Simple Signposting to Better Health and Wellbeing
Hertfordshire
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
- Compare different electricity/gas deals by using a OFGEM 'Confidence Code Accreditation' price comparison service
- The Citizen Advice Guide has a useful guide on 'How to Compare Energy Tariffs'
- You can get help and impartial independent advice on how you could benefit from heating and insulation measures on the Simple Energy Advice website Simple Energy Advice
- Your energy supplier may provide a service called the 'Warm Home Discount scheme' which pays £140 either to your electricity account or vouchers to top up your electricity meter. You will need to contact your electricity supplier to see if you meet their eligibility criteria
- People aged 60 or over, disabled people or those who suffer from a chronic illness, are entitled to a range of services, by signing up for free to their energy suppliers Priority Service Register. The Priority Service Register has also been recently extended to include:
- Customers with certain mental health conditions which impact on them understanding their bill
- Customers who cannot top up their pre-payment meter due to injury
- Temporary circumstances where a customer needs extra support for a limited amount of time
- Details of how to join can be found on the reverse of your energy bill
- If you don't know who your current gas and electricity supplier is, this can be checked by contacting:
- For Gas - Meter Point Reference Line - 0870 6081524
- For Electricity - UK Power Networks
- If you are experiencing difficulties paying your gas/or electricity bill or have an energy debt then you should contact your supplier in the first instance. Other impartial advice is available from the National debtline 0808 808 4000 or from the StepChange debt Charity 0800 138 1111.
- Customers with certain mental health conditions which impact on them understanding their bill
- Customers who cannot top up their pre-payment meter due to injury
- Temporary circumstances where a customer needs extra support for a limited amount of time
- Details of how to join can be found on the reverse of your energy bill
- For Gas - Meter Point Reference Line - 0870 6081524
- For Electricity - UK Power Networks
Preparing for Colder Weather
- From keeping your house warm to protecting yourself from common ailments, find out how to stay healthy this winter on NHS Choices.
Local Support Services
Hertfordshire County Council
Visit Hertfordshire County Council for advice on support for cost of living including energy, heating and utilities support.
Energy Saving Trust
As part of the national and local drive to tackle fuel poverty and climate change, there is a wide range of help and advice available both locally and nationally. The Energy Saving Trust provides free and independent advice on what would be beneficial for your home, offering a number of different housing grants and loans including those which can help with insulation and/or heating.
Website: https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/
Telephone: 0800 444 202
Offer: National
Better Housing Better Health
Better Housing Better Health are here to help keep residents warm and well at home and improve the energy efficiency of their homes. In a preventative approach to health and wellbeing, our service provides residents with a single point of contact to get impartial expert advice to help improve the energy efficiency of their home, save money and improve comfort.
To help achieve our mission of tackling fuel poverty and creating healthier homes, we’re extending our warmth and wellbeing service into Dacorum, Central Bedfordshire and Luton after securing funding from the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme.
To request an assessment contact online or the contact number below.
Website: https://www.bhbh.org.uk/
Telephone: 0800 107 0044
Offer: National
Warm Spaces
“With a cost of living & climate crisis, many of us are facing tough decisions. Some of us have moved to working from home following the pandemic and are facing a winter with increased energy bills. Others are facing even harder decisions about whether to heat or eat.
Warm Spaces is designed to signpost anyone in need of warmth, to a warm space to share with others.”
Website: https://warmspaces.org/
Offer: National
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
- Download the 'One You' drinks tracker makes it easy to keep an eye on the booze and take control with daily tips and feedback) available on itunes or google play
- Get further information from NHS Choices www.nhs.uk
- Download the free Drink Coach app, which features a range of tools proven to help you reduce your alcohol intake. The DrinkCoach website also provides tips and advice to help you reduce your alcohol intake. You can take a quick, free and confidential test to see how much alcohol you're drinking and get access to online coaching
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
CGL Spectrum
We can help you to address your drinking and make positive changes during 6 sessions with an experienced alcohol worker.
All of these sessions will be held via telephone or video call, so you can discuss your drinking in an environment that’s comfortable and easy for you. We can hold these sessions in the evening and at weekends.
We will explore your relationship with alcohol, the impact on your life and help you to cut back with useful coping strategies and tips to build strong mental and emotional resilience.
If you find you need extra help, we can also provide more intensive support for your drinking.
Tel: 0800 652 3159
Web: Alcohol telecoms service - Spectrum Drug and Alcohol Recovery Services | Change Grow Live
The Living Room
The Living Room, treats all addictions and is accessible to all.
The Living Room maintains that on-going recovery from addiction is possible with a range of cognitive tools and the appropriate support networks.
Tel: 0300 365 0304
Web: Alcohol Addiction (livingroomherts.org)
Self-care and National Support Services
Give reassurances that there are lots of sources of support and help your bereaved person make contact with sources of support.
If you are worried that this person is in crisis, please see section for Suicide Prevention
If no immediate risk take the following steps:
Encourage and support them to contact:
National Bereavement Service
Most people will have to take responsibility for all the practical arrangements after a death, at least once in their lives. For others, it can be many more times. In any circumstance, loss is a difficult and often distressing time.
The National Bereavement Service offers practical and emotional support to guide you through what needs to be done. We can introduce the bereaved to trusted partner organisations in both private and charitable sectors, as well as provide information on the statutory requirements following loss, such as the registration of death and probate.
Tel: 0800 0246 121 Website: https://thenbs.org/
Cruse
Cruse offers advice and information about types of support, where to get it, and help supporting other people. They also have a telephone helpline and webchat service enabling people to talk about how they are feeling Home - Cruse Bereavement Support.
Supporting other people - Cruse Bereavement Support
Mind
The charity Mind has a wealth of information about different types of bereavement, where to go for support and suggestions for helping yourself and others Support and self-care for grief - Mind. This includes a dedicated section with information on Losing someone to suicide - Mind
Age UK
Bereavement - Find support with coping | Age UK
Child Bereavement UK
Child Bereavement UK helps families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies. We support children and young people (up to the age of 25) when someone important to them has died or is not expected to live, and parents and the wider family when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying.
Tel: 0800 02 888 40 Website: https://www.childbereavementuk.org/
SELF CARE
- Encourage the person to contact their GP. Their GP will be able support the person in many ways
- Mind 'The charity for better mental health' has an extensive range of self help resources available
- The NHS have has a range of self-help tools available
- Andy's Man Club provides a weekly talking group, a place for men to come together in a safe environment to talk about issues/problems they be have faced or currently been facing. Meetings take place regularly in different locations across the region, where applicable these can be found in the local support and contact details section.
- 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. They talk through any issue with you and offer support, advice and signposting.
- Qwell - Free, safe and anonymous mental wellbeing support for adults across the UK
- Kooth - is your online mental wellbeing community. Access free, safe and anonymous support, for 11-25 year olds
Every Mind Matters
‘Every Mind Matters’ is the first national mental health campaign from Public Health England
- It’s an NHS-approved digital hub full of expert advice and practical tips to achieve good mental health
- It also has a free NHS-approved online tool - ‘Your Mind Plan’ to help us:
- deal with stress
- boost our mood
- improve our sleep
- feel more in control.
Search online for 'Every Mind Matters'
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
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.
Support Services - 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.
Tel: 0800 138 1619
Web: https://www.combatstress.org.uk/help-you
Support Services - Perinatal
PANDAS Foundation
The PANDAS Foundation is here to help support and advise any parent who is experiencing a perinatal mental illness. We are also here to inform and guide family members, carers, friends and employers as to how they can support someone who is suffering.
Tel: 0843 2898401 (0900 - 2000 hrs, 7 days per week)
Web: http://www.pandasfoundation.org.uk/
Support Services - Carers
The Carers Trust
It is important that you take care of your own health, even if you are busy looking after someone else's health. Being healthy is not only important for you, but it also helps the person you care after too. The website contains some helpful guides on relationship management and information on self-care and respite care.
Support Services - Children and Young People
Children and Young People can contact the 'The Mix which is a leading support service that can help young people to take on any challenge they are facing - from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs.
- Tel: 0808 0808 4994 (Freephone)
- Web: http://www.themix.org.uk/
For 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.
Web: https://youngminds.org.uk/
Local Support Services
Cruse Bereavement Support
Cruse is the leading national charity for bereaved people in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They offer support, advice and information to children, young people and adults when someone dies
Web: https://www.cruse.org.uk/
Herts Helps
Herts Helps will make sure you get the help you need by directing you to specialist support services who can give you confidential and anonymous advice.
Tel: 0300 123 4044
Web: HertsHelp
Self-care and National Support Services
National Support
Carers Trust
Carers Trust works to transform the lives of unpaid carers.
It partners with its network of local carer organisations to provide funding and support, deliver innovative and evidence-based programmes and raise awareness and influence policy. Carers Trust’s vision is that unpaid carers are heard and valued, with access to support, advice and resources to enable them to live fulfilled lives.
On the website you will find a search tab to look up any local support services in your local area
Website: Homepage - Carers Trust
NHS - Support and Benefits for Carers
Includes carer's assessments, support from local councils, respite care and help for young carers.
See if you can get support from your council, such as extra money or a break from caring.
How you can take a break from caring for someone else.
Financial support for people who care for others.
If you are aged 13-19 and you care for someone else there are people who can support you.
If you are 18 or under and you care for someone you are entitled to help and support.
Carers UK
Looking after someone can be tough, but you’re not on your own. Carers UK is here to listen, to give you expert information and advice that’s tailored to your situation, to champion your rights and support you in finding new ways to manage at home, at work, or wherever you are.
We give expert advice, information and support.
Caring can be extremely complicated. The maze of rights and entitlements can be complicated. Filling in paperwork can be complicated. Getting a break can be complicated. Our feelings about caring can certainly be complicated.
We're here to make sure that no matter how complicated your query or your experience, you don't have to care alone.
Our expert telephone advice and support service is here if you want to talk about caring. If you're looking for answers, our online information and support is the best place to start.
We connect carers so no-one has to care alone.
Every day 6,000 people become carers. It can be bewildering if you don't know where to turn for help and support.
Through our carers' groups and volunteers we're reaching out in local communities throughout the UK and online.
If you're new to caring, we want to make sure you get the right support from the start.
Website: Home - Carers UK
Local Support Services
Hertfordshire County Council
If you look after an adult who couldn’t manage without you, you're a carer. There's support for you too.
For advice and resources available please go to visit Hertfordshire County Council.
Self-care and National Support Services
National Support Services
Dementia Connect
Dementia Connect, Alzheimer's Society's dementia support service, is free, easy to access, and puts you in touch with the right support. From local help to phone and online advice.
Alzheimer’s Society’s dementia advisers can support you directly by phone or face to face, as well as connect you to a range of local services.
Web: Dementia Connect for healthcare professionals | Alzheimer's Society (alzheimers.org.uk)
The NHS
It's normal for your memory to be affected by stress, tiredness, certain illnesses and medicines. But if you're becoming increasingly forgetful, particularly if you're over the age of 65, it's a good idea to talk to a GP about the early signs of dementia. Memory loss can be annoying if it happens occasionally, but if it's affecting your daily life, or it's worrying you, or someone you know, you should get help from a GP.
Web: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/diagnosis/
The Alzheimer's Society
Alzheimer’s Society is the UK’s leading dementia charity. We campaign for change, fund research to find a cure and support people living with dementia today.
Web: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/
The dementia guide: Living well after your diagnosis
Caring for a person with dementia: A practical guide
Tel: Dementia Connect Support Line: 0333 150 3456
Other Key links
Dementia UK - Dementia Helpline (support from dementia specialist admiral nurses): 0800 888 6678
Tide - Together In Dementia Everyday: Telephone: 0151 237 2669 Email: carers@tidecarers.org.uk
Carers UK- Making life better for carers: Telephone: 0808 808 7777 Email: advice@carersuk.org
Self Care
We can’t change our age or our genes, and there is currently no way we can completely prevent dementia. However, there are some simple steps we can all take to help lower our risk.
Risk factors for cardiovascular disease (like high blood pressure and stroke) are also risk factors for dementia, so what is good for your heart is good for your brain. Looking after your health, cutting out smoking and being physically active on a regular basis will help lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. It’s likely you’ll be lowering your risk of dementia too, particularly vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
For good heart health:
- don’t smoke
- keep cholesterol and blood pressure under control
- be active and exercise regularly
- maintain a healthy weight
- eat a healthy balanced diet
- drink fewer than 14 units of alcohol per week.
Web: https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/dementia-information/reducing-the-risk/
Herbert Protocol
The Herbert Protocol is a national scheme that encourages carers, family and friends to provide and put together useful information, which can then be used in the event of a vulnerable person going missing.
Carers and / or relatives and friends can complete a form in advance, including important information about the missing individual such as the contact numbers, medication needed, locations the person was last seen and so forth also a photograph can be provided.
Click here for more information for residents in Bedfordshire
Local Support Services
Hertswise
Delivered by a partnership of nine local charities and social enterprises, Hertswise offers community dementia support to people of all ages throughout Hertfordshire, through a variety of different services.
For more information about our dementia support services, please call our first point of contact, Herts Help:
Tel: 0300 123 4044
Email: info@hertshelp.net
Text: 60060
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9am – 5pm
Wednesday, 9am – 7pm
Saturday – Sunday, 10am – 4pm.
Age UK Hertfordshire
Supporting older people by delivering services that help make later life a fulfilling and enjoyable experience
Web:https://www.ageuk.org.uk/hertfordshire
Age UK Hertfordshire
At Alzheimer's Society, we believe passionately that life doesn't end when dementia begins. We are here for anyone affected by dementia, and we do everything we can to keep people with dementia connected to their lives and the people who matter most.
Self-care and National Support Services
Act
NATIONAL SERVICES
Refuge
Providing advice and support for women and children, against domestic violence. If you are seeking immediate support, call the free Helpline. Messages sent through the website will be responded to within 48 hours, messages won’t leave any trace on emails and the helpline team won’t leave voicemails when calling back for safety reasons.
Domestic Abuse helpline Tel: 0808 2000 247 – Open 24 hours a day
Website: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Contact-us
Chatline: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Chat-to-us-online
Website: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Contact-us
Women's Aid
A national charity working to end domestic abuse against women and children. A federation of over 180 organisations providing just under 300 services across England. They provide online help and support to women and children suffering domestic abuses, help to access refuge accommodation, outreach services and Independent domestic violence advocacy (IDVA).
Tel: 0808 2000 247 – 24 hour Domestic Abuse helpline or call 01709 336009
Website: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/
Technology Safety - A Toolkit for Survivors
Resources on this website explore technology in the context of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and violence against women. To talk to someone who can answer your questions and support you, call the National Domestic Abuse helpline. Information includes:
- Safety tips, information, and privacy strategies for survivors on the use of technology
- Spyware and Stalkerware information
- Smartphones - Increasing privacy & responding to abuse
- Tips on being webwise when sharing personal information online
Website: https://www.techsafety.org/resources-survivors
The Men's Advice Line
Men’s Advice Line is a confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse and those supporting them. The service offers advice and emotional support to men who experience abuse, and signpost to other vital services that help keep them and their children safe. Your call will not appear on itemised bills.
Tel: 0808 801 0327 (run by Respect) Mon–Fri 9am-8pm
Email: info@mensadviceline.org.uk
Website: https://mensadviceline.org.uk/male-victims/
National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline
The helpline team has extensive experience in supporting LGBT+ people who are victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, hate crime, so-called conversion therapies, honour-based abuse, forced marriage, and other forms of abuse. Professionals can also contact this number for advice.
Tel: 0800 999 5428 (run by Galop) Mon to Fri 10am – 5pm, Weds and Thurs 10am – 8:00pm
Email: help@galop.org.uk
Website: https://galop.org.uk/get-help/helplines/
Rights of Women - Helping women through the law
Free telephone advice line providing women with legal advice and information on a wide range of legal issues including domestic violence, child contact, sexual violence and the criminal justice process and immigration and asylum as well as other legal issues arising from relationship breakdown.
Tel: 020 7251 8887 Tues 2pm – 4pm and 7pm – 9pm, Thurs 2pm – 4pm, Fri 10am – 12pm. The line is closed on Bank holidays.
Email: info@row.org.uk
Web: https://rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-advice/advice-lines/
National Helpline for men wanting to change
For men worried about their behaviours and relationships and who want to take steps to change. Providing perpetrator support and helping men to become safe around their partners and children.
Tel: 0808 8024040 Mon–Fri 9am-8pm
Website: www.respectphoneline.org.uk
Act
NATIONAL SERVICES
Refuge
Providing advice and support for women and children, against domestic violence. If you are seeking immediate support, call the free Helpline. Messages sent through the website will be responded to within 48 hours, messages won’t leave any trace on emails and the helpline team won’t leave voicemails when calling back for safety reasons.
Domestic Abuse helpline Tel: 0808 2000 247 – Open 24 hours a day
Website: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Contact-us
Chatline: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Chat-to-us-online
Website: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Contact-us
Women's Aid
A national charity working to end domestic abuse against women and children. A federation of over 180 organisations providing just under 300 services across England. They provide online help and support to women and children suffering domestic abuses, help to access refuge accommodation, outreach services and Independent domestic violence advocacy (IDVA).
Tel: 0808 2000 247 – 24 hour Domestic Abuse helpline or call 01709 336009
Website: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/
Technology Safety - A Toolkit for Survivors
Resources on this website explore technology in the context of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and violence against women. To talk to someone who can answer your questions and support you, call the National Domestic Abuse helpline. Information includes:
- Safety tips, information, and privacy strategies for survivors on the use of technology
- Spyware and Stalkerware information
- Smartphones - Increasing privacy & responding to abuse
- Tips on being webwise when sharing personal information online
Website: https://www.techsafety.org/resources-survivors
The Men's Advice Line
Men’s Advice Line is a confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse and those supporting them. The service offers advice and emotional support to men who experience abuse, and signpost to other vital services that help keep them and their children safe. Your call will not appear on itemised bills.
Tel: 0808 801 0327 (run by Respect) Mon–Fri 9am-8pm
Email: info@mensadviceline.org.uk
Website: https://mensadviceline.org.uk/male-victims/
National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline
The helpline team has extensive experience in supporting LGBT+ people who are victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, hate crime, so-called conversion therapies, honour-based abuse, forced marriage, and other forms of abuse. Professionals can also contact this number for advice.
Tel: 0800 999 5428 (run by Galop) Mon to Fri 10am – 5pm, Weds and Thurs 10am – 8:00pm
Email: help@galop.org.uk
Website: https://galop.org.uk/get-help/helplines/
Rights of Women - Helping women through the law
Free telephone advice line providing women with legal advice and information on a wide range of legal issues including domestic violence, child contact, sexual violence and the criminal justice process and immigration and asylum as well as other legal issues arising from relationship breakdown.
Tel: 020 7251 8887 Tues 2pm – 4pm and 7pm – 9pm, Thurs 2pm – 4pm, Fri 10am – 12pm. The line is closed on Bank holidays.
Email: info@row.org.uk
Web: https://rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-advice/advice-lines/
National Helpline for men wanting to change
For men worried about their behaviours and relationships and who want to take steps to change. Providing perpetrator support and helping men to become safe around their partners and children.
Tel: 0808 8024040 Mon–Fri 9am-8pm
Website: www.respectphoneline.org.uk
Local Support Services
Hertfordshire Domestic Abuse Hotline
Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline is a confidential, free, support and signposting service for those affected by domestic abuse.
Lines are open Mon-Fri 9am - 9pm and Sat-Sun 9am-4pm.
Tel: 08 088 088 088
Web: https://www.hertsdomesticabusehelpline.org/
Herts Sunflower with Hertfordshire County Council
Web: https://www.hertssunflower.org/Herts-Sunflower.aspx
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
There is a wealth of information and ways to prevent falls on the following websites
- Saga - Discover ways to stay fit at https://www.saga.co.uk/magazine/health-wellbeing/wellbeing/falls-guide
- Age Uk - Information on falls prevention, exercise classes and handyman services in some areas. Call free on 0800 169 6565 or see https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/fitness/falls-prevention/
- The effective assessment of an individual’s risk of a fall would be a multifactorial intervention considering falls history, visual impairment etc. This assessment would enable the referral of an individual to effective interventions targeted at specific risk factors
- Your GP may carry out some simple tests to check your balance. They can also review any medicines you're taking, in case their side effects may increase your risk of falling. Your GP may also recommend:
- having a sight test if you're having problems with your vision, even if you already wear glasses
- having an electrocardiogram (ECG) and checking your blood pressure while lying and standing
- requesting a home hazard assessment, where a healthcare professional visits your home to identify potential hazards and offer
- advice doing exercises to improve your strength and balance (try some exercises for older people)
- NHS Choices - Find this leaflet and other resources at https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/keep-your-bones-strong-over-65/
Local Support Services
Hertfordshire County Council
Hertfordshire County Council can help with information on resources to help reduce falls and support in the event of a fall.
Self-care and National Support Services
- Problem gambling is often described as a hidden addiction and some people may have gone to great lengths to hide this. Where the person has highlighted that problem gambling may be affecting them and/or the people around them.
Give reassurances that there are lots of sources of support
BeGambleAware
The BeGambleAware website has a short series of questions you can complete if you are concerned about your own or someone else's gambling. This has direct link to help, support and advice about problem gambling. The National Gambling Helpline can be contact on 0808 8020 133
Web: https://www.begambleaware.org/gambling-problems/do-i-have-a-gambling-problem/
The National Gambling Helpline
Tel: 0808 8020 133
The Helpline provides confidential advice, information and emotional support throughout Great Britain to anyone experiencing problems with gambling. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
GamCare Forum:
This is an online message board, providing a safe and secure space for users (who may be gamblers or their partners, friends and family) to share experiences, thoughts and feelings about problem gambling. Although the Forum is moderated by the GamCare Team, it is designed first and foremost for people to come together in similar situations, working through similar concerns and problems.
Website: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/forum/
The GamCare Group Chatroom:
GamCare run regular sessions in their online chatroom, where users can use live text chat to talk about issues related to gambling harms with other people in similar situations, supported by one of our Adviser.
Their Chatroom is a safe and supportive environment. Some sessions might be fairly busy and intense; others will be quieter and more relaxed. Each session is moderated by one of our Advisers, who will welcome you to the chat and be on hand to guide everyone or answer questions if needed.
Website: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/group-chatroom/
GamCare Treatment Services:
GamCare provides local services for people concerned about their own gambling and for people affected by someone else’s gambling.
People can refer themselves or be referred by another professional. Following assessment they provide individually tailored support through 1-1 sessions and groups or courses. They work holistically to enhance opportunities for people to make changes in their own gambling. We support affected others by providing a safe space for them to recognise and increase their coping skills.
Website: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/find-local-treatment/
Gamblers Anonymous
Runs local support groups for people with gambling addictions and advocates the same 12-step approach to recovery as Alcoholics Anonymous. Gamblers Anonymous also offers help and support via their website, including a forum, chat room and literature. Anyone who is seeking help for gambling addiction is able to attend meetings.
Web: https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/
Gam-Anon
Is an organisation dedicated to supporting the husbands, wives, partners, relatives or close friends of someone with a gambling problem who have also been affected by the problem. Like Gamblers Anonymous, meetings are held throughout the country, with online support also available.
Tel: 08700 50 88 80
Support for young people:
BigDeal is a place for young people to get information, advice and guidance about gambling. They also also help parents and professionals such as teachers, social workers and youth workers. They know all about gambling, how someone else’s gambling can affect you, and about the difficulties young people can get into if their gambling gets out of hand. That’s why you can share your worries via their live chat or helpline, without fear of judgement.
Web: https://www.bigdeal.org.uk
Where the person has indicated that problem gambling may be affecting their physical and mental health and wellbeing. (This could include anxiety/depression, low mood, stress, use of alcohol as a coping mechanism etc)
- Encourage the person to contact their GP. Their GP will be able support the person in many ways whilst they seek help for any associated gambling problems.
- MECC Link has dedicated content for a range of national and local support services for Mental and Physical Health.
- Alcohol: https://www.mecclink.co.uk/east-of-england/alcohol/
- Mental wellbeing: https://www.mecclink.co.uk/east-of-england/mental-wellbeing/
- Social isolation and loneliness: https://www.mecclink.co.uk/east-of-england/social-isolation-and-loneliness/
- If you believe the person is highly destressed or in crisis, consider offering details for Samaritans as a safe place to talk any time they like.
- Samaritans - (All age groups)
- Tel: 116 123, open 24 hours a day.
Where the person has indicated debt or financial concerns as an additional factor
Debt advice - Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice offers free, independent, confidential and impartial debt advice through their web chat service.
Tel: 0300 330 1313
Web: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money
Debt advice - Step Change Charity
StepChange Debt Remedy provides expert advice, budget support and solutions to help someone manage their debts.
Tel: 0800 138 1111, Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-4pm
Web: http://www.stepchange.org
Where the personal has indicated that they would like more information on self-exclusion from bookmakers or online gambling sites.
National self-exclusion schemes
New multi-operator schemes are being introduced across the five main sectors of the gambling industry to allow you to exclude yourself from each of those forms of gambling across the whole of Great Britain.
Web: http://optintoselfexclude.info/
Individual gambling sectors self-exclusion schemes
(Bookmakers, Casinos’, Bingo venues and Arcades also offer exclusion schemed for more information click the link below:
Web: https://www.begambleaware.org/stay-in-control/how-to-self-exclude/
Online sector self-exclusion and blocking software
If you want to self-exclude from an online (remote) gambling company then you will need to contact each of the companies with which you hold an account. This can usually be done on the responsible gambling pages of the website. You can also get email addresses and telephone numbers for online gambling companies that are part of the Remote Gambling Association here
If you are worried about online gambling then you can download a 'site blocker', which can block access to on line gambling sites. You can find further information on blocking software here
Local Support Services
Hertfordshire County Council
Find reliable information and advice from Adult Care Services, our Money Advice Unit and other trusted sources on a range of subjects including:
Care costs
Benefits
Contact points if you need to talk to someone.
Money advice | Hertfordshire County Council
Gamblers Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others do the same.
This site offers various aids for the compulsive gambler including a forum, a chat room, literature and most importantly a meeting finder.
Meetings are the core of Gamblers Anonymous and we have meetings every day of the week throughout England, Wales and Ulster.
With the easing of restrictions, Groups across the country are beginning to resume their physical meetings in line with the government’s guidelines. Many online meetings are still taking place. A list of online meetings can be found here. If you have any questions, please use the relevant phone number on the contact us page contact.
Web: Gamblers Anonymous
Email: info@gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Tel: 0330 094 0322
GamCare
GamCare provides advice, practical help, support and counselling in addressing the social impact of gambling. Please see the website for more information.
GamCare provides live, confidential, one-to-one information, advice and emotional support, plus we can signpost to further sources of specialist help, including our face to face, online and telephone treatment services across England, Scotland and Wales.
The Helpline (phone and live chat) services are available 24 hours a day. Advisers are specifically trained and can discuss what options are available, and they can offer coping strategies to those who want to change their gambling behaviour as well as support for others who are impacted by gambling.
Email:info@gamcare.org.uk
0808 8020 133
Self-care and National Support Services
Local Support Services
Hertfordshire Health Improvement Service
Health Checks through Hertfordshire Health Improvement Services have resumed and will be running in various locations around Hertfordshire.
The check is for people who are aged 40 to 74 who have not had a health check in the last 5 years and do not have any of the following pre-existing conditions:
heart disease
chronic kidney disease
diabetes
high blood pressure (hypertension)
atrial fibrillation
transient ischaemic attack
inherited high cholesterol (familial hypercholesterolemia)
heart failure
peripheral arterial disease
stroke
currently being prescribed statins to lower cholesterol
previous checks have found that you have a 20% or higher risk of getting cardiovascular disease over the next 10 years
You should have regular check-ups if you have one of these conditions. Your care team will be able to give you more information about this.
Register for a NHS Health Check with HHIS
GPMany GP's have now resumed offering NHS Health Checks. If you have not received an invitation to make an appointment, please contact your registered GP to see if they can book you in for a Health Check
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
- The Public Health England 'One You' Website contains a wealth of information on different food choices and healthy recipes
- Visit the healthy eating page on the 'Change for Life' website which has loads of great information about food and drink swaps for a healthier diet.
- Try the new 'Be Food Smart app'! See how much sugar, sat fat and salt is really inside your food and drink - just by scanning the barcode from your mobile phone, Android and Iphone Apps available.
- Visit the recipes page on 'Change for Life' has a extensive list of recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and lunchboxes!
- NHS Choices has a useful list of tips on how to add your 5 a day into your daily meals
Local Support Services
Hertfordshire County Council
For resources and advice please visit Hertfordshire County Council
Hertfordshire Health Walks
All our walks are inclusive and welcoming to all. We encourage everyone to be courteous and tolerant. Please familiarise yourself with our Code of Conduct. And what is expected.
Web: Hertfordshire Health Walks | Hertfordshire County Council
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
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 using the hotline (0300 500 0914) or online at Street Link.
This service aims to connect rough sleepers with appropriate services, both statutory and voluntary. Local resources for rough sleepers vary greatly across the country. They can include day centres, contact and assessment teams, soup kitchens and soup runs. Details of such resources can often be obtained by contacting local authorities.
Street assessment teams give rough sleepers information about available health care, night shelters and hostels, and other resources for homeless people. Some hostels and night shelters will only take referrals from a contact and assessment team worker. Some outreach teams will work with people on a long-term basis.
Information on over 9,000 services - hostels, day centres and other advice and support services for homeless people and those at risk of homelessness can be found at Homeless Link
Not sure which local authority area to choose? If you know a postcode you can check which local authority area here.
Local Support Services
Helping Herts Homeless
Helping Herts Homeless acts as a hostel and a hub.
Our charity is run by volunteers, providing temporary accommodation in our hostel, and a hub supporting other organisations aiming to alleviate homelessness and rough sleeping.
Web: helpinghertshomeless.org.uk
District & Borough Councils
Broxbourne - Housing – Borough of Broxbourne Council
Dacorum - Homeless or at risk (dacorum.gov.uk)
East Herts - Homeless or threatened with homelessness | East Herts District Council
Hertsmere - Housing Advice and Homelessness - Hertsmere Borough Council
North Herts - Homelessness | North Herts Council (north-herts.gov.uk)
St Albans & District - Homeless or threatened with homelessness | St Albans City and District Council
Stevenage - Homelessness and Housing Advice (stevenage.gov.uk)
Three Rivers - Homelessness | Three Rivers District Council
Watford - Homelessness – www.watford.gov.uk
Welwyn Hatfield - Homelessness – Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council (welhat.gov.uk)
Self-care and National Support Services
Give reassurances that there are lots of sources of support
If you are worried that this person is in crisis, please see section for Suicide Prevention
If no immediate risk take the following steps:
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
SELF CARE
- Encourage the person to contact their GP. Their GP will be able support the person in many ways
- Mind 'The charity for better mental health' has an extensive range of self help resources available
- The NHS have has a range of self-help tools available
- Andy's Man Club provides a weekly talking group, a place for men to come together in a safe environment to talk about issues/problems they be have faced or currently been facing. Meetings take place regularly in different locations across the region, where applicable these can be found in the local support and contact details section.
- 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. They talk through any issue with you and offer support, advice and signposting.
- Quell - Free, safe and anonymous mental wellbeing support for adults across the UK
- Kooth - is your online mental wellbeing community. Access free, safe and anonymous support, for 11-25 year olds
Every Mind Matters
‘Every Mind Matters’ is the first national mental health campaign from Public Health England
- It’s an NHS-approved digital hub full of expert advice and practical tips to achieve good mental health
- It also has a free NHS-approved online tool - ‘Your Mind Plan’ to help us:
- deal with stress
- boost our mood
- improve our sleep
- feel more in control.
Search online for 'Every Mind Matters'
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
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.
Support Services - 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.
Tel: 0800 138 1619
Web: https://www.combatstress.org.uk/help-you
Support Services - Perinatal
PANDAS Foundation
The PANDAS Foundation is here to help support and advise any parent who is experiencing a perinatal mental illness. We are also here to inform and guide family members, carers, friends and employers as to how they can support someone who is suffering.
Tel: 0808 1961 776 (open 7 days a week, 11am - 10pm)
Web: http://www.pandasfoundation.org.uk/
Support Services - Carers
The Carers Trust
It is important that you take care of your own health, even if you are busy looking after someone else's health. Being healthy is not only important for you, but it also helps the person you care after too. The website contains some helpful guides on relationship management and information on self-care and respite care.
Support Services - Children and Young People
Children and Young People can contact the 'The Mix which is a leading support service that can help young people to take on any challenge they are facing - from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs.
- Tel: 0808 0808 4994 (Freephone)
- Web: http://www.themix.org.uk/
For 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.
Web: https://youngminds.org.uk/
Talk about the Five Ways to Wellbeing. The mental health equivalent to the dietary advice to have ‘5 a day’ fruit and vegetables for physical health.
1. Connect - With the people around you. With family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. At home, work, school or in your local community.
- As being well connected is good for your mental wellbeing… Is there anything you could be doing more of?
- Can you think of connections that you would like to make or remake?
2. Be Active - Go for a walk or run. Step outside. Cycle. Play a game. Garden. Dance. Exercising makes you feel good. Most importantly, discover a physical activity that you enjoy; one that suits your level of mobility and fitness.
- What activities do you engage in on a regular basis? How would I like to develop this?
- Are there any minor adjustments you can make in your life that can help you to be more active?
3. Take Notice - Be curious. Catch sight of the beautiful. Remark on the unusual. Notice the changing seasons. Savour the moment, whether you are on a train, eating lunch or talking to friends.
- How can you practice slowing down and pausing more often?
- What difference will incorporating this into your daily life make?
4. Keep Learning - Try something new. Rediscover an old interest. Sign up for that course. Take on a different responsibility at work. Fix a bike. Learn to play an instrument or how to cook your favourite food. Set a challenge you will enjoy achieving.
- What would you like to learn about? What interests you? What do you value? What would you find useful?
- What do you need to do to make learning something you look forward to?
5. Give - Do something nice for a friend, or a stranger. Thank someone. Smile. Volunteer your time. Join a community group. Look out, as well as in.
- Do you notice what it’s like for you when you give to others?
- What else could you give others that you hadn’t thought of before?
Local Support Services
For urgent help 24 hours a day:
- If someone's at risk of harm, call 999 or visit your nearest A&E.
- HPFT for support in a mental health crisis.
- Samaritans if you need someone non-judgemental to talk to.
NHS Wellbeing Service
Psychological help and practical support for people with mental health problems like anxiety, low mood, insomnia, stress or pregnancy-related issues.
Healthy Hubs
Visit your local Healthy Hub for free support to help you stay healthy and well.
Herts Mind Network
Services include peer support, group activities, counselling and a crisis helpline. Provided online, over the phone or from their countywide wellbeing centres.
Mind in Mid-Herts
Services include social and exercise groups, courses and workshops, psychological therapies, LGBTQ+ and carers groups, one-to-one calls and vocational support. Full list of services and areas covered on their website.
Mind in Hertfordshire
Providing mental health support across Hertfordshire
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
- If you don't do anything, do something. if exercise didn’t involve a whole lot of self-motivation and actual physical activity, but instead came in a pill, it would be hailed immediately as “a wonder drug” such are the health benefits involved.
- The Better Health campaign provides a range of resources and tips to support adults to move more Get active - Better Health - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
- 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. For those who don’t wish to run, jog or walk there is always the opportunity to volunteer to support your local Parkrun. There is probably a Parkrun local to you…visit http://www.parkrun.org.uk/ for more information.
Local Support Services
Free Activities
- Parkrun events – 5km and 2km runs across Hertfordshire, every Saturday morning.
- ParksHerts – interactive maps, walking, running and activity routes in over 140 parks and open spaces in Hertfordshire.
- Hertfordshire Health Walks – guided group walks across the county.
Find your local Healthy Hub for free local information, advice and support to help you stay healthy and well. They're available across Hertfordshire.
Older Adults Aging Healthy
- Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire – learning events covering topics such as how to reduce risk of falls, frailty and dementia. You can also sign up to their free newsletter and be notified of upcoming events in Hertfordshire.
- Strength & Balance classes in Hertfordshire – for people wanting to improve their strength and balance while learning some new exercises to help maintain independence.
Children & Teenagers - getting active early
Some fun, free and friendly starters:
- HAPpy Activity Camps is a holiday provision for school aged children from reception to year 11 who are in receipt of benefits-related free school meals.
- NHS better health, healthier families - food facts, recipes and activities.
- Walking buses is a safe and fun way to encourage children to walk to school together.
- The Daily Mile is simple, free and gets children out of the classroom for 15 minutes every day to run or jog at their own pace with their classmates. 75% of Hertfordshire primary schools are signed up – check if your school is one of them.
- BeeZee Families are a dedicated team of nutritionists and behaviour change experts, who can help you make real, long-lasting changes towards a healthier lifestyle, running weight management and healthy lifestyles programmes for adults and families across the UK.
- Healthy Hub Stevenage for young people provides support and advice for mental, emotional, physical or lifestyle related needs, including an active lifestyles programme of assault courses, boot camps and circuit training sessions.
- Junior Parkrun is a free, fun, and friendly weekly 2k event for 4 to 14 year olds, taking place every Sunday from 9am, across Hertfordshire.
During pregnancy & After childbirth
- Exercising in pregnancy (NHS.UK) - which exercises you can do and which to avoid.
- Hertfordshire Family Centre Services offer many free activities and services to be healthy, grow and develop, including support for pregnant women to help your baby get the best start in life.
Self-care and National Support Services
Provide the details in the Self-Care section below and offer support to help navigate and access the local services – most services have moved to initial contact via phone due to the pandemic, with some elements accessed online (see specific area for contact details/ websites).
Self-Care
- For information about sexual health, STIs, HIV and contraception visit https://www.sexwise.org.uk/ or https://www.startswithme.org.uk/ or https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/
- 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.
This website https://www.contraceptionchoices.org/ 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.
Local Support Services
Health in Herts - Sexual Health
For information on resources available across Hertfordshire, including an interactive map to point you in the direction of your closest services please visit Health in Herts
Web: Sexual health | Hertfordshire County Council
Sexual Health Hertfordshire
If you have any symptoms or concerns please contact Sexual Health Hertfordshire for an appointment.
Tel: 0300 008 5522
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
Local Support Services
Hertfordshire Stop Smoking Service
How we can support you
Our advisors will provide you with tailored support for 12 weeks. During this time you will have regular 1-1 sessions with your advisor who will be able to answer any questions you have, provide advice on how to stay smoke free, give guidance on how best to use your vape and ways in which you can take control of cravings.
- Weekly support for up to 12 weeks, either face-to-face or over the phone
- Creating a plan with you to help you quit.
- Motivation to support you through the challenging times and help you combat cravings.
- Regular carbon monoxide breath testing to show you how your progress has benefitted your health.
This service is free, but you may have to pay for any prescriptions you might need (Nicotine Replacement Therapy or 'NRT' counts as a prescription product). We can advise you on how to save money with a prescription pre-payment certificate.
If you are currently pregnant, have a diagnosed mental health condition, are an acute trust inpatient or are about to have an elective procedure, please contact the hospital responsible for your care or Hertfordshire Health Improvement Service to find out more about what stop smoking services are available to you
Tel: 0800 389 3998
Text: SMOKEFREE to 80818
Web:Stop Smoking Service | Hertfordshire County Council
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
Although most people need some kind of social contact to maintain good mental health, everyone has different social needs. The person may be someone who is content with a few close friends, or they may need a large group of varied acquaintances to feel satisfied.
State that the simplest way to ease feelings of loneliness can be to try to meet more, or different, people.
- Can they think of anything they are interested in, a class or a group they have heard of, that could help connect them with new people? See Useful contacts for ideas of how to find groups. The Red Cross Connecting Communities team can help you connect with your local community and meet new friends.
- Volunteering is a good way of meeting people. Helping others can also really help improve mental health. See Mind's Useful contacts - Mind for organisations that can help someone find local volunteering opportunities.
- Join an online community. See Mind's Useful contacts - Mind for some suggestions.
The Coronavirus (Covid-19) and Loneliness, What can you do to support people in your local community?
It is particularly important for people who
- are 70 or over
- have a long-term condition
- are pregnant
- have a weakened immune system
People in these groups have been asked to apply social distancing, you can support people who are doing this by asking if you could:
Help your neighbours - #viralkindness contact card
Facebook groups
Covid Mutual Aid UK is a group of volunteers supporting local community groups organising mutual aid
Website: https://covidmutualaid.org/
Loneliness in Older People
- 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. Call 0800 470 8090. The Silver Line can also put you in contact with community activities in your local area
- Age UK has a befriending service to support loneliness in later life, this is where a volunteer visits an older person once a week in their own home. There is also telephone befriending Telephone befriending, where a volunteer befriender will phone an older person.
- https://www.reengage.org.uk/ Re-engage works with people aged 75 and over who live alone; those who are especially vulnerable to loneliness. Call our freephone number 0800 716 543 Email info@reengage.org.uk
- NHS Choices has a range of advice on Loneliness including volunteering, continuing education and how to engage with social media and computers.
Loneliness in Younger People
- It is recognised that loneliness is not something that is exclusive to older adult, indeed many younger adults in particular can experience loneliness and a recent report from the Office for National Statistics highlighted Britain as the loneliness capital of Europe.
- Whilst on the outside young people can be very well connected on social media, if this replaces face-to-face contact then it can add to a feeling of loneliness. Some people also present an idealised version of themselves online and we expect to have social lives like those portrayed in the media.
- Helplines can reduce loneliness, at least in the short term
- The Samaritans are available around the clock, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This number is FREE to call on 116 123
- Young Minds offers advice for young people to help them look after their mental health. They also have a free 24/7 textline service. YoungMinds | Mental Health Charity For Children And Young People | YoungMinds
- There are also support services on websites such as Mind's that can remind you you're not alone.
- It doesn’t really matter who you talk to first. Some ideas would include: a friend, family member, anonymous listening service like Nightline or the Samaritans, student union welfare rep, personal tutor, students support services staff member, counsellor, or doctor. Decide who is the best person for you to talk to first. Be realistic about what each person can offer. If it doesn’t work out, try someone else. Talk to more than one person.
Local Support Services
Herts Help
Contact Herts Help, an independent advice service that can help you find the right club or group for you.
Get out & About
- Visit Herts
Discover exciting attractions for all ages and interests on the county's official tourism website. - Age UK Hertfordshire
A calendar of weekly activities and special events run by Age UK. - Volunteering
A great way to meet new people.
Socialise at Home
- Age UK - Befriending Service
Talk to a befriending volunteer in your home or over the phone. Age UK try to match people with similar interests. - Age UK - In Touch
If you're worried about burdening friends and family, call this emotional support line to talk about whatever is weighing on you. - Social apps
For your smartphone or tablet.
Self-care and National Support Services
Do you think the person would benefit from some further support to reduce their drinking and / or drug taking to lower risk levels? You can make the following recommendations:
- Suggest they speak to their GP or a loved one
- Pass on details of national organisations, such as those listed below:
National Support
ALCOHOL
Drinkline
Drinkline provides free, confidential, accurate and consistent information and advice to callers who are concerned about their own or someone else's drinking.
Tel: 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am-8pm, weekends 11am-4pm)
Drink Free Days app - If the person has a smartphone they can download the Better Health Drink Free Days app designed to make it easy to keep an eye on alcohol consumption and take control with daily tips and feedback. Drink less - Better Health - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Alcoholics Anonymous
Call the free helpline 0800 9177 650
Email help@aamail.org or use the live chat function on their website
Website: Alcoholics Anonymous Great Britain (alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk)
DRUGS
Narcotics Anonymous
A non-profit fellowship or society of men and women for whom drugs had become a problem. They are recovering addicts who meet regularly to help each other stay clean. This is a program of complete abstinence from all drugs. There is only ONE requirement for membership, the desire to stop using.
Helpline: 0300 999 1212 (10am - midnight)
Email: pi@ukna.org
Website: Welcome to UKNA | UKNA | Narcotics Anonymous in the United Kingdom
Local Support Services
CGL Spectrum
Offers clinical interventions, as well as psychological and social support for any age. Treatments are tailored to your needs by a range of professionals, under one roof. They also offer an alcohol telecoms service for help via phone or video call.
Web: Spectrum Drug & Alcohol Recovery Services | Change Grow Live
The Living Room
Offers intensive, daily support for alcohol and any other addictions for any age. Treatments are abstinence-based and follow a structured programme based on the 12-step process, including peer support.
Tel: 0300 365 0304
Web: The Living Room (livingroomherts.org)
Self Help Support
These services can help you spot the signs of dependency, understand the physical and mental impacts, and provide useful ways to cut down.
- NHS alcohol advice and addiction support.
- DrinkAware app and website can help you track your units, set goals and understand the impacts.
- CGL alcohol and drugs quiz provides advice on what to do next.
- Talk to Frank has all of the information you need about drug use and its effects. Get in contact online, by phone or text.
- Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and Cocaine Anonymous provide free confidential online support.
- Breaking Free: an online recovery support programme available 24/7.
- Drymester.org.uk helps parents-to-be go alcohol-free with information and resources for parents, professionals, family and friends.
Self-care and National Support Services
If you’re worried that someone is at immediate risk of taking their own life then phone 999, you should stay with that person until help arrives. Do not put your own safety at risk by getting physically involved.
If no immediate risk take the following steps:
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: 07860 039967
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
Open 9am - midnight every day
Other options include:
- contact their GP for an emergency appointment or call the out of hours service.
- call their Mental Health worker, if they have one.
- call their social worker or key worker, if they have one
- encourage to re-engage with mental health services if already engaged
- go through their Safety Plan with them
If they don’t want help, don’t push them. Sometimes it’s easy to want to try and fix a person’s problems, or give them advice but try and at least leave a couple of key telephone numbers with them for Samaritans any local support numbers for their area (Crisis teams etc).
It’s usually better for people to make their own decisions. Help them think of all the options, but leave the choice to them.
A person may not be suicidal but you may still be concerned
Encourage them to contact their GP, they will be familiar with their medical history and will be able to direct them appropriately which may include a referral to IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). IAPT teams are skilled in helping people 18 years old and older overcome emotional and mental difficulties like:
• Depression.
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Sleep problems
• Confidence and self-esteem problems
All the local IAPT services are listed under the 'Mental Health' section of MECC Link and can be found within the 'local support and contact details' section.
SELF CARE
- Hub of Hope - Postcode based directory of services
- Mind 'The charity for better mental health' has an extensive range of self help resources available
- The NHS has has a range of self-help tools available
- Andy's Man Club provides weekly groups, a place for men to come together in a safe environment to talk about issues/problems they have faced or are currently facing. There's a search function to find your nearest group.
Local Support Services
Suicide Prevention Herts
The Suicide Prevention Network involves more than 20 organisations. Our vision is to make Hertfordshire a county where no-one ever gets to a point where they feel suicide is their only option.
Web: Suicide prevention resources and services (suicidepreventionherts.org.uk)
Samaritans
Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. We're here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Tel: 116 123
Web: Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen
Nightlight Crisis Support
Our countywide crisis services provide a warm welcome to our callers and visitors.
We offer emotional support, advice and information if you are feeling distressed and are in crisis.
Our Nightlight Crisis Helpline team is here for you from 7pm to 1am, every day of the year.
Our Nightlight Crisis Cafes* at Watford and Stevenage are open from 7pm to 1am every evening, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Our Crisis Cafe in Ware is open 7pm to 1am on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Our Nightlight Crisis House (crisis beds)* is in Hemel Hempstead and has four bed spaces that can be used if an overnight stay would help you to resolve your crisis. The beds are available (depending on capacity) seven days a week, 365 days a year.
* Please note that face to face visits and overnight stays are currently operating by appointment only, and accessed through the helpline, from 7pm. For referrals and voicemails left outside of operational hours please see further information on our Crisis Helpline page.
If you want to speak to us on the phone, or if you would like to come in and see us, simply give us a call on any day of the week at any time between 7pm and 1am on 01923 256391
To contact the team directly with any queries please email nightlight@hertfordshiremind.org
Emails are checked by staff at the beginning of each and every shift.