Simple Signposting to Better Health and Wellbeing

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.

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

Age UK Milton Keynes - Warmer Homes Project 

Age UK Milton Keynes has been working with energy suppliers to save money for older people and to ensure your home is insulated and energy efficient.

If you or someone you know is over 50, lives in Bedfordshire or Luton, and would benefit from this opportunity then please contact us via contact details below

Website: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/miltonkeynes/

Telephone: 01908550700

Email: info@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk

 

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

 

Energy - NEF Warmth and Wellbeing Helpline

Milton Keynes City Council has commissioned the NEF Warmth and Wellbeing Helpline. This service offers advice to people struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. Local people can call National Energy Foundation’s Better Housing Better Health team, who will explain how to get better energy deals, and how to apply for insulation and energy efficiency grants. Call freephone 0800 107 0044 Monday to Friday from 9am – 5pm.

 

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

 

Wolverton Community Energy

Looking at improving the energy efficiency of your home? Home Energy MK provides advice and support to homeowners across Milton Keynes who are interested in improving their homes to cut energy bills. The project is a joint venture between Wolverton Community Energy, Milton Keynes City Council, and the National Energy Foundation. Find out more via the Home Energy MK webpage.

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

NEXUS MK

Stop smoking services, NHS Health Checks, Bowel cancer screening, access to Mental Health practitioner.

Available at the following practices in Milton Keynes:

Oakridge Park Medical Centre

Address: 30 Texel Close, Oakridge Park, Milton Keynes MK14 6GL

Telephone: 01908 221180 

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

 

Purbeck Health centre

Address: Purbeck, Stantonbury, Milton Keynes MK14 6BL

Telephone: 01908 318989

Website: https://www.purbeckhealthcentre.co.uk/

 

Sovereign Medical Centre

Address: 2 Sovereign Drive, Pennyland, Milton Keynes MK15 8AJ

Telephone: 01908 209420

Website: http://www.sovereignmedicalcentre.co.uk/

 

Neath Hill Health Centre

Address: 1 Tower Cres, Neath Hill, Milton Keynes MK14 6JY

Telephone: 01908 200529

Website: https://www.neathhillhealthcentre.co.uk/

 

The Stonedean Practice

Address: Market Square, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes MK11 1YA

Telephone: 01908 261155

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

 

Wolverton Health Centre

Address: Gloucester Rd, Wolverton, Milton Keynes MK12 5DY

Telephone: 01908 222954

Website: https://www.wolvertonhealthcentre.co.uk/

 

Milton Keynes Young People's Drug and Alcohol Services

• Work with anyone up to the age of 18, but will work with people up to the age of 25 if they have additional needs.
• Offer advice and support for anyone who would like to learn more about drugs and alcohol, whether they use substances or not.
• Support people who want to reduce or stop their substance use, we meet where they feel comfortable, work at their own pace and help them create achievable goals.
• Support anyone who is, or has been affected by someone else`s drug or alcohol use.
• Provide drug and alcohol awareness sessions to professionals, schools, individuals, and groups.
• Work closely with other professionals so that we can offer and provide the best treatment options for young people.

Community Referral Process

Telephone: 0300123 6600

Text: 82111

Key Links 

• Milton Keynes – Addiction Recovery Community Milton Keynes (ARC-MK) Overview - Addiction Recovery Community (Arc) Milton Keynes - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
• Milton Keynes - Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Team Drugs, alcohol and young people | Milton Keynes Council (Milton-keynes.gov.uk)
• Young peoples drug & alcohol service email: YPDS@milton-Keynes.gov.uk
• Adult drug & alcohol service email: cnwl.arc-mk@nhs.net

• SMART services in MK: supportservices@smartcjs.org.uk
• Narcotics Anonymous (N.A.) services in Milton Keynes: resource@ukna.org
• Alcoholic Anonymous (AA) services in Milton Keynes: help@aamail.org
• Al-anon family support service: helpline@alk-anonuk.org.uk
• Talk to Frank: frank@talktofrank.com 

 

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

Cost of living

Financial Inclusion

Mental Health Support Text Messaging Service

If you live in Wiltshire and need somebody to talk to about your mental health.

Text WILTS to 85258 for free and confidential text message support that won’t appear on your bill.

Trained volunteers are here to listen. We can help with anxiety and stress, depression or sadness, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, panic attacks, loneliness or isolation, abuse and bullying.

Concerned about the rising cost of living?

These organisations and websites may be able to help:

Interactive Community Directory - Wiltshire Council.

Age UK Wiltshire - www.ageuk.org.uk/wiltshire 0808 196 2424

A local charity working in the community to support older people, their families and carers.

Benefits calculators - www.gov.uk/benefits-calculators

Lists the independent benefits calculators available to find out what benefits you could get and how to claim.

Citizens Advice - www.citizensadvice.org.uk 0800 144 8848

Provides advice about budgeting and the extra help you can receive if you’re struggling with the cost of living.

Community fridges - www.hubbub.org.uk/the-community-fridge  

A space where everyone can share surplus food. Hubbub coordinates the world’s largest Community Fridge Network.

Food banks - www.trusselltrust.org/get-help/find-a-foodbank

Community organisations aimed at supporting people who cannot afford the essentials in life. The Trussell Trust supports a nationwide network of food banks that provide emergency food and support.  Ask library staff for a full list of Wiltshire food banks.

FUEL - www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure/fuel-programme

A project that offers children that receive benefits related free school meals the opportunity to take part in fun activities and receive a meal during school holidays.

Help for Households - helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk  

Discover what cost of living support you could be eligible for.

Jobcentre Plus - www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus                                             

If you’re seeking work, you may be able to get six months of broadband through your local Jobcentre Plus.

0800 169 0190

Money Helper - www.moneyhelper.org.uk

0800 138 7777 

A government-approved advice service providing money guidance.

Ofcom – www.ofcom.org.uk/social-tariffs

Lists the cheaper broadband and phone packages (social tariffs) available.

Warm and Safe Wiltshire - www.warmandsafewiltshire.org.uk

Offers Wiltshire residents free and impartial energy saving advice via an advice line - 0800 038 5722. Provides help relating to insulation, heating and draft proofing and advice on available grants and schemes.

Wiltshire Council - www.wiltshire.gov.uk/worried-about-money

Provides information about benefits and the support available.                          

 0300 456 0100

Wiltshire Family & Community Learning - workwiltshire.co.uk     

Offers a range of courses, including ones on balancing budgets, saving energy and shopping for less.

01225 770478

Wiltshire Libraries - www.wiltshire.gov.uk/libraries

Libraries provide warm spaces with free access to books, newspapers, Wi-Fi and computers, plus printing for a small charge, and staff that can help to answer any queries you may have.

Wiltshire Money – wiltshiremoney.org.uk/wiltshire-resources

Lists schemes that provide cost of living support (compiled by Wiltshire Citizens Advice).

 

The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust

The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust provides a home security service and online safety service for over 60s, 18+ with a registered disability and victims of domestic abuse throughout Wiltshire and Swindon. The charity funds the operation of three Bobby vans that provide mobile workshops for Bobby operators to secure homes whilst the team of Stay Safe Online Volunteers offer one to one home visits and community talks on online safety.

The Trust strives to help people in Wiltshire and Swindon by:

• Improving security of domestic premises occupied by the elderly and vulnerable to prevent burglary, hate crime and domestic abuse;
• Reducing incidence of repeat burglary and re-victimisation;
• Promoting awareness of fire safety, detection and prevention;
• Offering reassurance and advice on crime reduction, and sign-posting other agencies that may be of assistance to clients’ particular needs; and,
• Providing practical skills and advice to help prevent online fraud.

Contact BobbyVan@wiltshire.police.uk

01225 256867

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.

Carer's asssessments

Local Support Services

Cost of living

Financial Inclusion

Mental Health Support Text Messaging Service

If you live in Wiltshire and need somebody to talk to about your mental health.

Text WILTS to 85258 for free and confidential text message support that won’t appear on your bill.

Trained volunteers are here to listen. We can help with anxiety and stress, depression or sadness, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, panic attacks, loneliness or isolation, abuse and bullying.

Concerned about the rising cost of living?

These organisations and websites may be able to help:

Interactive Community Directory - Wiltshire Council.

Age UK Wiltshire - www.ageuk.org.uk/wiltshire 0808 196 2424

A local charity working in the community to support older people, their families and carers.

Benefits calculators - www.gov.uk/benefits-calculators

Lists the independent benefits calculators available to find out what benefits you could get and how to claim.

Citizens Advice - www.citizensadvice.org.uk 0800 144 8848

Provides advice about budgeting and the extra help you can receive if you’re struggling with the cost of living.

Community fridges - www.hubbub.org.uk/the-community-fridge  

A space where everyone can share surplus food. Hubbub coordinates the world’s largest Community Fridge Network.

Food banks - www.trusselltrust.org/get-help/find-a-foodbank

Community organisations aimed at supporting people who cannot afford the essentials in life. The Trussell Trust supports a nationwide network of food banks that provide emergency food and support.  Ask library staff for a full list of Wiltshire food banks.

FUEL - www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure/fuel-programme

A project that offers children that receive benefits related free school meals the opportunity to take part in fun activities and receive a meal during school holidays.

Help for Households - helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk  

Discover what cost of living support you could be eligible for.

Jobcentre Plus - www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus                                             

If you’re seeking work, you may be able to get six months of broadband through your local Jobcentre Plus.

0800 169 0190

Money Helper - www.moneyhelper.org.uk

0800 138 7777 

A government-approved advice service providing money guidance.

Ofcom – www.ofcom.org.uk/social-tariffs

Lists the cheaper broadband and phone packages (social tariffs) available.

Warm and Safe Wiltshire - www.warmandsafewiltshire.org.uk

Offers Wiltshire residents free and impartial energy saving advice via an advice line - 0800 038 5722. Provides help relating to insulation, heating and draft proofing and advice on available grants and schemes.

Wiltshire Council - www.wiltshire.gov.uk/worried-about-money

Provides information about benefits and the support available.                          

 0300 456 0100

Wiltshire Family & Community Learning - workwiltshire.co.uk     

Offers a range of courses, including ones on balancing budgets, saving energy and shopping for less.

01225 770478

Wiltshire Libraries - www.wiltshire.gov.uk/libraries

Libraries provide warm spaces with free access to books, newspapers, Wi-Fi and computers, plus printing for a small charge, and staff that can help to answer any queries you may have.

Wiltshire Money – wiltshiremoney.org.uk/wiltshire-resources

Lists schemes that provide cost of living support (compiled by Wiltshire Citizens Advice).

 

The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust

The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust provides a home security service and online safety service for over 60s, 18+ with a registered disability and victims of domestic abuse throughout Wiltshire and Swindon. The charity funds the operation of three Bobby vans that provide mobile workshops for Bobby operators to secure homes whilst the team of Stay Safe Online Volunteers offer one to one home visits and community talks on online safety.

The Trust strives to help people in Wiltshire and Swindon by:

• Improving security of domestic premises occupied by the elderly and vulnerable to prevent burglary, hate crime and domestic abuse;
• Reducing incidence of repeat burglary and re-victimisation;
• Promoting awareness of fire safety, detection and prevention;
• Offering reassurance and advice on crime reduction, and sign-posting other agencies that may be of assistance to clients’ particular needs; and,
• Providing practical skills and advice to help prevent online fraud.

Contact BobbyVan@wiltshire.police.uk

01225 256867

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

Dementia and Alzheimer's link to services - Milton Keynes Council

You can get dementia support services in Milton Keynes through  

• Milton Keynes Specialist Memory Service Dementia is a condition that can cause memory loss and other symptoms, if you are at all worried please visit your GP who may refer you to Milton Keynes Specialist Memory Service (CNWL) for further testing. If you receive a positive diagnosis you, and your family or carer will be invited to a post-diagnostic information session and courses run by the Specialist Memory Service. 
• Dementia Information Service (DIS) run by Alzheimer’s Society offers ongoing support and information. You will be asked if you would like DIS to contact you by the Specialist Memory Service or you can contact DIS yourself.
• Adult Social Care can offer information on choosing the right care and support for you and you may be eligible for services.
• Adult Social Care Admiral Nurse Service specialist service to provide support to families and carers in complex situations
• Musical and activity groups including Singing for the Brain sessions organised by the Alzheimer’s Society contact on 01908 232612 for further information. During Covid they are also hosting virtual activity sessions including quizzes and zoom meetings to support carers.

Have a read of the guides and information about living with Dementia and the practical things you or your loved ones can do to live a Dementia-friendly life.

• Age UK guide to Dementia 
• Alzheimer’s Society
• Dementia UK
• NHS Dementia guide
• Carers UK

Website: Dementia and Alzheimer's · Milton Keynes 

 

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

 

Local Support Services

Milton Keynes Domestic Abuse Partnership

MK ACT 

Domestic abuse behaviours 

Domestic abuse doesn’t always mean physical violence; it could be:

• Being forced into doing something sexually that you don’t want to do by a partner or ex-partner.
• Use of weapons, damage to property, physical abuse to children and animals. Threats to harm the non-abusive person, children, animals. Threats to portray the non-abusive person in a bad light to others and removal of children.
• Isolating an individual from others. Controlling what they wear, who they see, where they can go. Coercive control is now an offence under Part 5, S76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015.
• Preventing a person from acquiring money in their own right, restricting how a person uses their money or resources. Making a person pay all the bills, taking out loans in their name. Controlling all the household money.
• Name-calling, being constantly criticised, stalking.

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

Sometimes, after a fall, injury or illness you need some help to look after yourself – known as reablement. This helps you live independently and do things for yourself. 

We can help you to relearn lost skills and get your confidence back. We aim to get you back to doing day-to-day things for yourself, and being as independent as possible.

We will work with you to find out what your needs are and what is causing you the most difficulty. 

If necessary, we can then put together a plan on the care and support that you will need. 

This will help you stay in your own home for as long as possible.

Milton Keynes Integrated Falls preventions Service 

B-Well Group provides Community Falls Prevention Services in Milton Keynes.

The service provides assessment, treatment and advice to older people in a supportive environment. People can be assessed in their own homes and where exercise classes are required these are available free of charge to help reduce risk of falling and improve mobility and balance.

Website: Milton Keynes Integrated Falls preventions Service  

Telephone: 01908686751

 

Milton Keynes Falls Service - Staying Steady

Staying Steady Milton Keynes offers specialist support to individuals, mainly aged over 65 years, who have fallen or are at risk of falling. 

We work with an individual and their carer to make decisions about the best way to reduce the risk of the person falling, raise awareness of risk factors for falling and make any necessary changes to their home to prevent falls.

Website: Milton Keynes Falls Service - Staying Steady

Telephone: 01908 72 5622

 

Self-care and National Support Services

National Support Services

Money Helper

Free and impartial money advice, set up by government

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

Tel: 0800 011 3797

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

 

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

Tel: 03444 111 444

Web: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk

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.

Tel: 0808 808 4000

Web: https://www.nationaldebtline.org/

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.

Tel: 0800 138 1111

Web: https://www.stepchange.org/

PayPlan

PayPlans 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.

Tel: 0800 280 2816

Web: www.payplan.com

Debt Advice Foundation

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

Tel: 0800 043 40 50

Web: http://www.debtadvicefoundation.org/

Credit Unions

Credit unions offer an alternative to traditional banks and building societies for saving and borrowing. 

They're there to provide a financial community. Credit Unions can help those who can't get access to ordinary bank products; a lifeline in less well-off communities for people grappling with their finances.

Web: https://www.findyourcreditunion.co.uk/

Local Support Services

Help with paying your rent and Council Tax

Housing Benefit and Council Tax reduction

Discretionary Council Tax Reduction Scheme

Energy Bills Rebate

Discretionary Housing Payments

Help with essential costs including food and energy

Local Welfare Provision

Food Bank

Household Support Fund

Other Government Support

Universal Credit

Job Seekers Allowance

Income Support

Employment and Support Allowance

Pension Credit

Tax Credits

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

Web: http://gamanon.org.uk/

 

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

Self-care and National Support Services

Local Support Services

Free NHS Health Checks

The NHS Health Check is a simple check of your heart health. Aimed at adults in England aged 40 to 74, it checks your vascular or circulatory health and works out your risk of developing some of the most disabling – but preventable – illnesses. It is free of charge, including any follow-up tests or appointments.

Call your local GP for a referral for this service.

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

Walking for Health

They provide volunteer-led walks in various locations across Milton Keynes for people of all fitness levels.

Website: Walking for health

Telephone: 01908 253 619

Easy ways to eat well and move more

Welcome to the new home of Change4Life. We have a new name and look, but don't worry – we're still here to help you and your family eat better and move more. Click here: Healthier Families - Home - NHS (www.nhs.uk) 

• Food facts
• Recipes 
• Activities 
• Children's weight 

 

Crown

Healthy lifestyle programme with GP support, access to fruit and vegetable. Referrals into weight management services, depression and non-pharma interventions.

Available at the following practices in Milton Keynes:

Red House Surgery

Address: 241 Queensway, Fenny Stratford, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 2EH

Telephone: 01908 375111

Website: https://redhousesurgery.co.uk/

 

Whaddon Medical Centre

Address: 25 Witham Court, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK3 7QU

Telephone:  01908 373058

Website: https://whaddonhealthcare.co.uk/  

 

Water Eaton Health Centre

Address: Water Eaton Health Centre, Fern Grove, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 3HN

Telephone:  01908 371318

Website: 

 

Cobbs Garden Surgery

Address: West St, Olney MK46 5QG

Telephone:  01234 988590

Website: https://cobbsgardensurgery.co.uk/

 

South West Network 

Wellbeing in families in low socio-economic and deprived areas – Children and Young People (CYP) weight reduction through physical activity.

Local Providers in Milton Keynes

 

Bedford Street Surgery

Address: 4 Bedford St, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 2TX

Website: https://bedfordstreetsurgery.co.uk/

Telephone: 01908 658850

 

Westfield Road Surgery

Address: 11 Westfield Rd, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 2DJ

Website: https://westfieldroadsurgery.co.uk/

Telephone: 01908 377103

 

Westcroft Health Centre

Address: 1 Savill Lane, Westcroft, Milton Keynes MK4 4EN

Website: https://westfieldroadsurgery.co.uk/

Telephone: 01908 520545

 

Parkside Medical Centre

Address: Whalley Drive, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK3 6EN

Website: https://parksmed.co.uk/

Telephone: 01908 375341

 

MoreLife - Weight Management and Health Improvement Programmes 

Our weight management programmes to create a long-lasting shift in behaviour and provide support tools to achieve healthy goals.

Join the 12 week programme via the website or by calling the phone number below. 

MoreLife 12 WEEK PROGRAMME

The MoreLife 12-week group programme offers a psychologically informed model. Each session lasts for one and a half hours with a 30-minute drop-in before or after.

Website: Bedfordshire & Milton Keynes | Weight Management - MoreLife UK (more-life.co.uk)

Telephone: 0808 208 2340 

 

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

SMART Milton Keynes - Homeless support

Covering Rogers Court, Harpur Street and the Prebend centre, SMART Bedford provides support to people who are: homeless, rough sleeping, vulnerably housed and those who are socially isolated in Bedfordshire.

Website: SMART Milton Keynes - Rough Sleeper & Homeless Support - SMART (smartcjs.org.uk)

Call: 01908562825 

Email: supportservices@smartcjs.org.uk

Milton Keynes Homeless Services 

Select from the options provided in the website link below to find the services and organisations that you are looking for to help you or someone else. 

Website: Housing solution and homelessness advice Milton Keynes council

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

Talk For Change - Milton Keynes

Offers triage and assessment of all mental health referrals between the hours of 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.

Telephone: 01908 725099 (option 1)

Email: cnw-tr.mkspa@nhs.net

Website: https://www.cnwl.nhs.uk/service/milton-keynes-talk-change/

Milton Keynes Talking therapies (IAPT)They provide NHS talking therapies for common mental health problems like stress, anxiety, and depression.

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

Free, safe, and anonymous online support and counseling for anxiety, stress, and family relationships, main issues occurring mental health coaching.

You can log on for one-to-one online counseling with a qualified counsellor

Opening time: 

• 12noon–10 pm on weekdays
• 6pm until 10pm at weekends
• 365 days a year

You can also have access to:

• 24-hour access to self-help materials
• Post messages in our moderated forums
• Connect with people who are feeling the same as you
• Receive messages of advice and support

Website: https://kooth.com/

 

The Waitling Street Network

Children and Young people mental health using Primary Care Network (PCN) funded services to deliver a structured healthcare pathway. There is an online level one Mental Health course which is opened to adults.

Milton Keynes Providers

Stony Medical Centre

Address: The Health Centre, Market Square, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes MK11 1YA

Website: https://www.stonymedicalcentre.co.uk/

Telephone: 01908 260382

 

Hilltops Medical Centre

Address: Kensington Drive, Great Holm, Milton Keynes MK8 9HN

Website: https://www.hilltopsmedicalcentre.org/

Telephone: 01908 568446

 

Watling Vale Medical Centre

Address: Burchard Crescent, Shenley Church End, Milton Keynes MK5 6EY

Website: https://www.watlingvalemedicalcentre.co.uk/

Telephone: 01908 501177

NHS Better Health - Every Mind Matters

Website: https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/

Heads Up - Men's Mental Health Campaign

Website: https://www.headstogether.org.uk/heads-up/

Staying Alive App - Suicide Prevention Resource

Website: StayAlive - Essential suicide prevention for everyday life

BLMK Keeping Well Service

Website: Home :: Keeping Well Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes (keepingwellblmk.nhs.uk)

MIND Suicide Prevention Pathway Service

Website: https://www.mind-blmk.org.uk/how-we-can-help/suicide-prevention-pathway-service/

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

A.M.K.E.R.S (Active Milton Keynes Referral Scheme)

AMKERS aims to help participants achieve 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity over a week

Who?
People aged 17 and over who consider themselves to be inactive.

Individuals with a cardiac condition without undertaking cardiac rehabilitation.

Those deemed not medically fit to take part by a healthcare professional.

Where?
Various gyms and leisure centres across Milton Keynes (some include swimming pools)

How to refer:
Must be through a GP or other healthcare professional.

For more information

Call - 01908 254 267

Email - exercise.referral@milton-keynes.gov.uk

Fishermead Medical Centre

Address: Fishermead Boulevard, Fishermead, Milton Keynes MK6 2LR

Website: https://fishermeadmedicalcentre.co.uk/

Telephone:  01908 609240

 

Walnut Tree Health Centre

Address: 2 Blackberry Ct, Walnut Tree, Milton Keynes MK7 7PB

Website: https://www.walnuttreehealthcentre.co.uk/ 

Telephone: 01908 691123

 

Asplands Medical Centre

Address: Wood St, Asplands Cl, Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes MK17 8QP

Website: https://asplandsmedicalcentre.co.uk/

Telephone: 01908 582069

 

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

iCaSH

iCaSH is an integrated contraception and sexual health service which provides all aspects of sexual and reproductive health.

We also work with Terrence Higgins Trust, who provide community outreach services including free condoms, Chlamydia screening and sexual health advice and signposting.

Our staff are trained to provide expert professional advice and care to meet your individual needs with tact and sensitivity, respecting the diversity of our clients. All information that you give us is confidential and we will not tell anyone else about your personal information. However, there are some exceptional circumstances where we would need to share your information to keep you or others safe.

All iCaSH clinics are self-referral, which means that a GP referral letter is not necessary. The service is free, confidential and non-judgemental.

Website: https://www.icash.nhs.uk/where-to-go/icash-milton-keynes

Telephone: 0300 300 3030

• iCaSH Express (postal) test
• https://www.icash.nhs.uk/contraception-sexual-health/express-test
• Online HIV and syphilis testing - https://freetesting.hiv/
• GPs – Long Acting Reversible Contraception & STI testing
• Pharmacy – Emergency Hormonal Contraception, STI testing, chlamydia treatment

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

The Stop Smoking Service

If you or someone you know is looking to quit smoking, we’re here to help. You are up to three times more likely to quit if you use a combination of Stop Smoking medication with specialist help and support from your local Stop Smoking Service. Our friendly, specialist advisors offer free advice and support across Central Bedfordshire.

By getting support from the Stop Smoking Service you will:

• Get help to find the right product for you and guidance on how to use it. There are a wide range of products available including a selection of Nicotine Replacement products (NRT), Champix and Zyban (prescribed medications).
• Receive specialist behavioural support to help tweak habits and behaviours that trigger the desire to smoke.
• Talk to an experienced advisor, who has helped many people to quit and can share their expertise with you.
• Have access to specialist resources and information including “My Quit Route”, a comprehensive app that will allow you to plan and organise your quit attempt, supporting you 24 hours a day

Website: https://www.thestopsmokingservice.co.uk/ 

Telephone:0800 013 0553

'My Quit Route' App

The Stop Smoking Service have released a new mobile app 'My Quit Route' designed by a UK based team of clinical, health and research psychologists to help you quit at any time of the day. 

“My Quit Route” is a fully personalised programme accessible 24/7 via an app on Android and iOS devices. Self-assess your level of nicotine dependence, get advice on the dangers of continuing to smoke, receive tailored behaviour change support when you need it, track your progress and expenditure, plus there are even built in relaxation techniques to help you stay smoke free.  This app works best alongside support from our Stop Smoking Service.

Website: http://www.thestopsmokingservice.co.uk/2019/08/my-quit-route-app/

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.

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

Age UK Milton Keynes  - Telephone Befriending Service

This service is aimed to help older people aged 50 or over, living in Bedfordshire. Our team make contact with the client over the phone to arrange a time and day convenient for the client to call.

We try to keep a regular service by providing a friendly voice over the phone to chat and share any concerns. We take referrals from professionals, concerned others, and self-referrals. The aim of this service is to tackle loneliness and show there is someone out there who cares, we will always have a friendly ear, and talk through any worries.  

Website: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/miltonkeynes/ 

Telephone: 01908 550700

Email: info@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk 

Independent Age

All of us can feel lonely or isolated from time to time, whether we live alone or with others. Loneliness is the feeling of sadness that comes from not having as much company or the type of company that you would like, and it affects everyone differently. If you're feeling lonely, there are things you can do to help yourself and places you can look for support.

Website: 

Telephone: 0800 319 6789

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

 

Addiction Recovery Community Milton Keynes (ARC-M)Overview - Addiction Recovery Community (Arc) Milton Keynes - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Path 2 Recovery (P2R)

Path 2 Recovery offers free, confidential, addiction services for all adult Central Bedfordshire residents and those with a GP in Central Bedfordshire. Anyone at any stage of their alcohol or drug difficulties is welcome, with a single point of access to assessment and treatment for both substance misuse and associated emotional/mental health needs.

With an individual assessment and personal recovery plan, the team offers one-to-one and group therapies to help sustain recovery, including the opportunity to volunteer and support others in the future.

Website: https://www.elft.nhs.uk/services/path-recovery-p2r-central-bedfordshire

Telephone: 0333 332 4019

Email: elt-tr.p2rdunstable@nhs.net

 

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

Please note that these are not crisis services.

If you have serious concerns for a person, do not leave them on their own and get urgent professional help:

• from their GP
• by calling 999
• by taking them to the nearest accident and emergency department

Remember to make sure that you are safe and do not put yourself at risk.

Mind BLMK

A local mental health charity, with a positive and holistic approach to promoting mental wellbeing.

Mind BLMK also offer FREE suicide awareness training for those who live or work in Bedfordshire, Luton or Milton Keynes.

Website: https://www.mind-blmk.org.uk/

Tel: 0300 330 0648

CAMHS - Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service

CAMHS provides outpatient assessments, support and treatment for children and young people up to the age of 18 experiencing moderate to severe mental health problems. The service works to provide them with a greater knowledge of their condition and improve coping techniques.

Self-referrals are not accepted. Referrals are accepted from your GP, health professional, social worker, teacher, or youth worker.

Website: Milton Keynes CAHMS

Telephone: 0190820724228