mental health issues and enabling them to fulfil their potential and participate fully in their community.
Creative Response
Phone: 0125 271 6876
Email: contact@creativeresponsearts.org
Website: www.creativeresponsearts.org
Creative Response is an independent arts related organisation using both visual and performance related arts as a catalyst in a therapeutic environment to support people with mental health or substance use issues.
Sound Minds
Phone: 0207 207 1786
Email: staff@soundminds.co.uk
Website: www.soundminds.co.uk
London based Sound Minds is a social enterprise aiming to transform the lives of people experiencing mental ill health through participation in arts activity. Run by people with lived experience of mental ill health it runs sessions in music, visual arts, video editing and drama.
Crime victims
Victims’ Information Service
Phone: 0808 168 923 (Freephone)
Website: www.victimsinformationservice.org.uk
The Victims’ Information Service is a free nationwide service which helps people find local support after a crime takes place. It brings together information on what will happen after reporting a crime, people that may be involved, help that should be provided and how to complain if something goes wrong.
Victim Support
Phone: 0808 1689 111 (Freephone, 8pm-8am Mon-Fri, Weekends 24 hours)
Website: www.victimsupport.org.uk
Victim Support is an independent charity working towards a world where people affected by crime or traumatic events get the support they need and the respect they deserve. They run a confidential free helpline for anyone affected by crime as well as emotional and practical support, including advice on reporting a crime and processes involved in going to court and what happens during a trial.
Debt
Money Advice Service
Phone: 0800 138 7777 (Freephone, 9am-8pm Mon-Fri, 9.30am-1pm Sat)
Website: www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk
A free independent service set up by the government that provides information on all money related matters via a helpline, online information and free web chats.
National Debtline
Phone: 0808 808 4000 (Freephone, 9am-8pm Mon-Fri, 9.30am-1pm Sat)
Website: www.nationaldebtline.org
The National Debtline is an independent charity which provides free, confidential specialist advice on managing financial debt via a helpline, online information and free web chats.
Stepchange
Phone: 0800 138 1111 (Freephone helpline)
Website: www.stepchange.org
Charity Stepchange provides free advice on problem debt and debt management.
Depression
Association for Postnatal Illness
Phone: 0207 386 0868 (10am-2pm, Mon-Fri)
Email: info@apni.org
Website: www.apni.org
APNI provides support for all women who experience postnatal depression. Provide peer support services via phone and email.
Charlie Waller Memorial Trust
Phone: 01635 869 754
Email: admin@cwmt.org
Website: www.cwmt.org.uk
The Trust was set up in 1998 in memory of Charlie Waller, a young man who took his own life due to depression. His family founded the Trust in order to educate young people on the importance of staying mentally well and how to do so. The Trust delivers training in a wide range of settings to raise awareness of depression and to remove the stigma attached to mental ill health.
Depression Alliance
Phone: 0207 407 7584
Email: info@depressionalliance.org
Website: www.depressionalliance.org
Depression alliance is a charity which aims to bring people with lived experience of depression together to end the loneliness and isolation so often associated with depression. It coordinates online and offline communities and wellbeing networks where people can share their experiences around depression and runs a large number of local self-help groups.
Depression UK
Email: info@depressionuk.org
Website: www.depressionuk.org
Depression UK is a national self-help organisation that offers support to everyone affected by depression.
PANDAS Foundation
Phone: 0843 2898 401 (9am-8pm, 7 days a week)
Email: info@pandasfoundation.org.uk
Website: www.pandasfoundation.org.uk
The PANDAS Foundation provides support services for everyone affected by perinatal mental health issues (including perinatal depression and psychosis), via the phone, online communities and in person support groups. It also provides support for partners affected by caring for someone with perinatal mental health issues.
Eating Disorders
ABC (Anorexia & Bulimia Care)
Phone: 0300 011 1213 (Helpline)
Email: support@anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk
Website: www.anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk
Anorexia & Bulimia Care is a national UK eating disorders organisation providing ongoing care, emotional support and practical guidance for anyone affected by eating disorders. Includes nutritional guidance/support and befriending services.
Beat
Phone: 0345 634 1414 (Helpline, for anyone over 18)
Phone: 0345 634 7650 (Youthline, for anyone under 25)
Email: help@b-eat.co.uk (18 or over) or fyp@b-eat.co.uk (25 or under)
Website: www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk
Beat is the UK’s leading charity supporting anyone affected by eating disorders. Runs helplines for adults and young people, online support as well as peer support groups across the country.
MGEDT (Men Get Eating Disorders Too!)
Email: sam@mengetedstoo.co.uk
Website: www.mengetedstoo.co.uk
National charity raising awareness of eating disorders in men. Also provides peer support services for men affected by eating disorders.
Employment and mental health
ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)
Phone: 0300 123 1100
Website: www.acas.org.uk
Acas provides free and impartial information and advice to employers and employees on all aspects of workplace relations and employment law. Supports good relationships between employers and employees, but also provides conciliation services to resolve workplace problems.
BITC (Business in the Community)
Phone: 020 7566 8650
Email: info@bitc.org.uk
Website: www.bitc.org.uk
Business in the Community is the Prince’s Responsible Business Network. Its members work together to tackle a wide range of issues essential to building a fairer society and more sustainable future. BITC provide a range of services, practical guidance and creative solutions that help businesses review, improve, measure and report. BITC has also launched a toolkit resource, helpful for all organisations that are exploring how to embed a wellbeing strategy into their organisation. The toolkit is available from the following link: https://wellbeing.bitc.org.uk/all-resources/toolkits/communicating-your-mental-health-and-wellbeing-strategy (Accessed 07/07/2016)
DoH guidance on workplace adjustments for mental health
Available from the following link: https://www.nhshealthatwork.co.uk/images/library/files/Government%20policy/Mental_Health_Adjustments_Guidance_May_2012.pdf (Accessed 07/07/2016)
The Department of Health published this advice on providing reasonable adjustments for mental health conditions, outlining examples of adaptations and good practice on applying any adjustments.
Fit For Work
Phone: 0800 032 6235
Website: www.fitforwork.org
Fit for Work is a voluntary service that offers the wider working population access to occupational health (OH) advice and support. Employers can refer employees who’ve been off work for four weeks or more a free ‘fit for work’ assessment. On the website you will find more information, an employer’s guide and a stress risk assessment tool.
Health in Construction Leadership Group
Phone: 0113 261 5368
Website: www.healthinconstruction.co.uk
Health In Construction Leadership Group works with construction CEO’s to improve health within the sector, with a current focus on mental health. Brings together contractors, clients, the Health and Safety Executive, professional bodies, trade associations and trade unions.
The City Mental Health Alliance
Email: cmha@citymha.org.uk
Website: www.citymha.org.uk
The City Mental Health Alliance is a coalition of organisations that have come together to create an environment in the City of London where mental health is discussed in the same way as physical health. Championed by senior business leaders, it is closely supported by UK mental health organisations MHFA England and Mind.
Education Support Partnership
Phone: 0800 0562 561 (Freephone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Text: 07909 341 229
Email: support@edsupport.org.uk
Website: www.educationsupportpartnership.org.uk
Provides free confidential counselling for teachers, including online chat services.
Mental Health Foundation workplace resources
Website: www.mentalhealth.org.uk/tags/workplace
The Mental Health Foundation has developed a range of resources aimed at tackling mental health in the workplace. This includes the helpful guide ‘Managing mental health in the workplace’, produced with employee benefits specialist Unum. Available at the link above.
Mindful Employer
Phone: 01392 677 064
Email: info@mindfulemployer.net
Website: www.mindfulemployer.net
Mindful Employer aims to increase awareness of mental health at work and provides easily accessible information to organisations and supports for staff who experience stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions.
Mind’s guide to workplace mental health
Website: www.mind.org.uk/workplace/mental-health-at-work
Mental health charity Mind’s dedicated website section on workplace mental health provides guidance to help employers take care of themselves and their staff. Mind has also published the Employers’ Guide to Mentally Healthy Workplaces, which discusses what poor workplace wellbeing is, what a mentally healthy workplace looks like, and how to create mentally healthy workplaces. Available from: www.mind. org.uk/media/43719/EMPLOYERS_guide.pdf (Accessed 07/07/2016)
Richmond Fellowship
Phone: 0207 697 3300
Website: www.richmondfellowship.org.uk
The Richmond Fellowships is one of the largest voluntary sector organisations providing support for people with mental health problems. Its aim is to work towards a society that values everyone with mental health issues, through providing supported housing and employment support services to help people find work or stay in work.
This is Me
Website: www.thelordmayorsappeal.org/a-healthy-city/this-is-me
A City wide mental health campaign, first developed by Barclays as part of the Lord Mayor’s 2016 Power of Diversity programme, run in partnership with Business Healthy and the City Mental Health Alliance and supported by City AM. Aims to reduce stigma around mental health in the workplace and raise awareness of wellbeing.
Time to Change’s guide to workplace mental health
Website: http://www.time-to-change.org.uk/get-involved/get-your-workplace-involved/support-managers
Anti-stigma campaign Time to Change has a dedicated website section providing guidance, tips and tricks on many aspects of dealing with mental health in the workplace, including legal guidance and onwards signposting to additional resources.
Shaw Trust
Phone: 01225 716 300
Website: www.shaw-trust.org.uk
The Shaw Trust is the UK’s largest third sector provider of employment services for disabled and disadvantaged people.
Family, parenting and relationships
Family Action
Phone: 020 7254 6251
Email: info@family-action.org.uk
Website: www.family-action.org.uk
Family Action transforms lives by providing practical, emotional and financial support to those who are experiencing poverty, disadvantage and social isolation across England. They aim to strengthen families and communities by building skills and resilience. Their support services include a focus on parental mental health issues, including issues such as perinatal depression.
Family Links
Email: info@familylinks.org.uk
Website: www.familylinks.org.uk
Family Links is a national charity dedicated to creating an emotionally healthy, resilient and responsible society through a range of training programmes. They train people to run parent groups in local communities and also provide step by step guides for parents on their website.
Family Lives
Phone: 0808 800 2222 (Freephone helpline, see website for opening hours)
Website: www.familylives.org.uk
Family Lives is a national family support charity providing help and support in all aspects of family life. They run a dedicated confidential helpline and provide a range of information on issues relating to parenting.
Relate
Phone: 0300 100 1234
Website: www.relate.org.uk
Relate is a national charity offering a range of services to help with couple and family relationships, including counselling support and therapy focusing on relationship issues.
General advice, information and support
Citizen’s Advice
Phone: 03444 111 444 (National phone service being rolled out at time of writing of this manual)
Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Citizen’s Advice provides free, independent information and advice for people on money, legal, consumer, housing and other problems. Its website is searchable for local citizen’s advice bureaus and also has a dedicated web chat service.
Gov.uk
Website: www.gov.uk
Gov.uk is the first point of contact for information on all government services, including money, tax, benefits, disability, employment and carers’ rights.
Health Talk
Website: www.healthtalk.org
Health Talk provides free, reliable information about health issues, by sharing people’s real-life experiences.
Men’s Health Forum
Email: manmot@menshealthforum.org.uk
Website: www.menshealthforum.org.uk
Men’s Health Forum provide free, independent health information focusing on male health issues, including particular projects around men’s mental health.
NHS Choices
Website: www.nhs.uk
NHS Choices provides a wide range of accessible information on all health-related issues, including symptoms, conditions, treatments and local NHS services available. This includes a dedicated section on mental health (under the ‘Live Well’ heading).
General mental health
Action for Happiness
Website: www.actionforhappiness.org
Action for Happiness is not-for-profit creating a movement of people committed to building a happier and more caring society, by helping people to take practical action drawing on the latest scientific research. Their vision is a happier world, with fewer people suffering with mental health problems and more people feeling good, functioning well and helping others. Its website provides many resources and evidence-based ideas for actions we can take to feel happier and help to reduce and prevent mental ill health – personally, in our communities, workplaces and schools.
Mind
Phone: 0300 123 3393 (Mind Infoline, see above)
Email: info@mind.org.uk
Website: www.mind.org.uk
Mind provide a wide range of services relating to mental health, including information, support as well as research and campaigning work. The national Mind organisation also acts as an umbrella organisation to many independent local Mind organisations, which provide different services across the country, e.g. therapy services, self-help groups and alternative therapies.
Rethink Mental Illness
Phone: 0121 522 7007 (General enquiries)
Email: info@rethink.org
Website: www.rethink.org
Rethink Mental Illness provide a range of support, advice and information services relating to mental illness, as well as conducting national campaigns and research. Rethink runs over 200 mental health services and 150 support groups across England, including therapy services, peer support groups and many more.
Sane
Phone: 0203 805 1790 (General enquiries)
Email: info@sane.org.uk
Website: www.sane.org.uk
In addition to running Saneline (see above), Sane also aims to improve the lives of anyone affected by mental illness through campaigning work, research and online support services.
Together for Mental Wellbeing
Phone: 0207 780 7300
Email: contact-us@together-uk.org
Website: www.together-uk.org
Together is a national charity working alongside people with mental health issues. It provides a range of specialist support services, including peer support services, accommodation-based support, criminal justice mental health services and advocacy.
Learning disabilities
Mencap
Phone: 0808 808 1111 (9am-5pm, Mon-Fri)
Email: help@mencap.org.uk
Website: www.mencap.org.uk
Mencap works in partnership with people with a learning disability, their families and carers to provide a range of support services.
Hft
Phone: 0117 906 1700
Website: www.hft.org.uk
Hft is a national charity providing services for people with learning disabilities throughout England through personalised support services.
Generate
Phone: 0208 879 6333
Website: www.generate-uk.org
Generate is a charity which aims to support the lives of people with a learning difficulty.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT)
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Switchboard
Phone: 0300 330 0630 (Local call rates, 10am-11pm, 7 days a week)
Email: chris@switchboard.lgbt
Website: www.switchboard.lgbt
Confidential support, information and referral services for the LGBT community, including online chat services.
Stonewall
Phone: 0800 050 2020 (Freephone information service)
Email: info@stonewall.org.uk
Website: www.stonewall.org.uk
Stonewall supports all lesbian, gay, bi and trans people with a range of help and advice services and by working in partnership with businesses and communities to tackle issues related to discrimination.
Nutrition & mental health
Food for the Brain
Phone: 0300 365 0130
Email: info@foodforthebrain.org
Website: www.foodforthebrain.org
Food for the Brain are a charitable foundation raising awareness of the importance of optimum nutrition in mental health. They work to inform organisations and empower individuals to change their diet and lifestyle and taker greater control of their own mental health. The also run the Brain Bio Centre, a not for profit clinic focusing on tailored nutrition support for people with mental health issues.
Older people
Age UK
Phone: 0800 169 2081 (Freephone adviceline)
Website: www.ageuk.org.uk
AgeUK provides a range of information and support services for older people and those caring for them. Includes befriending services to combat loneliness in elderly people, which may contribute to mental health issues.
Alzheimer’s Society
Phone: 0300 222 1122 (Helpline, see website for opening hours)
Email: enquiries@alzheimers.org.uk
Website: www.alzheimers.org.uk
The Alzheimer’s Society provides a range of information and support services for anyone affected by dementia.
Dementia UK
Phone: 0800 888 6678 (Freephone helpline)
Email: direct@dementiauk.org
Website: www.dementiauk.org
Dementia UK offers specialist one to one support and expert advice for people living with dementia, including nursing support through their team of Admiral Nurses.
Personality disorder
Emergence
Email: admin@emergenceplus.org.uk
Website: www.emergenceplus.org.uk
Emergence is a service user led organisation with the overarching aim of supporting all people affected by personality disorder, including service users, carers, family and friends and professionals.
Personality disorder – no longer a diagnosis of exclusion
Website: www.personalitydisorder.org.uk
The website for the Department of Health’s National Personality Disorder Programme, which provides a range of resources, including a service finder and details of pilot projects relating to personality disorder.
Personality disorder – knowledge and understanding framework
Website: www.personalitydisorderkuf.org.uk
The Knowledge and Understanding Framework is the national training framework to support people to work more effectively with personality disorder.
Physical first aid
British Red Cross
Phone: 0344 871 1111
Email: information@redcross.org.uk
Website: www.redcross.org.uk
The British Red Cross is one of the largest providers of accredited first aid training in the UK.
St John Ambulance
Phone: 0844 770 4800 (for training course enquiries)
Website: www.sja.org.uk
St John Ambulance is the nation’s leading first aid charity, with an aim to teach everyone simple, lifesaving skills.
Psychosis
Action on Postpartum Psychosis
Phone: 0203 3229 900
Email: app@app-network.org
Website: www.app-network.org
Action on Postpartum Psychosis is a network of women with lived experience of postnatal psychosis, professionals and academics in the field. It offers peer support to families affected by postnatal psychosis, raises awareness and supports research into its causes.
Hearing Voices Network
Phone: 0114 271 8210
Email: nhvn@hotmail.co.uk
Website: www.hearing-voices.org
The Hearing Voices Network is committed to helping people who hear voices, see visions and experience tactical sensations and those that support them. They run a range of self-help groups and deliver training for professionals and the general public.
Voice Collective
Phone: 0207 911 0822
Email: info@voicecollective.co.uk
Website: www.voicecollective.co.uk
The Voice Collective is a London wide project that supports children and young people who hear voices, see visions or have other unusual sensory experiences. It also offers support for parents/ families and training for professionals.
Refugees
Refugeee Council
Phone: 020 7346 6700
Website: www.refugeecouncil.org.uk
The UK’s largest organization working with refugees and asylum seekers. Includes the provision of specialist therapeutic services targeted to the needs of these populations.
Research and policy
Centre for Mental Health
Phone: 020 7827 8300
Email: contact@centreformentalhealth.org.uk
Website: www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk
The UK’s leading authority in mental health research. Using research to change people’s lives.
Department of Health
Website: www.dh.gov.uk
The aim of the Department of Health is to help people to live better for longer. Its site provides information on health and social care policy and guidance publications and statistics.
DrugWise
Website: www.drugwise.org.uk
DrugWise provides a comprehensive resource of research information, statistics and reports relating to drugs, alcohol and tobacco.
Gov.uk policy information
Website: www.gov.uk
A comprehensive range of documents/reports on current government policy, including topics such as carers’ health and mental health service reform.
Mental Health Foundation
Phone: 020 7803 1100
Website: www.mentalhealth.org.uk
Improving the lives of those with mental health problems or learning difficulties, through research, policy work and running awareness campaigns like Mental Health Awareness Week.
Public Health England
Website: www.phe.gov.uk
Public Health England is the national public health agency. It aims to protect and improve the nation’s health and wellbeing and reduce health inequalities. Its site provides public health research and policy publications.
Royal College of Psychiatrists
Phone: 020 7235 2351
Email: reception@rcpsych.ac.uk
Website: www.rcpsych.ac.uk
The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional medical body responsible for oversight of psychiatrists in the UK. It provides training, conducts research and sets standards for the profession, and also provides information for the general public on mental health issues and mental health services and treatments.
Self-harm
Harmless
Email: info@harmless.org.uk
Website: www.harmless.org.uk
Harmless is a user led organisation that provides a range of services about self-harm, including support, information, training and consultancy to people who self-harm, their friends and families and professionals. Includes resources on alternative coping strategies.
NSHN (National Self Harm Network)
Website: www.nshn.co.uk
The National Self Harm Network offers an online moderated support forum for people affected by self-harm.
selfharmUK
Website: www.selfharm.co.uk
selfharmUK is a project dedicated to supporting young people impacted by self-harm, providing a safe space to talk, ask any questions and be honest about what’s going on in their lives. It allows people to share their personal stories around self-harm and receive answers online. Run by national charity Youthscape.
Self-injury Support
Phone: 0808 800 8088 (Freephone helpline, 7pm- 10pm, Mon-Fri)
Website: www.selfinjurysupport.org.uk
Self-injury Support is a national organisation that supports girls and women affected by self-injury or self-harm. They run a dedicated self-injury helpline, as well as text and email support for girls and young women under 24 years of age and supports self-injury self-help groups.
Self-help apps and online resources
Big White Wall
Website: www.bigwhitewall.com
A safe online community of people who are anxious, down, or not coping who support and help each other by sharing what’s troubling them, guided by trained professionals. Also available as an app.
CBT Online
Website: https://moodgym.com.au
An interactive site that teaches people cognitive behavioural therapy skills to prevent and cope with depression.
Down Your Drink
Website: www.downyourdrink.org.uk
Down Your Drink is a free website-based programme allowing people to look more closely at their drinking and examine ways of cutting down. Developed by a team of researchers at University College London and endorsed by Alcohol Concern.
Elefriends
Website: www.elefriends.org.uk
Run by mental health charity Mind, Elefriends aims to provide a safe, supportive online community where everyone can share experiences relating to mental ill health and get support from people with similar experiences.
FearFighterTM
Website: http://fearfighter.cbtprogram.com
A NICE guideline approved, evidence-based online program for generalised anxiety, panic and phobia. Uses CBT principles.
Get Self Help
Website: www.getselfhelp.co.uk
This website offers free cognitive behavioural based self-help and therapy resources, including worksheets and self-help mp3s.
Headspace
Website: www.headspace.com
App based around teaching mindfulness meditation principles to improve wellbeing.
Moodscope
Website: www.moodscope.com
Web-based mood tracking and management platform.
Moodpanda
Website: www.moodpanda.com
Mood panda is an app-based platform allowing people to track their moods.
Scottish Recovery Network
Website: www.scottishrecovery.net
The Scottish Recovery Network explores mental health recovery using narrative or storytelling philosophical approaches to mental health.
Sleepio
Website: www.sleepio.com
App for sleep management combining cognitive behavioural principles and the latest in sleep research.
Stay Alive App
Website: https://www.prevent-suicide.org.uk/stay_alive_suicide_prevention_mobile_phone_application.html
The Stay Alive app is a suicide prevention pocket app for the UK, developed by Grassroots Suicide prevention. It allows users to create a list of resources and strategies to stay safe from suicide and links into crisis support available.
The Tidal Model
Website: www.tidal-model.com
The Tidal Model is a philosophical approach/ mental health recovery model used by mental health nurses and people using mental health services.
Wellbeing Podcasts
Website: www.mentalhealth.org.uk/podcasts-and-videos
The Mental Health Foundation has created a series of free audio podcasts to improve wellbeing, including guided relaxation, mindfulness practise and overcoming fear and anxiety.
Wellness Recovery Action Planning (WRAP®)
Website: www.mentalhealthrecovery.com
Provides information on using WRAP® as part of mental health recovery approaches
WorkGuru
Website: www.workguru.org
Web-based stress management programme providing tools to build resilience and manage stress in a workplace setting.
Self-help books
8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder: Effective Strategies from Therapeutic Practice and Personal Experience
Costin, C. 8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder: Effective Strategies from Therapeutic Practice and Personal Experience. W.W. Norton & Company; 2012
An exploration of recovery from eating disorders, weaving together professional and personal accounts.
10 Keys to Happier Living – A Practical Handbook
King, V. 10 Keys to Happier Living – A Practical Handbook. London: Headline Publishing Group; 2016
A readable, insightful and practical book covering the key areas we can take action in to enhance our happiness and psychological wellbeing and help reduce and prevent depression and anxiety. It provides a menu of evidence-based ideas for practical actions we can take in our daily lives and explains why these matter.
Beating the Blues
Tanner, S. & Ball, J. Beating the Blues. Sydney: Southwood Press; 1991
A very readable step-by-step self-help programme for depression using cognitive-behavioural therapy.
Coming Through Depression: A Mindful Approach to Recovery
Bates, T. Coming Through Depression: A Mindful Approach to Recovery Newleaf; 2011
A practical guide to recovery from depression using mindfulness-based approaches.
The Compassionate Mind
Gilbert, P. The Compassionate Mind. Constable; 2010
By the inventor of compassion-focussed therapy, this book explores how developing compassion for self-help and others can contribute to mental wellbeing and build resilience.
The Complete Family Guide to Schizophrenia: Helping Your Loved One Get the Most Out of Life
Mueser, K. T. The Complete Family Guide to Schizophrenia: Helping Your Loved One Get the Most Out of Life. Guildford Press; 2006
An exploration of how to support someone with a diagnosis of schizophrenia.
Coping with Bipolar Disorder: A CBR-Informed Guide to Living with Manic Depression
Jones, S. Coping with Bipolar Disorder: A CBR-Informed Guide to Living with Manic Depression. Oneworld Publications; 2009
A self-help guide to bipolar disorder, influenced by cognitive behavioural principles.
The First Episode of Psychosis: A Guide for Patients and Their Families
Compton, M. T. The First Episode of Psychosis: A Guide for Patients and Their Families. Oxford University Press; 2009
A helpful guide to psychosis, early warning signs, treatments allowing families and patients to better navigate an initial episode of psychosis.
Getting Better Bite by Bite: A Survival Kit for Sufferers of Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorders
Schmidt, U. Getting Better Bite by Bite: A Survival Kit for Sufferers of Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorders. Routledge Press; 2015
A self-help guide to bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder, based on cognitive behavioural therapy principles.
A Head Full of Blue
Johnstone, N. Head Full of Blue. London: Bloomsbury; 2003
A personal account of the effects of suffering from depression, anxiety disorder and alcoholism.
I Had a Black Dog: his name was depression
Johnstone, M. I Had a Black Dog. Robinson; 2007
A graphical exploration/comic book providing an insight into what it is like to experience depression.
Living with a Black Dog: How to take care of someone with depression while looking after yourself
Johnstone, M. Living with a Black Dog. Robinson; 2009
A graphical exploration/comic book providing an insight into what it is like to care for someone who experiences depression.
Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Finding Peace in a Frantic World
Williams, M. & Penman, D. Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Finding Peace in a Frantic World. Piathus; 2011
Based on Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) this self-help book teaches simple meditation strategies to break the cycle of depression, stress and anxiety.
Mind Over Mood: Change How You Feel by Changing the Way You Think
Greenberger, D. & Padesky, C.A. Mind over Mood: Change How you Feel by Changing the Way You Think. Guildford Press; 2015
A self-help guide to overcoming emotional distress using cognitive behavioural therapy techniques.
The Mindful Way Through Anxiety: Break Free from Chronic Worry and Reclaim Your Life
Orsillo, S. M. The Mindful Way Through Anxiety: Break Free from Chronic Worry and Reclaim Your Life. Guildford Press; 2011
A mindfulness-based self-help approach to anxiety.
The Mindful Way Through Depression: Freeling Yourself from Chronic Unhappiness
Williams, M. The Mindful Way Through Depression: Freeling Yourself from Chronic Unhappiness. Guildford Press; 2007
A mindfulness-based self-help approach to depression.
Overcoming Anxiety: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques
Kennerley, H. Overcoming Anxiety: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques. Robinson; 2014
A self-help guide to anxiety based on cognitive behavioural therapy.
Overcoming Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Workbook for Managing Your Symptoms and Achieving Your Life Goals
Bauer, M. Overcoming Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Workbook for Managing Your Symptoms and Achieving Your Life Goals. New Harbinger Publications; 2009
A step-by-step self-help guide to bipolar disorder.
Overcoming Bulimia Nervosa and Binge-Eating: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques
Cooper, P. Overcoming Bulimia Nervosa and Binge- Eating: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques. Robinson; 2009
A step-by-step self-help guide to bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder.
Overcoming Depression: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques
Gilbert, P. Overcoming Depression: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques. Robinson; 2009
A self-help manual for depression based on cognitive-behavioural therapy.
Overcoming Mood Swings: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques
Scott, J. Overcoming Mood Swings: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques. Robinson; 2010
A self-help manual for anyone experiencing mood swings between depression and mania, based on cognitive-behavioural therapy.
Overcoming Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques
Veale, D. Overcoming Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques. Robinson; 2009
A self-help manual for obsessive-compulsive disorder based on cognitive-behavioural therapy
Overcoming Panic and Agoraphobia: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques
Silvoe, D. Overcoming Panic and Agoraphobia: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques. Robinson; 2009
A self-help manual for panic disorder based on cognitive-behavioural therapy.
Overcoming Social Anxiety and Shyness: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques
Butler, G. Overcoming Social Anxiety and Shyness: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques. Robinson; 2009
A self-help guide to social anxiety based on cognitive behavioural therapy.
Overcoming Traumatic Stress: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques
Wetmore, A. Overcoming Traumatic Stress: A self-help guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques. Robinson; 2009
A self-help guide to PTSD based on cognitive behavioural therapy.
Sober for Good: New Solutions for Drinking Problems – Advice from Those Who Have Succeeded
Fletcher, A. Sober for Good: New Solutions for Drinking Problems – Advice from Those Who Have Succeeded. Houghton Mifflin Company; 2002
An exploration of recovery from problem drinking, taking account of varied lived experience.
Quiet the Mind: An Illustrated Guide on How to Meditate
Johnstone, M. Quiet the Mind. Robinson; 2012
A graphical exploration/comic book providing an insight into what it is like to meditate.
Stigma
Time to Change
Website: www.time-to-change.org.uk
Time to Change is the main national anti-stigma campaign, run by leading mental health charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness.
Students (Higher Education)
Nightline
Phone: Numbers vary, check website for local nightline numbers available
Website: www.nightline.ac.uk
The nightline association provides listening, support and information helplines run by university students for university students, including about mental health related issues.
Student Minds
Email: info@studentminds.org.uk
Website: www.studentminds.org.uk
Student Minds is the UK’s student mental health charity, aiming to provide students with the skills, knowledge and confidence to talk about their mental health and support their peers.
Suicide prevention
ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training)
Website: www.livingworks.net
ASIST is a 2-day training course that teaches people how to intervene when someone is suicidal.
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
Phone: 0800 58 58 58 (Helpline, 5pm-midnight, 7 days a week)
Email: info@thecalmzone.net
Website: www.thecalmzone.net
The Campaign Against Living Miserably is a charity which exists to prevent male suicide in the UK. They run a dedicated support line and online webchat for men who are experiencing emotional distress or who are in crisis. It also seeks to challenge a culture that prevents men from seeking help when they need it.
Grassroots
Email: office@prevent-suicide.org.uk
Website: www.prevent-suicide.org.uk
Grassroots is a small charity focused on suicide prevention through training, consultancy and project work, including the #StayAlive app for those at risk of suicide or worried about someone else. Providers of ASIST training.
Papyrus
Phone: 0800 068 4141 (Freephone helpline, Mon-Fri 10am-10pm, weekends 2pm-10pm)
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
Website: www.papyrus-uk.org
Papyrus is the national charity for the prevention of young suicide. It runs HOPELineUK, a dedicated suicide prevention hotline for anyone up to the age of 35 who may be feeling suicidal, or anyone who is concerned about a young person.
Young people
Anna Freud Centre
Phone: 0207 794 2313
Email: info@annafreud.org
Website: www.annafreud.org
A children’s mental health charity providing specialist help and training and carrying out research.
Childline
Phone: 0800 1111 (Freephone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Website: http://www.childline.org.uk/
Provides free confidential counselling and emotional support for children and young people. Online chat services with a counsellor are also available on the website.
Place 2 Be
Phone: 0207 923 5500
Email: enquiries@place2be.org.uk
Website: www.place2be.org.uk
Place2Be provides emotional and therapeutic services in primary and secondary schools to build children’s resilience through talking, creative work and play.
Kooth
Website: www.kooth.com
Provides free online support for young people delivered by qualified counsellors via chat-based services.
STEM4
Email: enquiries@stem4.org.uk
Website: www.stem4.org.uk
STEM4 aims to improve teenage mental health by stemming commonly occurring mental health issues at an early stage.
The Mix (formerly Get Connected)
Phone: 0808 808 4994 (11am-11pm, 7 days a week)
Website: https://www.themix.org.uk/
The Mix (formerly Get Connected) is the UK’s free, confidential helpline service for young people under 25 who need help but don’t know where to turn. It provides information on a wide range of issues, including mental health related topics. Help can be accessed by phone, email or webchat, and it also runs a free telephone counselling service.
YoungMinds
Phone: 0808 802 5544 (9.30am-4pm, Mon-Fri) – Parents’ helpline
Email: ymenquiries@youngminds.org.uk
Website: www.youngminds.org.uk
YoungMinds is the UK’s leading charity committed to improving the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people through campaign, research and policy work. They also operate a parent helpline (see above) for any parents concerned about their child’s mental health, and resources for professionals working with young people.