Age UK aims to improve later life for everyone with information and advice, services, campaigns, products, training and research. They also provide information and advice for the elderly about benefits, care, age discrimination and computer courses.

Hythe & Lyminge Jubilee Day Centre: 63 Station Road, Lyminge, CT18 8HQ. To see this AGE UK location on a google map click here. Telephone: 01303 269602.

Dover Town & Rural: Riverside Centre, Maison Dieu Road, Dover, CT16 1RL. To see this AGE UK location on a google map click here. Telephone: 01304 207268.

For the national Age UK website click here.

• Comprehensive care for the elderly
• Finance, health, housing, community access, isolation etc.
• Social activities
• IT classes
• Benefits, money

http://www.ageuk.org.uk

Alcoholics Anonymous is for people who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism.

• Support for Alcohol addiction and misuse
• Group and peer support

Local groups meet all over the region:

You can find your local support group meeting by clicking here.

For more information about local services call: 0845 769 7555 or email [email protected]

www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

Hope (Kent) provide supported accommodation for homeless ex-offenders or those at risk of offending throughout Kent. Beyond Homelessness works in partnership with the Kent Probation Area of the National Probation Service.

Beyond Homelessness main aim and objective is to support and assist ex-offenders and those at risk of offending by the provision of a secure environment in which residents may acquire the skills needed for independent living.

To find out more go to the Beyond Homelessness website here: www.beyondhomelessness.org.uk or telephone: 01634 819649

Bipolar UK is a national charity dedicated to supporting individuals with bipolar, their families and carers. Bipolar UK offer practical information, advice and support by phone and email, as well as through information on their website.

Services include:

• Telephone & email support and information
• Factsheets
• Online e Community
• National network of peer support groups
• Telephone mentoring
• Youth service for people under 26
• Employment support

You can find out more at their website www.bipolaruk.org or call them on 0333 323 3880.

You can find your nearest support group through this link: www.bipolaruk.org/find-a-support-group.

Bliss is a charity for the newborn. Bliss offers advice and support to families and friends of anyone with a baby who is in, or has been in, neonatal care. Bliss can also provide advice and information to professionals working with families. Advisers may also refer families to other services, many of them free of charge. The Helpline is free to call from landlines.

Bliss exists to ensure that all babies born too soon, too small or too sick in the UK have the best possible chance of survival and of reaching their full potential.

Bliss believes:

• All premature and sick babies and their families should have the best possible care and support.
• Babies should have the same rights as anyone else.
• The voices of babies and families must be heard.

Bliss run a helpline: 0500 618140 providing family support or you can email them at: [email protected]

To find out more go to their website: www.bliss.org.uk

Carers Support offer information, advocacy, emotional and practical support as well as drop in groups and the Kent Carers Emergency Card for carers in Ashford, Shepway and Swale. They understand that carers often experience a sense of isolation, stress, guilt and anger and our staff are available to help either over the telephone or face to face.

They offer a range of support that includes:

• Meet & Talk Groups
• Drop-In Points
• Information Desks
• 1-2-1 Support
• Telephone Support
• Well-Being Check
• Carers Assessments
• Respite Opportunities
• Advocacy
• Training and Education

Carers Support, Norman House, Beaver Business Park, Beaver Road, Ashford, Kent, TN23 7SH. To see the location on a google map click here.

Tel: 01233 664393 or email: [email protected]

To go to their website click here, or go to the following link: www.carers-ashford.org.uk

CARM (Caring Altogether on Romney Marsh) provide a range of caring and support services for those living in Romney Marsh and other isolated areas. They provide local help and support for people caring as well as providing a social support network.

They run services in the following areas:

Appledore, Brookland, Greatstone, Dymchurch, Lydd, Rolvenden, Tenterden & St. Michaels & Woodchurch

Appledore Christian Centre , The Street, Appledore, Kent TN26 2AE. To see the location of this service on a map click here. Telephone: 01233 758122.

To go to their website follow the link: www.carmromneymarsh.org.uk

Catch 22 supports care leavers with the transition from the care system to adulthood and independent living, including accessing suitable and secure accommodation. Kent 16+ operates a supported lodging scheme for young people whereby they can live within a family-type environment whilst acquiring the independent living skills and emotional resilience necessary to enable them to live independently. The carers within this scheme are approved and receive comprehensive training and on-going support and supervision from the dedicated supported accommodation officers within the service.

Catch 22 services is committed to ensuring young people have the best possible chance to succeed in life, with support including:

• a dedicated worker to help each young person achieve the things that are important them
• a plan to keep track of the important things (a Pathway Plan)
• assistance in accessing and sustaining college and university
• help with gaining employability skills
• help with finances
• volunteering opportunities
• help in having their opinions heard
• referring to other specialist teams or workers
• accessing their care files.

Catch 22 services are all over and Kent and Medway to search for your local service click here.

To go to their website follow the link: www.catch-22.org.uk

Childline offers a free confidential helpline and website for young people.

If you are worried about anything, it could be something big or something small - don’t bottle it up. It can really help if you talk to someone. If there is something on your mind, ChildLine is here for you.

Contact ChildLine anytime - calls are free and confidential 0800 1111

A ChildLine Counsellor is someone who:

• who you can trust
• who is genuine, open and friendly
• who won’t judge you or put you down
• who is not easily shocked
• who will listen to you and knows it takes courage to contact us
• who is aware of the sorts of problems you might be worried about
• who will let you take your time
• who wants you to get in touch

To find out more go to their website: www.childline.org.uk

Citizens’ Rights for Older People can help with:

• As an older person do you need help to make a complaint?
• Can you negotiate satisfactory care services for yourself?
• Do you need help filling in benefit forms?
• Is your landlord keeping to his tenancy agreement

They provide a service in the following areas:

• Maidstone, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks area
• Ashford and Shepway including rural areas
• Thanet, Dover, Canterbury, Swale and the Isle of Sheppey

To find your local service go to the website: www.cropkent.org.uk

Combat Stress is helping more than 5,400 UK Veterans get their lives back. If you are suffering mental ill-health caused by military service, combat stress may be able to help you too. It doesn’t matter how young or old you are, or where you Served - Combat Stress may be able to help. And although they are called Combat Stress, you don’t have to have been in combat to use our services. As long as you are an ex-Service man or women, they are here for you.
And if you are the loved one or carer of an ex-Service man or woman, you can get in touch too.

People react to traumatic experiences in different ways, go to the Live It Well Post Traumatic Stress Information Page for more information.

Telephone: 01372 587000. 24 Hour Helpline 0800 1381619 you can also text 07537 404 719 (standard charges apply for texts) or email them at: [email protected]

For their website follow the link: www.combatstress.org.uk

Kent Police have Community Liaison Officers working in Kent and Medway who are committed to tackling hate crime. The Community Liaison Officers can give you advice, discuss what has happened or put you in touch with other organisations that may be able to offer you support.

What is hate crime?

Hate incident - the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) defines a hate incident as:
‘any incident, which may or may not constitute a criminal offence, which is perceived by the victim or any other person, as being motivated by prejudice or hate.’
Hate crime - ACPO defines a hate crime as:
‘any hate incident, which constitutes a criminal offence, perceived by the victim or any other person, as being motivated by prejudice or hate.’ Prejudice or hate may be based on characteristics including:

• disability
• race
• religion
• sexual orientation
• transgender

Are you, or is someone you know, being bullied, harassed or verbally abused? Is this because of your race, religion, disability, sexuality or gender identity?
If so, this is a hate incident and should be reported.

How can I report it?

• Call 101 to report a crime. Call 999 if life is in immediate danger or the crime is in progress.
• If deaf or speech impaired, text ‘police’ and the details to 60066. How to use our text service.
• Visit your local police station.
• Contact your local officer to discuss non-urgent concerns, Kent Police Community Liaison Officers are based all over Kent and you can find their details at the Kent Police website by following the link: http://www.kent.police.uk/about_us/diversity/pages/comm_liaison.html
• When you call Kent Police, ask for the incident reference number. A police officer will come to speak to you as soon as possible. (Make sure you get the police officer’s name and number.) An investigating officer will always be assigned to you and you will be advised who that person is.

Report it to others…

• If you’re not sure about contacting the police, you might prefer to:
• call 0800 138 1624 - this service is run by trained, non-police staff and is available 24/7.
• visit the True Vision online reporting website.

To find out more about the service or to download a leaflet in a variety of languages go to the Kent Police website by clicking here or following the link: www.kent.police.uk

Cruse provide bereavement counselling for all. Cruse provides support, counselling and advice and gives you someone to turn to when someone dies.

Cruse provides advice, information and support to anyone who has been bereaved (children, young people and adults), whenever or however the death occurred. The service is provided by trained, experienced volunteers, and is confidential and free. Cruse provides Can offer:

• someone to talk to face-to-face, or
• on the telephone
• online support
• groups – some bereaved people find it helpful to talk to others in similar circumstances
• information – about many aspects of bereavement and other sources of help and support
• face-to-face, telephone helpline and online support for children and young people.
• Support for those bereaved by death
• Supports military families
• Provides training in bereavement support

Swale Helpline: 01795 844069
East Kent Helpline: 0845 603 0024

These help lines have a 24-hour answerphone facility. Please leave a message including your name and telephone number and one of our Bereavement support volunteers will get back to you as soon as possible.

National helpline: 0844 477 9400 or Email: [email protected]. To go to the national Cruse website click here or follow the link: www.cruse.org.uk.

Cruse provide bereavement counselling for all. Cruse provides support, counselling and advice and gives you someone to turn to when someone dies.

Cruse provides advice, information and support to anyone who has been bereaved (children, young people and adults), whenever or however the death occurred. The service is provided by trained, experienced volunteers, and is confidential and free. Cruse provides Can offer:

• someone to talk to face-to-face, or
• on the telephone
• online support
• groups – some bereaved people find it helpful to talk to others in similar circumstances
• information – about many aspects of bereavement and other sources of help and support
• face-to-face, telephone helpline and online support for children and young people.
• Support for those bereaved by death
• Supports military families
• Provides training in bereavement support

Cruse Bereavement Care, South Kent Area: Telephone 0844 800 9104 or email: [email protected].

To go to the national Cruse website follow the link: www.cruse.org.uk

Deal Pathfinders is a club for people with mental health and learning disabilities. Social and recreational facility for people with mental health and learning disabilities (age 18+). Activities include table tennis, snooker, cards, board games - plus an opportunity to chat and make friends.

They meet on Tuesdays 6pm-8pm

Contact: Pat Winder. Address: The Godric Centre, St Richards Road, Deal, CT14 9LD, to see the location on a google map click here. Telephone: 07779945830

The Depression Alliance provides help, information and support for those suffering from depression and their families and carers.

The Depression Alliance can help with:

• What is depression - Understand what it can feel like and how to spot the symptoms
• Living with depression - Discover how depression can affect our day-to-day lives
• Recovery and wellbeing - Learn the activities, techniques and resources for getting better and staying well
• Treatment - Explore and choose a treatment that’s right for you
• Useful contacts - Search other organisations and helplines for mental health support
• Family and friends - Find tips on supporting a friend or family member living with depression
• Self help groups - Find a friendly and supportive group in your local area
• Resources - Watch videos and download our Single Step magazine
• Wellbeing Networks - A supportive community of friends who understand depression can be life-saving

To go to their website follow the link: www.depressionalliance.org

Call 0845 123 23 20 for an information pack or email: [email protected]

Domestic Abuse Support Services covers Kent and Medway providing advice and information on services for victims, friends & family, and perpetrators of Domestic Abuse and domestic violence.

Find local help to you if:

• You are in an abusive relationship
• A friend of yours is being abused
• If you are a young person
• If you are an abuser
• Or if you are a professional

The Domestic Abuse Support Service means you can search for services to help you in your local area. In addition they have further advice and help on their website: www.domesticabuseservices.org.uk

The Helpline can give support, help and information over the telephone, wherever the caller might be in the country. The Helpline is staffed 24 hours a day by fully trained female helpline support workers and volunteers. All calls are completely confidential. Translation facilities for callers whose first language is not English, and a service for callers who are deaf or hard of hearing are available.

To find out more about this service and go to the website click the following link: www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk

Domestic abuse is an unacceptable crime which affects people from all social and economic backgrounds, regardless of age, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation. It includes any action involving abuse between adult family members (including current and former partners). The abuse occurs when a person causes, attempts to cause, or threatens to cause emotional, sexual or physical harm to an intimate partner or other family member.

Initial response to serious incidents dial 999

• Kent Police DVU enquiries and non-urgent crime reports dial 101 or visit your local police station to speak with an officer in confidence
• Medway Police DVU enquiries and non-urgent crime reports: 01634 792308 or email [email protected] or visit your local police station to speak with an officer in confidence
• Hearing impaired text ‘Police’ and message to 60066
• freephone 24 hour National Domestic Violence Helpline run in partnership between Women’s Aid and Refuge on 0808 2000 247 or the Mens’ Advice Line on 0808 801 0327
• Kent and Medway Domestic Violence website for information and advice click here.
• National Centre for DV (NCDV) 0844 8044 999 for legal help and civil injunctions
• Mankind (for male victims of DV) 01823 334 244
• Karma Nirvana (for honour based violence and forced marriage) 0800 5999 247
• Forced Marriage Unit 0207 008 0151

www.domesticabuseservices.org.uk

Dover Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) provide services to adults people living in the community who are experiencing mental health problems.

Coleman House, Brookfield Avenue, Dover, CT16 2AH. To see the location of this service on a google map click here.

Telephone: 01304 216666, for their website click here or to find out more about Community Mental Health Teams click here.

• Referrals to the CMHTs are usually made directly through a GP
• The intake element of a CMHT acts as a single point of access for all referrals to mental health services that we provide.
• If you are referred to a team they will assess you, signpost and offer short-term treatment as close as possible to your home

www.kmpt.nhs.uk

Have you seen your GP or Doctor and they have recommended you see a counsellor and get some therapy? Dover Counselling Centre is one of the free NHS funded talking therapy and counselling services available in Kent and Medway. These services are open to everyone aged from 17+.

Are you feeling stressed or depressed or anxious?

Or struggling with a phobia, eating disorder or addiction?

Or if you are looking for someone to help you through a difficult time in life, maybe a friend or relative has died or you’re struggling with fertility of if you have lost your job?

Talking therapies can help all sorts of people in many different situations. Talking therapy is for anyone who’s going through a bad time or who has emotional problems they can’t sort out on their own.

You can refer yourself into this free service and see a NHS funded therapist.

Dover Counselling Centre: 01304 204123 or email [email protected].

To go to their website follow the link: www.dovercc.org.uk

Dover Counselling Centre provide counselling and support for common mental health problems; anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem, stress, trauma, phobias and anger, as well as problems with regards to relationships, work or debt.

There are several talking therapy providers in your area so if one has a waiting list why not try another therapy provider go to our list of local NHS Talking Therapy providers which you can find on our NHS Counselling and Therapy page.

This service was provided as part of the IAPT programme, to find out more about IAPT go to: www.iapt.nhs.uk.

East Kent Carers Council (EKCC): A carer involvement group which enables carers to debate and campaign on mental health issues. EKCC provides members with the opportunity to represent carers’ views at meetings of health and social care organisations such as the Kent and Medway Partnership Trust, CCG’s and Kent County Council.

• Email: [email protected]
• Telephone: 01227 761427

East Kent Rape Crisis Centre can offer services to men, women and young people across Kent. East Kent Rape Crisis Centre offer face to face counselling for survivors of rape or childhood sexual abuse.

All their services are free and confidential.

• Confidential Telephone Helpline & Support Line
• Free Face-to-Face Counselling
• Advice and Support
• Independent Sexual Violence Advisor
• Workshops/Training

They have a team of trained people who are able to take your calls on the helpline and support line, between 6.30 to 9.30 in the evenings, from Monday to Friday.

Telephone: 0800 458 2818 or email: [email protected] or go to their website here: www.ekrcc.org.uk.

Elefriends is a supportive online community where you can be yourself. We all know what it’s like to struggle sometimes, and this is a safe place to listen, share and be heard. Whether you’re feeling good right now, or really low, it’s a safe place to share experiences and listen to others.

Shared experiences and perspectives are valuable and powerful. In this way Elefriends don’t just get help, they give help too. In the good times and the bad.

• Post on the wall to say hello. New friends are always welcomed into the herd

• If you don’t feel up to writing something just now then that’s ok too – just take a look at what other people are saying and show your support by clicking one of the buttons to say, ‘I like this’, ‘I’m thinking of you’ or ‘I hear you’

• Perhaps there’s something you’re struggling with at the moment? With lots of supportive ele friends, you’re likely to get a fresh perspective on your situation

• Don’t forget to share good news – the Elephant wants to hear what you’re proud of too, even if it feels like a small thing. And pictures and videos always brighten up his day too

To go to the Elefriends website follow the link: www.elefriends.org.uk

Family Mosaic Home Improvement agencies help to promote independence at home by offering a wide range of services that include:

HomeSafe:

• Information and advice to help you maintain independent living in your own home.
• Professional service to help you adapt your home to meet your needs.
• Fully insured surveyors and register of trusted contractors

Homefixed

• Affordable Handyperson service covering a raft of minor repairs and DIY type work
• Competitive quotation service for larger works, decorating and galvanized handrails
• Supply and fit keysafe service

Care Navigator Service

• Free confidential help, advice and support for older people
• We can help you find out about services available in your community
• Improve your confidence in decision making and dealing with everyday problems
• Take charge and manage your situation
• Improve your sense of wellbeing
• Assess, and arrange the supply of equipment and minor aids to your home.

To find your local service go to their website by following the link: www.familymosaic.co.uk

Folkestone & District Mind provides support, information and advice to anyone resident in Shepway area, who has experienced or is experiencing mental distress. Mind in Folkestone run a range of activities to support people who have mental health needs and their families and carers.

Activities include:

• Peer support sessions and therapeutic groups - 10am - 1.30pm
• Person centred planning and counselling
• Relaxation, music jamming and individual lessons - 1.30pm -3pm
• Opportunities to enjoy horse-riding, walks, outings, gym etc.
• Social activities with peer support group, visiting places of interest
• Wednesday Evening ‘drop-in’ sessions - 7pm -9pm
• Community Support Group in Hythe on Monday afternoons
• Mental health resource library

Folkestone & District Mind also have a Wellbeing Programme which includes therapeutic groups i.e. arts/crafts and music in addition to person centred planning, photography, gardening, clay workshops and yoga.

Telephone: 01303 250090 or email [email protected] or visit www.folkestonemind.org.uk

Postal address: 3 Mill Bay/24-26 Dover Rd, Folkestone, CT20 1JQ

Folkestone & District Mind is funded by Porchlight and Big Lottery Fund.

Get Connected are there for advice if you’re under 25, they are there for you, 365 days a year, for absolutely anything you’re going through. Get Connected are free, confidential, and you can contact them however you’d prefer - by phone, email, text or webchat.

They can help you with anything you are going through, and this includes:

• Abuse and violence
• Bullying, harassment and discrimination
• Citizenship and cultural issues
• Crime, the law and your rights
• Drink, drugs and addictions
• Families and care
• Feelings and mental health
• Gender and sexual identity
• Harming yourself
• Housing and homelessness
• Physical health
• Sex, relationships and pregnancy
• Work, education and money

To go to the Get Connected website click here, or follow the link: www.getconnected.org.uk

By phone - Call them free on 0808 808 4994 open from 1pm - 11pm every day

By text - Text them free on 80849 Texts will usually be answered within 24 hours

By Email - click here to go to the Get Connected contact page. Emails will usually be answered within 24 hours.

Harbour Lights provide low cost counselling the Ashford and Deal area. The offer counselling for:

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Panic
• Trauma
• Feeling Down
• Low Confidence
• Relationship Struggles
• Abuse
• Bereavement & Loss
• Cognitive & Integrative Approach

Address: Sycamores, Dover road, Walmer, Deal, Kent CT14 7NP or telephone 07517 224321 or 01304 363388

Many parents need help, friendship, advice or support during those early years when their children are young. If you have at least one child under five then Home Start can help. Being a parent, wherever you live or whatever the situation, is not easy. Many parents feel exhausted and overwhelmed by the stresses of family life. It is even more difficult if family or friends are unable to offer you support and breathing space when you most need it. Some parents lose confidence in their ability to cope and most can remember days when they would have liked someone to turn to.

A Home-Start volunteer will visit you regularly (usually once a week for a couple of hours) in your home and offer support through difficult times for as long as it is helpful or needed. You decide with your volunteer when visits will happen and how you spend the time. Home-Start volunteers are parents too and may have been supported by Home-Start themselves in the past. You can choose whether or not to accept Home-Start support. A volunteer will only visit at the invitation of the family.

They:

• Provide support for parents
• Support and Friendship for families

Address: The Ark, Noah’s Ark Road, Dover. Kent. CT17 0DD. Click here to see this location on a google map.

Telephone: 01304242314, or email [email protected]. To go to their website follow the link: www.home-startdoverdistrict.org.uk

Home Start Shepway: Many parents need help, friendship, advice or support during those early years when their children are young. If you have at least one child under five then Home Start can help. Being a parent can be a tough job, and a lack of support from family or friends can lead to isolation.

The Home-Start volunteers are all parents themselves, and offer friendship, support and strategies to help families establish good bedtime routines, manage challenging behaviour, and even finances. They also help families with more complex needs including mental health, child protection or domestic violence issues. They work with the family over a number of weeks providing confidential friendly support to help families grow in confidence, strengthen their relationships with their children and widen their links with the local community.

• Offers support and help for families
• Issues include isolation, post-natal depression, family illness, bereavement
• Groups and events
• Runs Freedom Programme for Domestic Violence

Contact: Sam Taylor (manager), address: 24 Cheriton Gardens, Folkestone, CT20 2AS. To see the location of this service on a google map click here. Telephone: 01303 244836 or email [email protected].

To go to their website follow the link: www.homestartshepway.org.uk

Have you seen your GP or Doctor and they have recommended you see a counsellor and get some therapy? Insight Healthcare is one of the free NHS funded talking therapy and counselling services available in Kent and Medway. These services are open to everyone aged from 17+.

Are you feeling stressed or depressed or anxious?

Or struggling with a phobia, eating disorder or addiction?

Or if you are looking for someone to help you through a difficult time in life, maybe a friend or relative has died or you’re struggling with fertility of if you have lost your job?

Talking therapies can help all sorts of people in many different situations. Talking therapy is for anyone who’s going through a bad time or who has emotional problems they can’t sort out on their own.

You can refer yourself into this free service and see a NHS funded therapist.

Contact: Insight Healthcare: Telephone: 0300 555 5555 or email [email protected]. To go to their website click here.

Insight Healthcare provide counselling and support for common mental health problems; anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem, stress, trauma, phobias and anger, as well as problems with regards to relationships, work or debt.

www.insighthealthcare.org

There are several talking therapy providers in your area so if one has a waiting list why not try another therapy provider go to our list of local NHS Talking Therapy providers which you can find on our NHS Counselling and Therapy page.

This service was provided as part of the IAPT programme, to find out more about IAPT go to: www.iapt.nhs.uk.

Kent Autistic Trust ensure that everyone with autism gets the right balance of support that they need to be as successful as possible in all areas of their life. Kent Autistic Trust provide opportunities that encourage people to grow, take risks and learn the skills they need. Kent Autistic Trust provide services for adults and young people:

• Adult: information, support and advice, support groups, multi-agency support, financial benefits, grants, entitlements applications
• Younger People: Carers support, multi-agency support for health, education etc. benefits, grants, entitlements applications

Head Office: 14 High Street Brompton, Gillingham, Kent ME7 5AE Telephone: 01634 405168 or email at: [email protected].

To their website by follow the link: www.kentautistic.com

SureStart Children’s Centres are places that provide information and services for families with young children aged from birth to five years in the local community and are great places to meet new people. SureStart Centres are designed to give children the best start in life and to support their parents and carers.

Each centre offers different services, including

• childcare
• early education
• training or finding a new job
• antenatal classes
• baby clinics
• support with breastfeeding
• support with parenting and speech and language
• drop-in sessions for parents and children
• Services for children with special needs and disabilities
• opportunities for families to get involved with volunteering and designing services

Please check with your local children’s centre to find out what they offer: www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/childcare-and-pre-school/childrens-centres

The Landmark centre provides a variety of support for people with disabilities and young families.

They provide help to:

• Supports everyone within the local area, particularly those with disabilities and those with young families.
• Offer art, music, drama, IT, English and maths
• Provide work placement for volunteers

The Landmark centre, Deal and Walmer Community Association,Landmark Centre,129 High St, Deal.CT14 6BB, click here to see the location of this service on a google map.

The Live It Well Website has a range of information and advice all designed to support your mental health and wellbeing. Find out about the Six Ways to Wellbeing and what people in Kent are doing to support their wellbeing.

We have information on money and benefits, debt help and advice, mental health services and how to get help in Kent and Medway.

We have a unique database of local support and help that is available in your community.

We have listings for all of the NHS Talking therapy providers in Kent, so if you are struggling find out how you can refer yourself into services here.

• Gives advice and links to other services
• Local focus website, with links to social activities, physical health and things to do in Kent and Medway
• Hosts the Live It Library - mental health recovery stories
• Offers support pages, live online support and local information
• Information on how the community mental health teams work and the mental health system in Kent and Medway
• Supports the Six Ways to Wellbeing and has local suggestions to support these - Connect, Be Active, Keep Learning, Take Notice, Give, and Planet - Care
• Employment , money and debt advice
• Information about personal budgets and self direct support
• Information on carers groups and service user networks
• Information on PTSD
• Information on Housing help and support

We are always looking to improve our website so if you have any ideas about how we can help let us know. To go to the home page go to www.liveitwell.org.uk or to contact Live It Well email: [email protected]

The Live Well Kent service is there to help people improve their mental and physical health and wellbeing. It is a free service for anyone over 17. Some of the things Live Well Kent can help with are:

Mental health and wellbeing

• Understanding and managing thoughts and emotions
• Achieving personal goals
• Accessing therapies and support groups.

Keeping active and healthy

• Healthy living support eg stopping smoking or cutting down on alcohol
• Dance clubs
• Walking groups and sporting activities.

Meeting people

• Volunteering
• Social enterprises and community projects
• Arts, music and culture groups.

Training and work

• Gaining new skills
• Finding the right job.

Everyday living

• Managing money, including debt and benefits
• Housing support and guidance

Live Well Kent’s aim is to connect people with their communities, ensuring they have access to the widest possible range of support and services to meet their particular needs.

So if you are looking for help and support for yourself or someone you know call on 0800 567 7699 or email [email protected] and they talk you through how we can help you and give the support and advice you need. To go to their website go to: www.livewellkent.org.uk

Live Well Kent is delivered on behalf of Kent County Council and the NHS by two charities, Porchlight and Shaw Trust.

mcch offer an eight-week programme of two hours per week that aims to inform and motivate people with regards to the evidenced-based, recovery-focused aspects of wellbeing that promote resilience. The service runs in Ashford and Dover and Deal.

The eight sessions centre around:

• Where to get help
• Reducing anxiety
• Give
• Connect
• Healthy body, healthy mind
• Take notice
• Keep learning
• Managing stress and developing resilience

mcch use some aspects of Motivational Interviewing and each session includes an opportunity for individuals to set their own goals. In addition to these sessions, there are opportunities to research and take practical steps to meeting their personal goals with support from staff, either in small groups, or on a one-to-one basis. mcch will continue to work with people for a further four weeks after completing the eight sessions, ensuring that people are appropriately signposted to other services and that they know where they can get help and support in the future.

To contact the Ashford service call: 0800 567 7699 or email [email protected]

For the Dover and Deal service: call (and leave a message) on 01304 242558 or email [email protected] or call the Live Well Kent line on 0800 567 7699 or email [email protected]

The Mental Health Forum website offers a friendly open place for discussion, help and support with mental health issues. They have service user forums which provide the opportunity to meet and socialise with people who have experienced mental health issues as well as a way of getting involved in what is happening in Mental Health Services.

To find out more click here or go to the website here: www.mentalhealthforum.net

Mental Health Matters provide support for all mental health matters including bereavement, relationships, loneliness and stress 24 hours per day 7 days per week.

Mental Health Matters Telephone Helpline consists of a team of highly trained and experienced support workers who use counselling skills to provide you with emotional guidance and information.

You might choose to call us if:

• You may be feeling low, anxious or stressed and feel talking to another person might help you cope
• You may be in extreme emotional distress and feel that there is nowhere else to turn including thoughts of suicide
• You may be caring for another person and finding it difficult to cope.

Contacting the Helpline can give you a feeling of relief, wellbeing and peace of mind. You won’t be judged and our service is confidential unless we consider that there is a risk to yourself or others.

Helpline (Kent & Medway): 0800 1070160 24 hour support, 7 days a week, all year around.

Migrant Help UK is dedicated to offering advice and support to vulnerable migrants. They provide individuals with the resources and support they need to find safety, access appropriate services and information and develop greater independence.

Migrant Help UK operates a range of support services, including the Asylum Help, a free telephone advice line - 0808 8000 630, and Clear Voice, an interpreting and translation service covering more than 80 languages - 0800 520 0380.

To find out more go to their website www.migranthelpuk.org

The MindEd online resource provides information and advice concerning children’s mental health and wellbeing. The MindEd online resource is for concerned children and their families to seek help and advice. MindEd directs visitors to sections including ‘risky behaviour’, ‘eating disorders’, ‘sexual orientation and gender’ and ‘being a parent in the digital age’ for expert advice.

Topics on the website include:

• Should I Be Worried?
• What To Do In A Crisis
• Death And Loss (Including Pets)
• Trauma And Coping
• Talking To My Child
• Who Can Help Us?
• Building Confidence And Resilience
• Parenting In A Digital World
• Refusal To Go To School
• Bullying And What To Do As A Parent
• Sexual Orientation And Gender
• Eating Disorders

The website has been developed by the The Department for Education and Department of Health

To go to the MindEd webpage follow the link: minded.e-lfh.org.uk/families/index.html

NAPAC is the National Association for People Abused in Childhood. NAPAC is there to help adults come to terms with what abuse suffered in childhood. NAPAC was set up, as the only national organisation solely focussed on helping all adult survivors of any kind of childhood abuse – whether physical, sexual, emotional, ritual or organised or the result of neglect.

Millions of adults in the UK today carry with them the painful memories of abuse they suffered when they were children. Many adults with a history of childhood abuse can continue to suffer – from post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, depression. They have a higher chance than others of becoming involved in crime, prostitution, drugs or alcohol abuse. They can suffer from low self-esteem and be prone to self-harm or suicide.

NAPAC:

• Provide a range of services and information which offer direct support to survivors
• Ensure that survivors know where they can go for help
• Spread best practice in the support of survivors among those who they may approach for help
• Stand up for survivors and representing their interests among those who are in a position to help improve their lives

Call their freephone number from a landline or mobile: 0808 801 0331 the phoneline is manned from 10 am - 9pm Monday - Thursday and 10 am - 6pm Friday

or email: [email protected]

To go to the NAPAC website follow the link: napac.org.uk

New Romney Counselling Service aims to help you feel in charge of your own life and to support you in working towards a more satisfying way of living.

They can help with:

• Stress or Anxiety
• Domestic Violence
• Bereavement
• Loneliness
• Lack of Self Confidence
• Sexual Abuse (including Rape)
• A Broken Relationship
• Loss of Work
• Couples Counselling

New Romney Counselling Service is for adults and children, primary MH care, for a wide range of issues. New Romney Counselling Service is a charitable organisation asks £10 donation from those in paid work.

Address: The Centre, North Street, New Romney, TN28 8DW. To see the location of this service on a map click here.

Telephone: 01797 367809. For their website follow the link: newromneycounselling.co.uk

Take Off are offering one to one peer support. These conversations focus on supporting you to engage more in your community, learn new skills, build capacity and increase independence.

If you need help with starting or maintaining your recovery journey, or want to know what could
genuinely help your wellbeing, talking to a peer could help.

All Take Off peer workers have lived experience of a wide variety of illnesses and have fought to
live meaningful lives, so can offer guidance to suit you.

Please see the poster for more information.

Or contact Take Off via email: [email protected] or the contact form on their website: www.takeoff.works

Porchlight support vulnerable and homeless people in Kent. They have supported accommodation services in Ashford, Canterbury, Dover, Ramsgate, Sittingbourne and Tonbridge, a homelessness prevention service and a dedicated rough sleeper team. They provide a range of services supporting people with complex needs, with specialist services for young people, ex-offenders and people with enduring mental health issues. Our focus is on long-term solutions, breaking the cycle of homelessness and ensuring that people can live independently in the future.

The services Porchlight offer include:

• 24-hour helpline - If you are homeless, in housing difficulty or know someone who is, call their 24-hour helpline 0800 567 76 99
• Landlords - Are you looking for a tenant? Porchlight can help take the risk out of letting, making your job easier.
• Porchlight Adolescent Support Service (PASS) - Intensive support to young people aged 10-18.
• Supported Accommodation - Find out abou Porchlights’ adult supported accommodation projects in Kent.
• Rough Sleeper Service - This service works across Kent helping people sleeping on the streets to access emergency accommodation and incorporates Porchlights’ Private Landlord Liaison Service.
• Homelessness Prevention - Porchlight work to prevent homelessness through their floating support service. This service works with people in their own homes who are vulnerable to homelessness. Porchlight also have a Youth Homelessness Education Programme which works to prevent the next generation from becoming homeless or in housing need.
• Young Person’s Services - Porchlight have supported accommodation for 16-24 yr olds who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
• Community Support - Porchlight offer practical and accessible support to people in their own communities. Porchlight have specialist services supporting individuals with mental health issues as well as those who have become isolated, overwhelmed or unable to cope with day-to-day living.

Head Office, 2nd Floor Watling Chambers, 18-19 Watling Street, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2AU Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01227 760078.

Free Helpline: 0800 5677699 or follow the link to go to their website: www.porchlight.org.uk

The Primary Care Community Link Service works alongside your GP practice. It is there to help you find a way through to problems you are facing by building your confidence, helping you to feel more included in your community and help you to address any issues that may be affecting your housing or ability to live as independently as you would like.

Telephone: 0800 567 76 99 (or 0300 365 76 99 from a mobile) or email: [email protected]

To go to their website follow the link: www.porchlight.org.uk

Support and advice is provided in a range areas including:

• Money
• Housing
• Education, training and volunteering
• Community involvement
• Health
• Drugs & Alcohol
• Confidence

Support is completely free and can last for up to 8 weeks. The service is open to adults (18+) living in Kent who feel that their circumstances have affected their mental health and well-being. Speak to your GP and ask them to complete a referral form for you. If you prefer, you can refer yourself by phone or email and they will let your GP know that you have been in touch.

www.porchlight.org.uk

Kent Probation is a statutory criminal justice agency with more than 100 years of experience of working with offenders on community orders and licences. The Probation Service aims to protect the public and reduce re-offending by delivering the orders of the courts and by helping offenders to reform their lives.

• Specific monitoring of offenders within the community
• Work with individuals to address the underlying causes of their offending
• Working with offenders on community services to reduce reoffending

Telephone: 03000 473000

To find out more go to the Kent & Medway Probation website click here: ksscrc.co.uk

The Rainbow Centre Folkestone provide a range of help and support to people in crisis or needing extra help as well as investing in children’s early years’ development.

• Crisis drop in Monday to Friday 10am to 1pm – providing support to those who are homeless, vulnerably housed and individuals who have had benefits sanctioned
• Washing facilities at the Centre, i.e. Shower, spin dryer and washing machine for homeless to use
• Working in collaboration with other local agencies at the Rainbow Centre to offer support and help with accommodation, floating support referrals
• Foodstop service - Mobile soup kitchen 3 times a week for the homeless
• Winter shelter provides beds for homeless in local churches from December through to February
• Support for parents including two Pre-schools for 2 – 5 year olds in Folkestone
• Contact centre – supported contact for parents fortnightly

Contact: Richard Bellamy (manager), address: Cornerstone, 69 Sandgate Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 2AF. To see the location of this service on a map click here.

Telephone: 01303 850733 or email: [email protected]

For their website follow the link: www.folkestonerainbowcentre.org.uk

29 High St, Hythe, CT21 5AD. To see the location of this service on a map click here. Telephone 07772 998593

Click here to go to their website.

• helping couples, families and individuals to make relationships work better
• delivering inclusive, high-quality services that are relevant at every stage of life
• Sex therapy,
• Relationship education

Ross Care Ltd operate in the Shepway, Dover/Deal, Canterbury and Ashford areas. Support can be a one-off, as needed or on a regular basis.

• Assistance with day to day living.
• Provide companionship and support for new situations
• Offer breaks for carers
• Emotional support
• Use of wheelchair accessible vehicle for trips out.

Contact Ross Butcher: Ross Care Ltd, 28 Greenbanks, Lyminge, Folkestone. Kent. CT18 8HG. to see this location on a google map click here.

07967342226/07725112731 or email [email protected]

Royal British Legion Industries provides a work programme designed to:

• CV Building
• Interview Preparation
• Job Searching and Application
• Confidence building

They also provide welfare, healthcare and housing services for veterans and ex armed services personnel and their families
Extensive support including residential nursing, supported accommodation and rehabilitation

Address: RBLI, Hall Rd, Aylesford, Nr. Maidstone, ME20 7NL

Telephone Nos: 01622 795954/795900 or email at: [email protected].

For the website follow the link: www.rbli.co.uk

Counselling for Victims of Serious Crime in Kent. This is a service for anyone that has been affected by serious crime. Rubicon Cares provide trauma counselling throughout Kent & Medway for people affected by ANY crime. This is a free, confidential service to help people deal with the affects of, and move on from, what has happened.

The crime incident can be historical, current, reported or unreported to the police……it is the impact on you which is important to us.

We also have a specialist helpline service which is available 4 times a week to support on a short term basis those who cannot get to us or would like further information about the counselling.

Address: Maidstone Community Support Centre, 39-48 Marsham Street, Maidstone, ME14 1HH, to see their location on a google map click here.

Tel: 01622 230736 or mailto: [email protected] or to go to their website click on the link: www.rubiconcares.org

• One to one specialist counselling to help people overcome traumatic events.
• Specialist telephone helpline for victims and professionals providing information and support on trauma and counselling.

They have counsellors covering the whole of Kent, their main office is based in Maidstone.

They also have a specialist helpline service which is available 3 times a week to support on a short term basis those who cannot get to us. The hours for the helpline are:

• Wednesdays 7 - 9 pm
• Thursdays 12 - 2 pm
• Saturdays 12 - 2 pm

The helpline phone number is 07505 709876.

The Salvation Army work with people who are vulnerable and marginalised they offer practical help, unconditional assistance and support.

Deal: Contacts: Kook Hwan Rho and Hean Suk Choi, The Salvation Army Deal Corps, West Street, Deal, Kent CT14 6AZ
Tel: 01304 375 398 or to go to their website http://www.dealsalvationarmy.org

Dover: The Salvation Army, Dover Outreach Centre, 30 Harbour View Road
Dover, CT17 0NZ. To see the location of this service on a map click here.
Telephone: 01304 240343 or email: [email protected]

Folkestone: Contacts: Linda Richards (Community Care Manager), Captains Matthew and Lynne Clifton address: 75-77, Canterbury Road, Folkestone. To see the location of this service on a map click here.

Telephone: 01303 250090 or email: [email protected]

• Breakfast club
• Winter night shelter, Dec-Feb
• Support with rehousing
• A shop selling donated furniture
• Work with prisoners and their families
• Mother and toddler playgroups, Mon-Fri
• Health groups – men’s health, blood pressure, healthy eating, money management
• Food parcels, blankets, sleeping bags to those in need
• Lunch club on Thursdays
• Women’s groups for the over-60s

housing, homeless, breakfast club, winter shelter, prisoners, food, women’s group, mens health, family, pre school, debt help, prisoners, carers,

The Samaritans provide 24 hour help 365 days a year.

Telephone 116 123 or email: [email protected]

(this phone number works even if you do not have credit on your phone)

You can’t really generalise how struggling to cope can make you feel or act, but if you think these symptoms sound like you or someone you know, please get in touch with the Samaritans

• Lacking energy or feeling tired
• Feeling restless and agitated
• Feeling tearful
• Not wanting to talk to or be with people
• Not wanting to do things you usually enjoy
• Using alcohol or drugs to cope with feelings
• Finding it hard to cope with everyday thing

Talk to the Samaritans any time you like, in your own way, and off the record – about whatever’s getting to you. You don’t have to be suicidal.

The Samaritans provide face to face and phone contact for mental distress, suicide, self-harm, isolation.

To find your local branch follow the link www.samaritans.org/branches

For their websitego to: www.samaritans.org.uk

SANE provides emotional support and information to anyone affected by mental illness, including families, friends and carers. Their mental health support services are completely confidential. Whatever your problems or concerns, you will receive non-judgemental emotional support. Their professional staff and trained volunteers have specialist mental health knowledge; they can help you consider options for support that address your individual circumstances.

Telephone on 0845 7678000

• Helpline offers emotional support and information for individuals affected by mental health problems
• Helpline open daily 18.00-23.00

For their website follow the link: www.sane.org.uk

Shelter helps millions of people every year struggling with bad housing or homelessness. They provide free information and advocacy to people in housing need.

24 Housing support, help and advice 0808 8004444

• Visit the Get Advice section for help online
• Phone or visit a Shelter advice centre near you
• To go to their website click here
• Provides advice and support on all aspects of housing
• Legal advice on eviction, emergencies, homelessness
• Will offer support and advice for housing in cases of family break-up, domestic violence and homeless young people

http://england.shelter.org.uk

Shepway Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) provide services to adults people living in the community who are experiencing mental health problems.

Address: Royal Ash Eaton, Radnor Park Avenue, Folkestone, Kent CT19 5HL. To see the location of this service on a map click here.

Telephone: 01303 227510 Fax: 01303 225712

For their website click here, to find out more about Community Mental Health Teams click here.

• Referrals to the CMHTs are usually made directly through a GP
• The intake element of a CMHT acts as a single point of access for all referrals to mental health services that we provide.
• If you are referred to a team they will assess you, signpost and offer short-term treatment as close as possible to your home.

www.kmpt.nhs.uk

Shepway Volunteer Centre helps people find a volunteering role which matches their skills, experience and circumstances.

United Reformed Church, Castle Hill Avenue, Folkestone, CT20 2QL. To see the location of this service on a google map click here.

Telephone: 01303 259007 or email: [email protected]. To go to their web page follow the link: www.volunteershepway.co.uk

Social care services help people who are in need of support due to illness, disability, old age or poverty. Social care services are available to everyone, regardless of background. However, social care is subject to rules about your needs and ability. Services can also support the families or carers of people who receive social care.

Services include:

• Support in your own home - helping you live independently in your own home.
• Your options if living in your own home is no longer possible.
• Paying for care & how much your care costs and how to pay for it.
• Caring for other people - help and support for those who regularly care for another person in Kent.
• Disability - services for people in Kent with a disability.
• How to get social care help
• Children in care and looked after children in Kent.
• Adoption and fostering

To find out more or follow the link: www.kent.gov.uk

The South Kent Community Church provide services to support the homeless and those who have mental ill health. They also run free debt management help.

• Various bases in the area
• Drop in for homelessness/poor housing, mental health and addiction problems (mostly male)
• Bereavement Group
• Debt management through Christians Against Poverty (CAP) group

Contact: Angela Burnett, address: SKCC Office 1-3 Bouverie Rd West, Folkestone Kent CT20 2RX. To see the location of this service on a map click here.

Telephone: 01303 251155 or email at: [email protected]

For the website follow the link: www.skcc.info

Speakup CIC gives a voice to Mental Health Service Users, they help them become involved in shaping services offered and aid their recovery. Forums providing people with mental health needs support, information and a means to have a say in the shaping and running of local mental health services. They also run lots of local support groups.

Covering Ashford, Deal, Dover, and Thanet.

The Media Centre, 11-13 Kings Street, Margate, CT9 1DD. To see the location of this service on a google map click here.

Telephone: 01843 448384 or email: [email protected] To go to their website follow the link: www.speakupcic.co.uk.

SSAFA provide whatever support is needed for the Forces family. SSAFA provide lifelong support to anyone who is currently serving or has ever served in the Royal Navy, British Army or Royal Air Force. They are here for you and your family, whenever and wherever you need us. They will always treat you with dignity and respect.

Call our central team on 0207 403 8783

If you are currently serving in the armed forces they can help with:

• Housing and housing advice
• Family Support Groups
• Adoption for serving families
• Additional Needs and Disability support
• Mentoring for Service personnel
• Professional health and social care
• Personal Support & Social Work for the RAF
• Forcesline confidential helpline
• Support for serving families abroad

If you are an ex armed services veteran SSAFA have trained volunteers can provide practical and emotional help if and when you need it. They also have a network of local branches, which means that help and advice is always close at hand.
Call our team on 0845 241 7141 or send them an enquiry.

They also offer the following specialist services for veterans and their families:

• Housing and housing advice
• Forcesline confidential helpline
• Support for offenders, ex-offenders and partners

For more information go to their main website: www.ssafa.org.uk

For Kent specific help call: 01622 792363 or email: [email protected]

They should be able to answer your calls and emails between: Monday to Friday - 9.00 - 17.00 At other times please leave a message or send an email and someone will get back to you soon

St Vincent de Paul Society is a charity providing support for anyone in need. St Vincent de Paul Society offer local based and able to offer financial assistance, visiting, support.

The St Vincent de Paul Society work to address poverty and social justice and offer a visiting and befriending service

Contact: Sarah Adams & Moira Goss, address: Our Lady Help of Christians, 41 Guildhall Street, Folkestone. To see the location of this service on a map click here.

Telephone: 01303 254046/243471

For their website follow the link: www.svp.org.uk

Support Line is a preventative service and aims to support people before they reach the point of crisis. Support Line is aimed at those who are socially isolated, vulnerable, at risk groups and victims of any form of abuse. Support Line will enable the caller to talk over their feelings with a helpline worker who offers non-judgmental, caring, empathic support. The helpline worker will encourage greater understanding and awareness of the caller’s issues and help the caller develop more positive coping strategies.

Telephone: 01708 765 200 (hours vary so ring for details)

www.supportline.org.uk

Take off aims to give a voice to users of mental health services; to make community care work; helping to shape mental health services into as comprehensive and socially useful a service as possible; and to educate the public in, and promote awareness of mental health problems.

Services they provide include:

• Crisis Cafe
• Council of East Kent Service User Forums (CEKSUF)
• Patients Council
• Peer Support Groups
• Peer Support Brokerage
• Mental Health User Forum

34 Military Road, Canterbury CT1 1LT, To see the location of this service on a google map click here.

Telephone: 01227 788211, email: [email protected]
To go to their website click here or follow the link to: https://takeoff.works/

Take Off Folkestone runs across the Shepway area to support people who have mental health issues meet others and have a voice in mental health services. Take Off Folkestone meets once weekly in different venues in the town for a coffee and a chat. Take Off Folkestone’s main purpose is to offer a ready-made social network with no-pressure peer support thrown in.

For those who cannot attend the group they offer phone and email contact and support and will visit people on a one-to-one basis if required.
The meetings take place either in local cafes or coffee shops; two meetings monthly take place in the local mental health services and Mind Centre; at the latter we have a board games afternoon. Take Off Folkestone also attend other meetings, both mental health related and in the community and can offer some support for others to attend too.

Take Off Folkestone aim to give service users a voice in shaping future services and giving people the information they need to advocate for themselves.

Take Off Folkestone do not have a fixed monthly pattern, they don’t generally publicise our meeting dates and times, but all are available from Madlin Brinton, co-ordinator at Folkestone on 01303 245840 or by using the contact form at the web page here: takeoff.works/us/take-off-folkestone.

Address of the main office: Take Off, 34 Military Road, Canterbury, CT1 1LTl Tel: 01227 788211

Tenterden Counselling Service can help if you are suffering from depression or low moods, from stress, from anxiety or are finding life hard to cope with

• Experiencing bereavement of any kind, maybe through death, or redundancy, or divorce or retirement
• Lacking confidence or suffering from low self-esteem or loneliness
• Experiencing difficult relationship problems, maybe with issues around divorce, adoption, family members or the workplace
• Troubled by events or memories from the past, maybe having suffered abuse or other trauma which you are finding it difficult to talk about

Milroy House, Sayers Lane, High Street, Tenterden TN30 6BW. To see the location of this service on a google map click here.

Telephone: 0776 968 3347 or to go to their web page click here, or go to the following link: www.tenterdencounselling.org.uk/

The National Autistic Society provide a wide range of services for those affected by autism and their families. Click here to go to their website, and look for your local branch.

Their services include:

• Advice and Information
• Education and schools
• Residential Help
• Support for Carers
• Employment and Support

www.autism.org.uk

The Silver Line is the only free confidential helpline providing information, friendship and advice to older people, open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

The Silver Line staff can help with:

• Offer information, friendship and advice
• Link callers to local groups and services
• Offer regular befriending calls
• Protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

Who is it for?
The Silver Line is a helpline for older people – the Silver Generation. We have no strict age limits but most people we speak to are over 65. So, if you think it’s for you, it’s for you.

Telephone: 0800 4 70 80 90

To go to their website to find out more click here or follow the link below

www.thesilverline.org.uk

TheSite.org is an online guide to life for 16-25 year olds in the UK. It provides non-judgmental support and information on everything from sex and stress to debt and drugs.

Straight-talking emotional support is available 24 hours a day. There are options for:

• Chatting about anything on moderated discussion boards and live chat rooms
• Browsing over 2000 articles and videos full of trustworthy facts
• Reading about the experiences of other young people in the True Life section
• Asking questions about friends, dating, love or family life to trained advisors – free and confidential

They have information and advice on:

• Sex & Relationships
• Your Body
• Mental Health
• Drink & Drugs
• Housing
• Money
• Work & Study
• Crime & Safety
• Travel & Lifestyle

www.thesite.org

Have you seen your GP or Doctor and they have recommended you see a counsellor and get some therapy? Thinkaction Thanet & South Kent Coast is one of the free NHS funded talking therapy and counselling services available in Kent and Medway. These services are open to everyone aged from 17+.

Are you feeling stressed or depressed or anxious?

Or struggling with a phobia, eating disorder or addiction?

Or if you are looking for someone to help you through a difficult time in life, maybe a friend or relative has died or you’re struggling with fertility of if you have lost your job?

Talking therapies can help all sorts of people in many different situations. Talking therapy is for anyone who’s going through a bad time or who has emotional problems they can’t sort out on their own.

You can refer yourself into this free service and see a NHS funded therapist.

Thinkaction Thanet & South Kent Coast - 01843 293844 or email [email protected], opening hours Monday - Thursday 9am – 8pm, Friday 9am – 5pm. They accept GP or self referrals click here to go to their website. They don’t have a waiting list so we are usually able to offer an appointment within 1-3 weeks. Address: 1 Cecil Street Margate Kent CT9 1NX.

Tel: 01843 293844

Email: [email protected]

To go to their website follow the link: www.addaction.org.uk

Thinkaction Thanet & South Kent Coast provide counselling and support for common mental health problems; anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem, stress, trauma, phobias and anger, as well as problems with regards to relationships, work or debt.

There are several talking therapy providers in your area so if one has a waiting list why not try another therapy provider go to our list of local NHS Talking Therapy providers which you can find on our NHS Counselling and Therapy page.

This service was provided as part of the IAPT programme, to find out more about IAPT go to: www.iapt.nhs.uk

Turning Point provide the Out There Everywhere substance / drug abuse services in East Kent. You can call them on 01322 278916, or you can access their website by clicking here. Out There Everywhere operates from locations across the county and via a number of ‘Roving Recovery’ vehicles, working to ensure that support is provided for those who need it most, wherever they may be.

• Community drug and alcohol recovery service
• Addresses and prevents problematic drug and alcohol use

www.turning-point.co.uk

Have you seen your GP or Doctor and they have recommended you see a counsellor and get some therapy? University Medical Centre is one of the free NHS funded talking therapy and counselling services available in Kent and Medway. These services are open to everyone aged from 17+.

Are you feeling stressed or depressed or anxious?

Or struggling with a phobia, eating disorder or addiction?

Or if you are looking for someone to help you through a difficult time in life, maybe a friend or relative has died or you’re struggling with fertility of if you have lost your job?

Talking therapies can help all sorts of people in many different situations. Talking therapy is for anyone who’s going through a bad time or who has emotional problems they can’t sort out on their own.

You can refer yourself into this free service and see a NHS funded therapist.

University Medical Centre – 01227 469338 or email [email protected]

University Medical Centre provide counselling and support for common mental health problems; anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem, stress, trauma, phobias and anger, as well as problems with regards to relationships, work or debt.

There are several talking therapy providers in your area so if one has a waiting list why not try another therapy provider go to our list of local NHS Talking Therapy providers which you can find on our NHS Counselling and Therapy page.

This service was provided as part of the IAPT programme, to find out more about IAPT go to: www.iapt.nhs.uk.

Victim Support can help you if you’ve been a victim of any crime or have been affected by a crime committed against someone you know, victim support can help you find the strength to deal with what you’ve been through. Victim Support is here to help anyone affected by crime, not only victims and witnesses, but their friends, family and any other people involved. You can contact them whether or not you reported the crime to the police. They are just there to support you.

Their services are free and available to everyone, whether or not the crime has been reported and regardless of when it happened.

• National Charity offering support for victims and witnesses of crime
• Run the Witness Service in courts
• Support offered for immediate and historic experience of crime
• They help victims to receive respect, recognition and support
• They help victims to get information and an explanation about the progress of their case
• They help victims to be protected in any way necessary
• They help victims to receive compensation

Telephone: 0845 3899528 or Victim Supportline: 0845 3030900.

To go to their website follow the link: www.victimsupport.org.uk