Simple Signposting to Better Health and Wellbeing

Self-care and National Support Services

NATIONAL SUPPORT

Do you think you would benefit from some further support to reduce your drinking to 'lower risk' levels?

• Speak to your GP, a loved one or call Drinkline 0300 1231110 (Mon-Fri 9am - 8pm, weekends 11am - 4pm). The Drinkline service provides free, confidential, accurate and consistent information and advice to callers who are concerned about their own or someone else`s drinking regardless of the caller`s age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity or spirituality.
• The 'One You' drinks tracker app makes it easy to keep an eye on the booze and take control with daily tips and feedback.
• NHS Better Health have a 'Drink Free Days' app and tips on how to reduce alcohol consumption. 
• Mutual Aid services including twelve step programmes and Smart Recovery are available to anyone who wants support to address their drug or alcohol use. You can find a meeting here:
  • Alcoholics Anonymous https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/
  • Narcotics Anonymous https://online.ukna.org/
  • Cocaine Anonymous https://www.ca-online.org/
  • SMART Recovery https://smartrecovery.org.uk/online-meetings/

SELF CARE 

Further tips on cutting down

Make a plan
Before you start drinking, set a limit on how much you're going to drink.

Set a budget
Only take a fixed amount of money to spend on alcohol.

Let them know
If you let your friends and family know you're cutting down and it's important to you, you could get support from them.

Take it a day at a time
Cut back a little each day. That way, every day you do is a success.

Make it a smaller one
You can still enjoy a drink, but go for smaller sizes. Try bottled beer instead of pints, or a small glass of wine instead of a large one.

Have a lower-strength drink
Cut down the alcohol by swapping strong beers or wines for ones with a lower strength (ABV in %). You'll find this information on the bottle.

Stay hydrated
Have a glass of water before you have alcohol and alternate alcoholic drinks with water or a soft drink.

Take a break
Have several drink-free days each week.  

Local Support Services

City and Hackney Recovery Service

Delivered by Turning Point in partnership with Mind CHWF and Antidote, City and Hackney Recovery Service offers free, confidential and accessible substance misuse support and treatment to all Hackney residents.

Experienced staff within City and Hackney Recovery Service understand people have different support and treatment needs around the use of illicit drugs and alcohol and provide a full range of services from harm reduction interventions, to participating in more structured treatment, one-to-one support and clinical services.

Referrals into detox and rehabilitation services are always made as part of a care package to prepare individuals for inpatient treatment and to ensure there is aftercare for sustained recovery.

We will regularly review your care plan with you and adjust the plan to make sure you always receive the appropriate support at the appropriate time.

City and Hackney Recovery Service prioritises providing  support for carers and families, benefits advice and re-integration activities delivering excellent women-only services, LGBTQA+ specific services, rough sleepers services, clear pathways from the criminal justice system into treatment, education and training.   Recovery Workers also deliver treatment in partnership with your GP.

For more information visit City and Hackney Recovery Service. To refer or self-refer, use the online portal, email, or call 0345 144 0050, for advice on treatment or enquiries about drugs.

Find Support Services

Find support services is here to help residents (or those acting on their behalf) find support, advice, classes and activities run by the local community and voluntary sector in Hackney and the City. It is a system-wide initiative between Hackney Council, City of London and the NHS. 

Help comes in many forms. Some people may feel isolated and want a chat; others might be determined to join an exercise class; or decide that this is the time to pick up a new skill or lose an old habit. Some may require specialist advice around finances or employment, or may be concerned about domestic abuse or addiction. Click here to use Find Support Services to find local organisations that can help nearest you!

Self-care and National Support Services

National Support Services

The Money Helper Service was set up by the Government and offers free impartial advice including

• Advice and guides to help improve your finances
• Tools and calculators to help keep track and plan ahead
• Support over the phone and online

https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en

0800 1387777 (free phone)

Citizens Advice Service

The Citizens Advice Service can help you to make the right choices, including help to deal with your debt problems, how to avoid losing your home and how to get your finances back into shape.  Citizens Advice also offer advice on Benefits and Tax credits as it's important to make sure that you get all the help that you're entitled to.

03444 111 444

National Debtline

National Debtline has helped millions of people with their debts. They'll talk you through options and give clear advice on how to take back control.

0808 808 4000

StepChange Debt Charity

StepChange helps change the lives of thousands of people every week. Their expert advice is impartial and personalised to each individual situation.

0800 138 1111

PayPlan

PayPlan's supportive, non-judgemental team of advisers help thousands of people beat their debts every year, and treat all of their calls with the strictest confidence.

0800 280 2816

Debt Advice Foundation

The Debt Advice Foundation is a national debt advice and education charity offering free, confidential support and advice to anyone worried about debt.

0800 622 61 51

Credit Unions

Credit unions can help those who can't get access to ordinary bank products.

Rising cost of Energy

If you are struggling to pay for energy or think you may get into difficulty, contact your supplier.

The energy regulator rules mean suppliers must offer payment plans you can afford and you can ask for ‘emergency credit’ if you use a prepay meter and can’t top up.

Save money off your Gas Bill

Turning down a single setting will make your boiler work more efficiently, saving around £129 a year for the average household.  It only takes a few minutes to lower your flow temperature, and it can be changed back instantly. There’s nothing to lose by trying it.  Advice from Nesta, the UK's innovation agency for social good.

Walkthrough - Money Saving Boiler Challenge

Local Support Services

https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/getting-help-with-the-cost-of-living

Mayor of London - Borough Support

This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.

Find Support Services

Find support services is here to help residents (or those acting on their behalf) find support, advice, classes and activities run by the local community and voluntary sector in Hackney and the City. It is a system-wide initiative between Hackney Council, City of London and the NHS. 

Help comes in many forms. Some people may feel isolated and want a chat; others might be determined to join an exercise class; or decide that this is the time to pick up a new skill or lose an old habit. Some may require specialist advice around finances or employment, or may be concerned about domestic abuse or addiction. Click here to use Find Support Services to find local organisations that can help nearest you!

Self-care and National Support Services

Self Care

The NHS Better Health website has a range of resources, tips and apps available to help with weight management and encourage a nutritious diet.  

NHS Digital Weight Management Programme

A GP or pharmacist can refer a person to the NHS Digital Weight Management Programme if the individual comes into the following category: 

• They are aged 18 or over.
• They have a BMI greater than 30. (The BMI threshold will be lowered to 27.5 for people from black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds, as we know people from these ethnic backgrounds are at an increased risk of conditions such as Type 2 diabetes at a lower BMI.)
• They have diabetes, high blood pressure, or both.
• They have a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access.
  
  

Local Support Services

Fusion - Exercise on Referral Service

• Friendly advice and guidance delivered by our expert team who will help participants to achieve their weight loss goals
• 2 exercise sessions a week including gym, aqua, badminton, circuits and more plus tailored support where necessary 
• Supporting materials full of weight loss tips, nutrition advice and links to other resources
• Fast results that will encourage participants to continue with their weight loss journey
• Option for ongoing support beyond the 12 week programme to continue weight loss and maintain a healthy lifestyle
  
  

Bags of Taste 

Bags of Taste provides free cooking lessons to City residents on how to cook great food on a budget, with recipes for under £1 a meal.

Courses run regularly throughout the year and a free lunch will be provided and a bag of take-home ingredients can be bought for £3 (for four meals).

For more information about the course details or to register interest please use the contact details below. 

Website: https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/health-and-wellbeing/Pages/healthy-eating.aspx

Website: https://www.bagsoftaste.org/courses/#city

Telephone: 07768 843 150

Email: city@bagsoftaste.org

HENRYHENRY is passionate about babies and children getting the best possible start in life. This means supporting the whole family to make positive lifestyle changes, creating healthier and happier home environments, and building healthier communities. Early childhood presents a unique window of opportunity to get children off to the best possible start. It’s often a time when families have considerable contact with a variety of family support services and also a time when parents may be more receptive to external support and guidance. Habits formed in early childhood are enduring; poor habits, once established, are very difficult to break. If you are living in City & Hackney or registered with a GP in the area and you have a child/ren under 5 years old you can self-refer to their service. They deliver a range of one-off group workshops and a longer 8-week Healthy Families programme.

Telephone: 07519 109876 | 020 7254 9939

Email: hcsupport@henry.org.uk

Website: https://www.henry.org.uk/support-families-hackney

Alexandra Rose

The mission at Alexandra Rose Charity is to help low-income families access fresh fruit and veg in their local communities. Our Rose Vouchers for Fruit & Veg Project provides families with Rose Vouchers every week, to help them afford fruit and veg. The vouchers are collected from local children's centres and some community organisations and spent with local market traders and greengrocers.

A family receives £4 worth of Rose Vouchers per child aged 4 years and under (or £6 if the child is under one year old) each week.

Please click here to learn more about how the project works and whether you are eligible for the vouchers.

Website: https://www.alexandrarose.org.uk/

Find Support Services

Find support services is here to help residents (or those acting on their behalf) find support, advice, classes and activities run by the local community and voluntary sector in Hackney and the City. It is a system-wide initiative between Hackney Council, City of London and the NHS. 

Help comes in many forms. Some people may feel isolated and want a chat; others might be determined to join an exercise class; or decide that this is the time to pick up a new skill or lose an old habit. Some may require specialist advice around finances or employment, or may be concerned about domestic abuse or addiction. Click here to use Find Support Services to find local organisations that can help nearest you!

Healthy Start VouchersIf you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk. If you’re eligible, you’ll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. We’ll add your benefit onto this card every 4 weeks. Find out more about eligibility here.

Website: https://www.healthystart.nhs.uk/

Self-care and National Support Services

If you think the person you are concerned about is in immediate danger or needs urgent care, please call 999.

Whilst there are some amazing national services available, we recommend a local first approach. A list of local services can be found at the foot of this text.

Not sure which local authority area to choose? If you know a postcode you can check which local authority area here.

Street Link is a national service which can be used by members of the public if they see people sleeping rough. Referrals can be made online or via telephone (0300 500 0914).

Supporting access to primary care

Groundswell have produced and widely circulated small, plastic, credit card-style cards called ‘My Right to Healthcare’. These cards emphasise the person’s right to register and highlight that they may need assistance to complete forms and help with reading and understanding. The cards can be used to remind GP receptionists and other practice staff of the national patient registration guidance from NHS England. The cards are freely available and can be downloaded and printed locally.

Local Support Services

Homelessness or at risk - City of London

In addition to the persons written or verbal consent, try to gather the following information to include on the duty to refer form.

• Person’s name
• Contact details – include a mobile phone number
• Address (if any)
• Household members / Next of Kin – if known
• Any other support needs, health issues or vulnerabilities

While someone can apply to any local authority, they should be made aware that the local authority might refer them to another local authority if they do not have a local connection to the area where they are applying for assistance. Local authorities should not refuse to accept a homeless application because a person does not have a local connection and must still provide emergency accommodation if the person is vulnerable or has significant health and social support needs.

Find Support Services

Find support services is here to help residents (or those acting on their behalf) find support, advice, classes and activities run by the local community and voluntary sector in Hackney and the City. It is a system-wide initiative between Hackney Council, City of London and the NHS. 

Help comes in many forms. Some people may feel isolated and want a chat; others might be determined to join an exercise class; or decide that this is the time to pick up a new skill or lose an old habit. Some may require specialist advice around finances or employment, or may be concerned about domestic abuse or addiction. Click here to use Find Support Services to find local organisations that can help nearest you!

Self-care and National Support Services

The London Damp and Mould Checklist is designed by London’s public health system partners, who have worked together to produce a checklist resource for use by health and social care professionals who visit residential properties as part of their management and care of patients.

It provides a checklist and guidance to support the identification of internal damp and mould, as well as people at risk of poor health due to damp and mould exposure in their home. There is also an emphasis on prevention of damp and mould for all residents.

Where concerns are identified this resource provides guidance for tenants on actions to take in the form of advice, signposting, and template letters to inform local authority housing teams, housing associations, landlords and health services of any concerns.

 

We would really value your feedback on this resource.

To provide feedback, please email LondonDampandMould@dhsc.gov.uk  

 

Local Support Services

Preventing Damp and Mould in the City of London

Mould is a type of fungi that can grow both indoors and outdoors. A key cause of damp and mould is condensation which can be caused by everyday living and occurs when excess warm moisture in the air comes into contact with cooler air or a cold surface. Everyday activities such as cooking, showering/bathing and drying clothes indoors can cause condensation. This handy leaflet also provides additional information.

Reporting Leaks, Damp and Mould in the City

Please try and report suspected condensation/damp mould issues as soon as possible. 

• If the repairs team can identify the root cause (for example, a leak) easily over the phone, they will arrange a repair.
• Wherever possible, the repairs team will inspect within 5 working days (subject to access) to identify the possible causes and associated remedial works.
• Remedial works will be completed within seven working days of an order being placed.
• The repairs team will also discuss the matter with the tenants, providing advice and guidance as appropriate.
• Completed works will be post inspected by Property Services Officers.

To report a suspected condensation/damp mould issue, you can complete this form, email: propertyservices@cityoflondon.gov.uk, or call 0800 035 0003. This phone line is available 24 hours, seven days a week. All faults can be reported between 8am - 5pm. Out of hours emergency repairs can only be reported between 5pm - 8am. For gas repair, please press option two and you will be passed onto TSG Building Services.

Additional Resources:

We recognise the concerns people will have with their heating bills due to the rising cost of living, including keeping their homes warm to help prevent condensation from building up. Below is some additional support that may be helpful. 

• The London Energy Saving Squad Ltd (LESS) - provide advice and information on damp, mould and condensation; ventilation; heating controls; and bill switching as well as energy saving top tips. Call their free line on 0800 915 3575.
• London SHINE - set up to help residents keep well and warm throughout the year and avoid cold-related conditions during winter and anxiety over paying the fuel bills. Contact their advice line on 0800 281 768. For more information see shine-london.org.uk
• Priority Services Registers - vulnerable residents can sign up to these with their energy company to ensure they get priority help and support if there is an issue with their supply. More information can be found on the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (OFGEM) website: www.ofgem.gov.uk/getting-extra-help-priority-services-register
• The Green Doctors - The Green Doctors, run by Groundwork London, deliver energy advice for free to residents in the City of London (and on City Corporation estates). They can help you by chatting to you about energy tariffs, getting you onto the Priority Services Register so that your energy provider can give you extra support if you need it and they can also install energy saving devices.The free consultation can be completed here or call 0300 365 3005 (free to call) and select option one - open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Mayor of London - Borough Support

The Mayor of London is funding free local advice services for vulnerable Londoners and those on low incomes: Warmer Homes Advice Service in your borough

If a tenant is concerned about a private landlord, they can consider reporting them through the GLA’s rogue landlord process.

Self-care and National Support Services

If someone needs help for a mental health crisis, emergency or breakdown, you should seek immediate expert advice and assessment. It's important to know that support is available, even if services seem busy at the moment because of coronavirus.

Scrolling down to the local listings below will provide you with a crisis line number to use in an emergency for each London borough.

However, if someone’s life is at risk – for example they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose and you do not feel that you can keep yourself or someone else safe you should call 999.

A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone's time.

If you are not able to speak to your local NHS urgent mental health helpline and you need help urgently for a mental health issue, but it's not an emergency, you should call 111 who will tell you the right place to get help.

 

If you are worried that this person is at risk of suicide, please also see the section for Suicide Prevention.

You can also encourage them to ring:

Samaritans - (All age groups)

Tel: 116 123, open 24 hours a day.

Papyrus - (Young people)

Tel: 0800 068 41 41

Text: 07786209697

Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org

Opening hours - Mon-Fri: 10am-10pm, weekends: 2pm-10pm & bank holidays: 2pm-5pm

If you're under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill.

 

Coping during a crisis

The mental health charity Mind has information on ways to help yourself cope during a crisis.

This includes calming exercises and a tool to get you through the next few hours.

Local Support Services

24-hour Mental Health Crisis Helpline

East London NHS Foundation Trust: 0800 073 0006 (24-hour freephone)

If you are a resident in the City of London, you can phone the 24-hour crisis helpline if you are worried about your mental health, or are in distress and need to contact a health professional at any time. The crisis helpline can:
• Support and help you if you have mental health problems
• Provide accurate information and advice about local mental health services
• Communication with other services or teams on your behalf if you wish
• Support you in a non-directive way, to empower and encourage you to take control of your own life and come to your own decision

Website: https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/health-and-wellbeing/mental-health-and-wellbeing

If you see anyone in crisis in the City in a public location, they should call the Police and ask to be directed to the Mental Health Street Triage.

Self-care and National Support Services

The following resources are available to support people who are experiencing mental health challenges, however if they are in crisis and need urgent access to support, please go to the URGENT MENTAL HEALTH section of MECC Link where you can find local support services for mental health emergencies.

For non-urgent mental health support, encourage the person to contact their GP.  Always give reassurances that there are lots of sources for support, however they wish to access and use them.

Scroll to the bottom of the page to see listings of local support services in their borough.

Self Care Resources

• Good Thinking provides digital mental wellbeing support for Londoners. This includes free NHS-approved apps to help you deal with stress, anxiety, low mood and poor sleep. 
• Every Mind Matters is an NHS-approved digital hub full of expert advice and practical tips to achieve good mental health. 
• The NHS have other self-help tools available, including 5 steps to mental wellbeing.
• Mind 'The charity for better mental health' has an extensive range of self help resources available.
• For Men -CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) offer accredited, confidential and free support to men anywhere in the UK through a helpline and web and webchat service.

Support Services

Adults

Adults can self-refer to Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services. IAPT is a national NHS programme, which offers evidence based psychological therapies or interventions approved by the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). IAPT is primarily for treating people with mild to moderate mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

IAPT treatments are delivered via a stepped care model where patients are initially offered low intensity therapies, such as computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (cCBT) and guided self-help. If these treatments are unsuccessful, or not appropriate for individuals, higher intensity therapies are utilised and include one to one cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT). Please see local support and contact details for further information.

Children and Young People

The Mix is a leading support service that can help young people to take on challenges they are facing - from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs. 

0808 0808 4994 (Freephone)

Parents

YoungMinds run a free, confidential parents helpline, which parents/careers can call if they are worried about how a child or young person is feeling or behaving.  They also run a group called Parents Say, for parents whose children are accessing Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.

Perinatal

The PANDAS Foundation supports and advises parents who is experiencing a perinatal mental illness. They also inform and guide family members, carers, friends and employers as to how they can support someone who is suffering.

0843 2898401 (0900 - 2000 hrs, 7 days per week)

Carers

The Carers Trust contains helpful guides for carers on relationship management and information on self-care and respite care.

Refugees and asylum seekers

Thrive LDN have produced a number of resources designed to support new arrivals to the UK, including:

• Guidance for supporting the mental health and wellbeing of displaced Ukrainians
• Supporting the mental health and wellbeing of Afghan refugees
• Wellbeing guidance in 36 languages

Good Thinking’s 'Coping with Trauma' workbook outlines seven techniques to help people who have experienced trauma.

Veterans

Veterans Combat Stress is the UK's leading mental health charity for veterans. They offer free, confidential 24-hour support to Service and ex-Service personnel who are experiencing mental health issues, including feeling suicidal.

0800 138 1619

Local Support Services

Support for mental health and wellbeing

A full list of free support services available to City residents, workers and students is available at https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/health-and-wellbeing/mental-health-and-wellbeing

You can also visit https://hackney.gov.uk/mental-health for further support available to City residents. 

Talking Therapies (IAPT)

We are a confidential NHS service for adults registered with a GP in City and Hackney. We offer a wide range of tried and tested NHS talking therapies. Talking with a trained professional can help you work out how to deal with negative thoughts and feelings and learn new skills to get you back on track.

Website: https://cityandhackneytalkingtherapies.homerton.nhs.uk/ 

Telephone: 0207 683 4278

Email: huh-tr.talkingtherapy@nhs.net

The City and Hackney Wellbeing Network

The City and Hackney Wellbeing Network, offers high-quality free support to help people prevent the onset of mental health problems and alleviate issues such as stress, anxiety and low mood. We also offer support to adults with severe and enduring mental health conditions.

A dynamic and diverse partnership of eleven specialist mental health providers, the Wellbeing Network empowers people towards better mental and physical wellbeing. We offer an exciting range of groups and courses to support people to improve their mental wellbeing, physical health, social networks and daily living skills.

Website: https://chwellbeingnetwork.london/

Telephone: 020 8525 2301

Email: spoe@mindchwf.org.uk

Your GP

Your GP can also provide mental health support advice, treatment and referrals to specialist mental health services. If you’re not registered with a GP you can find one on NHS UK.

The City and Hackney Service User Network

Peer to peer support network for people who experience emotional and psychological distress, frequent mood changes, emotional instability, self-harm and/ or have thoughts of suicide.  The Network can also support family, friends and people who support someone with mental health issues  

Telephone: 07508 842 688

Dragon Café

Dragon Café in the City welcomes anyone working or living in the Square Mile. It's a space where you can "release the pressure" of work, home or day-to-day life. Come along and take part in a range of free activities promoting mental wellbeing, or just to relax and meditate in the space. It takes place every fortnight on a Wednesday from 12 noon - 7.30pm.

Website: https://www.dragoncafeinthecity.com/

City and Hackney Bereavement Support Services through St. Joseph's Hospice

City residents can access free support for bereavement through St Joseph's Hospice. 

Telephone: 0300 303 0400

Email: stjosephs.firstcontact@nhs.net

City and Hackney CAMHS

CAMHS stands for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service and is an NHS service for children, young people (0-18) and their families, where there are concerns about emotional well-being, behaviour and mental health.

There are three services within CAMHS:
- First Steps Early Intervention & Community Psychology Service
- Specialist CAMHS
- CAMHS Disability

For more information about the services, please visit our website.

Website: https://cityandhackneycamhs.org.uk/

Telephone:

• First Steps Early Intervention & Community Psychology Service: 0207 014 7135
• Specialist CAMHS: 0203 222 5600
• CAMHS Disability: 0207 014 7071

City and Hackney Suicide prevention

• If you believe that somebody is at immediate risk of harming themselves or somebody else call 999
• People who need urgent crisis support in Hackney can call the 24-hour City & Hackney crisis helpline at this number: 0800 073 0006 (urgent support page)
• Safe Connections supports people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts to, offers specialist bereavement support for residents bereaved following a suicide and provides suicide prevention training for local resident facing staff.
• Maytree: Maytree is a residential respite centre for people who are feeling suicidal. They are not a crisis intervention centre that can be accessed immediately. Telephone support is offered between 8am and 8pm daily. Due to high service demand, the current wait time to be contacted for an initial befriending call is up to 72 hours.
• Your local GP.  Your local GP may be able to refer people who are feeling suicidal to specialist mental health support.
• James Place: Offers free, focused, one to one therapy to men which helps them understand and recover from a suicidal crisis. Men referred to them typically receive six to eight face to face sessions with a trained therapist in a calm and peaceful environment. Men can self-refer or be referred by a health professional. To refer a man in suicidal crisis please fill out a referral form here: www.jamesplace.org.uk/get-support
• The Listening Place: The Listening Place is somewhere individuals can talk openly about their feelings without being judged or being given advice. More information can be accessed here: https://listeningplace.org.uk/
• Samaritans: Whatever somebody is going through, they can contact Samaritans any time for free. Call:116 123 (or email, web chat or write letter - more info at https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/.

Find Support Services

Find support services is here to help residents (or those acting on their behalf) find support, advice, classes and activities run by the local community and voluntary sector in Hackney and the City. It is a system-wide initiative between Hackney Council, City of London and the NHS. 

Help comes in many forms. Some people may feel isolated and want a chat; others might be determined to join an exercise class; or decide that this is the time to pick up a new skill or lose an old habit. Some may require specialist advice around finances or employment, or may be concerned about domestic abuse or addiction. Click here to use Find Support Services to find local organisations that can help nearest you!

Self-care and National Support Services

 Self Care

• The Couch to 5K phone app has been designed to help get people off the couch and running in just 9 weeks.
• The Active 10 phone app show you how how much brisk walking you do and helps to show you how you can fit a ten minute brisk walk into your day. It breaks this brisk walking down into manageable chunks of ten minutes and encourages at least one session every day (which equates to 70 minutes a week). Users can set their own goals and the app encourages people to progress up to 30 brisk minutes of walking per day, to meet the 150 minutes recommended by the Chief Medical Officer
• Why not join a Parkrun in your local area? Did you know that one of the best things about Parkrun and Junior Park run is that you can run, or jog or walk entirely at your own pace. This makes it accessible for those who never could envisage running 2k or 5k and creates an environment where people feel welcome.

Active Travel Toolkit

The Greater London Authority have produced a toolkit to support healthcare professionals to social prescribe active travel.

Local Support Services

Fusion/Golden Lane Sports Facilities

Keep fit and healthy in the City of London with great facilities, excellent equipment and enjoyable atmosphere. Golden Lane Sport & Fitness offers the following facilities:
• Wide range of group exercise classes
• Fully equipped gym
• Indoor badminton courts
• Outdoor netball courts
• Outdoor tennis courts
• Short mat bowls
• Table tennis
• Swimming pool

Website: https://www.fusion-lifestyle.com/centres/golden-lane-sport-fitness/

Telephone: 020 7250 1464

Active City Network

The Active City Network (ACN) is a forum led by the City of London Corporation and made up of Square Mile businesses. Its aim is to establish a communication channel to both talk to and get feedback from employers about initiatives in the City to support safer and healthier commuting. As part of the ACN City employers can access a range of free services, including:
• Consultation with expert planners to assist development of travel strategy, setting up Cycle to Work, etc.
• Access to networking events to share information and best practise
• Business Roadshow events and presentations in workplace premises
• Cycle Skills training for staff
• Led walks and cycle rides
• Dr. Bike servicing of staff bikes.

Website: https://www.activecitynetwork.com/

Email: rdr@cityoflondon.gov.uk

Homerton Tier 3 Weight Management ProgrammeThe City & Hackney Specialist Adult Weight Management Service (C&H SAWMS) are commissioned to work with clients who have not benefited from other local weight management interventions. They are a Tier 3 service consisting of a dedicated team of weight management specialists from different professional backgrounds including a clinical psychologist, a dietitian and a physiotherapist. The service is only able to accept referrals from local GPs. If you would like to be referred to please make an appointment with your GP or practice nurse and request that a referral is made.

Website: https://www.homerton.nhs.uk/adult-weight-management-service/

Power Up!

Power Up! offers a digital and face-to-face 12-week intervention for children, young people and their families 5-19 yrs who are above a healthy weight (BMI >91st centile).

Our service has input from Physiotherapy, Dietetics, Health Coach, CAMHS and Nursing.

Please contact us for information, to request training, or to make a referral for yourself, a family member or a family you work on.

Telephone: 020 7014 7066 Monday – Friday 9am - 5pm

Email: huh-tr.powerupcandh@nhs.net

Website: https://www.homerton.nhs.uk/powerup/

Young at Heart

Are you over 50 and keen to improve your health and fitness whilst having fun? If so, the Young at Heart programme is for you. When you join the Young at Heart programme you will receive:
• Access to a wide range of activities and classes for FREE
• A free health check four times per year
• A Young at Heart membership card, a weekly timetable of activities, a walks programme, information on healthy living, a stretch exercises band and exercise guide, and a pedometer (step counter)
• A calendar of social events, including quiz nights, day trips and parties
• All the latest events and opportunities detailed in a quarterly newsletter
Annual membership for the Young at Heart programme costs:
• £25 for City of London residents over 65
• £30 for City of London residents under 65
• £35 for non-residents aged over 65
• £40 for non-residents aged under 65

Website: https://www.fusion-lifestyle.com/centres/golden-lane-sport-fitness

The City of London Walking Map & Hidden City Walking MapDiscover the hidden gems within the Square Mile and enjoy a pedestrian friendly route to your destination. 

Website for the City of London Walking Map: https://content.tfl.gov.uk/city-of-london-walking-map.pdf

Website for the Hidden City Walking Map: https://www.activecitynetwork.com/news/walking-maps-the-great-escape

Health & Wellbeing Coaches

A Health and Wellbeing Coach can help support people with lifestyle changes and the self-management of health conditions such as diabetes, weight loss, chronic pain.

Website: https://www.shoreditchtrust.org.uk/health-and-wellbeing/health-and-wellbeing-coaching/

Go JauntlyDiscover Walking Routes & Challenges. Find new walking tours based on your location. Simple photo guides help you navigate while nifty tips point out things of interest. Sign up to walking challenges or enjoy green routes from A to B or circular walking routes in the UK & Ireland.

Website: https://www.gojauntly.com/

Find Support Services

Find support services is here to help residents (or those acting on their behalf) find support, advice, classes and activities run by the local community and voluntary sector in Hackney and the City. It is a system-wide initiative between Hackney Council, City of London and the NHS. 

Help comes in many forms. Some people may feel isolated and want a chat; others might be determined to join an exercise class; or decide that this is the time to pick up a new skill or lose an old habit. Some may require specialist advice around finances or employment, or may be concerned about domestic abuse or addiction. Click here to use Find Support Services to find local organisations that can help nearest you!

Self-care and National Support Services

Reassure them that sexual health services are confidential, and free of charge in most cases.

Self Care

For information about sexual health, STIs, HIV and contraception visit Sexwise, It Starts With Me or the NHS website.

The Sexual Health Helpline provides advice and information on all aspects of sexual health, call free on 0300 123 7123 (open from 9am-8pm, Monday-Friday and Saturday-Sunday 11am to 4pm). Calls will be treated with sensitivity and in strict confidence.

Contraception Choices is designed to help people decide which method of contraception might suit them best and provides honest information on the advantages and disadvantages of each method.

Community Pharmacies

Emergency hormonal contraception is effective up to five days after sex and is available from most community pharmacies. Some pharmacies may charge for this service, so it is advised to call ahead to check what they offer.

Click here to find a pharmacy

General Practice

If registered with a GP, routine contraception and, in some cases, Long-Acting Reversible methods (such as an Interuterine Device/’coil’ or a contraceptive injection or implant) can be provided. Suggest contacting local practice directly to find out what they can offer.

Click here to find a GP

Support for victims of sexual assault

The Havens provide specialist centres across London for people who have been raped or sexually assaulted. For urgent advice and an initial assessment call 020 3299 6900.

Other local services

Go to the local support section for information on what is available in each borough.

Local Support Services

• If you live in the City of London and you’re over 16, and have no or mild STI symptoms, you can order a free kit to easily test yourself for STIs in the privacy of your own home through Sexual Health London. There is no referral process – the service is accessed via SHL’s website.
• City residents who may be at-risk of having contracted Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or HIV, can take a free, confidential test at a local GP surgery, or at Homerton Hospital.

Order Free Contraception Online

Access Free Condoms

When used correctly and consistently, condoms are an extremely effective method of preventing STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea, and avoiding unwanted pregnancies. 

If you’re under 25 and live, work or study in Hackney or the City of London, you can get free condoms and lubricant through our Condom Distribution Scheme. You can register here.

You can also access free condoms if you are 25+ years old, and in the following group(s) at higher risk of STIs and HIV:

• gay/bisexual men
• client of a substance misuse service
• involved in sex working
• Black African or Black Caribbean

A list of outlets providing free condoms to under-25s can be accessed on the Young Hackney website. Free condoms for 25+ in higher-risk groups can also be accessed from some of the pharmacies listed on this page.

Holistic Support for residents living with, or affected by, HIV

Adults living with HIV

Positive East works with the City of London residents living with or affected by HIV. They provide support and advice on HIV, as well as health and wellbeing, benefit advice, housing issues and more. They also offer free and confidential counselling and psychotherapy sessions.

Referrals can be made through your hospital clinic or by calling 020 7791 2855. Proof of HIV status will be requested. HIV testing is for people who live or work in east London. For more information please call 020 7791 2855 or email Positive East.

Children, young people and families affected by HIV

Body and Soul supports children, teenagers and families living with, or closely affected by, HIV, who live in the City.

It provides an array of support, including peer support groups and information workshops for children, teenagers and adults; one-to-one counselling with mental health professionals; information and advocacy on issues, such as health and treatment, welfare, human rights and immigration; and much more.

They are currently accepting new referrals which can be done by completing their online referral form. Once complete, a member of staff will get in touch to arrange a time to register the person either being referred or referring themselves.

To find out more about Body & Soul’s services and how to become a member, please call 020 7923 6880 or email Body & Soul.

Information videos about the COVID-19 vaccine for people living with HIV

• COVID-19 vaccines for people with HIV (Dr Vanessa Apea) - National Aidsmap
• Q&A: COVID-19 vaccines and people living with HIV - UK-CAB

Do It London

The City of London Corporation is proud to support the Do It London campaign, which urges Londoners to get tested for HIV.

Testing is the only way to be sure of your HIV status. The earlier you test, the lower the risk of the infection damaging your health. Condoms and other methods, such as PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) are crucial to reducing the risk of HIV transmission. Condoms also protect against other sexually transmitted infections.

Young People (under 19s)

A dedicated Young People clinic is open at the Clifden Centre every afternoon from Monday to Friday, and you can walk in without having to make an appointment to see a dedicated and friendly sexual health nurse or doctor for a confidential service.

Support for Sex Workers in the City and Hackney

Open Doors is a free and confidential advice service for people working in the sex industry in Hackney and the City of London. It is delivered by Homerton Sexual Health Service and can provide a range of support, including access to specialist sexual health services, condoms, psychological support, and other forms of support. Open Doors provides outreach and drop-in clinics. To find out more, please call the team on 07984 401 346, or visit the Open Doors website.

Financial terms for the provision of GUM services to residents

For those providers without a negotiated position:

Please ensure you quote the correct prices according to the year in which care was provided otherwise your invoice will be rejected.

Providers of GUM services who wish to submit invoices totalling more than £1,000 per annum must be registered as a supplier to the Council and all providers must fully comply with the terms and conditions.

Failure to comply with the financial terms and follow the payment process will lead to a rejection of an invoice. No alternative payment terms or mechanisms are available.

Please note: Hackney Council works on behalf of the City of London Corporation in relation to sexual health. Suppliers should contact Hackney Council directly in relation to any queries.

Please also see this document.

Support for victims of sexual assault

The Havens provide specialist centres across London for people who have been raped or sexually assaulted. For urgent advice and an initial assessment call 020 3299 6900.

Self-care and National Support Services

NATIONAL SUPPORT

• Call the free Smokefree National Helpline to speak to a trained, expert adviser on 0300 123 1044. All lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm and Saturday and Sunday 11am to 4pm*.
• Smokefree has lots of free support this includes a smartphone app, email programme or text messages that will keep you focused wherever you are.
• You can also speak to your doctor, pharmacy team or local Stop Smoking Service for expert advice on stop smoking medicines.

SELF CARE

• Download the NHS Smokefree app from itunes or google play
• Get further information from the National Health Service www.nhs.uk/quit
• Consider using e-cigarettes to stop smoking
• Millions have used Smokefree support to help them stop smoking. Choose from an app, email, SMS and face-to-face guidance. 

Emphasise that quitting will the best thing they will ever do and the NHS Smokefree service can provide the friendly and helpful support they need to quit for good

Illegal Tobacco

The availability of cheap, illegal tobacco can seriously undermine attempts to stop smoking. Did you know that you can report any sales of illegal tobacco in your community by contacting Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline anonymously on 0808 223 1133, or report it online at http://www.londontradingstandards.org.uk/report-consumer-crime/.  Click on our regional resources tab to see more information about how organisations in London are working together on the Stamp It Out campaign and how you can help.

Local Support Services

Gloji | Smokefree City and Hackney

Self-care and National Support Services

Booking an appointment

For those wishing to find out whether they are eligible for a vaccination and how to book an appointment, go back to the Assist section and guide them through. 

Local information and support

Specific borough information for local vaccination and support services can be found below. 

Local Support Services

Website: https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/health-and-wellbeing/safe-and-effective-vaccines

 

Website: https://www.homerton.nhs.uk/covid-recovery-and-rehabilitation/