Getting Support.
No matter what you are feeling, if you need support, these organisations are here to help.
People to talk to
If you are a young person in Cambridgeshire or Peterborough up to the age of 25 and want some information, advice or support Centre 33 is there for you.
Call them on: 0333 4141890
A free, private and confidential service where you can talk about anything. Whatever your worry, whenever you need help, they're here for you online, on the phone, anytime.
Call them on: 0800 11 11
Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. They're here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Available to any age and anywhere in the UK.
Call them on: 116 123
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
Their helpline and webchat are available to people who are down or have hit a wall for any reason; they offer a space to talk and get support or information.
Call them on: 0800 58 58 58
Are you in crisis?
The FRS provides 24-hour access, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, to mental health care, advice, support and treatment to people in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
By calling 111, and selecting option 2, you will be put through to a member of the FRS who will speak to you and discuss your current mental health needs.
Use their Crisis Messenger, for free 24/7 support across the UK if you are experiencing a mental health crisis.
If you need urgent help text 'YM' to 85258.
Shout is a free 24/7 text service for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. It’s a place to go if you’re struggling to cope and you need immediate help.
Text 'SHOUT' to 85258
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or it is an emergency call 999.
Outside of the UK? Click here.
Support directory
Whatever you are going through, help is available. Use this directory to find support organisations by category. Look out for LOCAL organisations, and those offering support to ALL AGES or for YOUNG PEOPLE specifically. Inclusion or exclusion from this directory does not signify that CALMtown endorses or does not endorse the activities of a particular organisation, and CALMtown is not responsible for the information or services provided by external organisations.
Addiction and substance misuse
Adfam - Families - drugs and alcohol
Information and support for families affected by drugs and alcohol. Runs helplines and local support groups across England.
Drinkline
Free, confidential national helpline for people who are concerned about their own or someone else's drinking.
Helpline: 0300 123 1110 (weekdays, 9am-8pm; weekends 11am-4pm; freephone)
Free, online chat service for anyone who is looking for information or advice about their own, or someone else's drinking.
Runs self-help groups across Great Britain for anyone who wants to change their drinking behaviours, based on 12 step model of recovery.
Helpline: 0800 917 7650 (freephone)
Email: help@aamail.org
CASUS - Cambridgeshire Child and Adolescent Substance Use Service
LOCAL; YOUNG PEOPLE
CASUS provide information, support and specialist treatment in Cambridgeshire, around drug and alcohol use, to young people under 18 and their families.
Phone: 01480 445316 (Huntingdon); 01223 214614 (Cambridge)
Email: casus@cpft.nhs.uk
LOCAL
CGL Cambridgeshire provides specialist treatment and support to adults (and their family members/loved ones) with substance misuse issues. They offer one-to-one support, harm reduction services, medical prescribing and detoxification as well as structured group work, recovery support and peer led activities. For Cambridgeshire residents.
Phone: 0300 555 0101, option 2
Email: cambridgeshirereferrals@cgl.org.uk
YOUNG PEOPLE
National drug education service providing information on legal and illegal drugs for teenagers and adolescents.
Anxiety, depression and stress
Aims to support everyone affected by anxiety. Offers talking therapies and self-help groups.
Helps people with any kind of anxiety disorder. Specialises in self-help based recovery via their helpline and website resources.
Helpline: 0844 967 4848 (everyday 10am-10pm)
Youth helpline: 0330 606 1174 (for 13-20 year olds; Mon-Wed and Fri 3-6pm; Thu 3-8pm; Sat 6-8pm)
Provides support and information to those affected by OCD. Runs self-help groups across the country as well as online support groups and advocacy services.
Helpline: 0845 390 6263 or 020 7253 2664 (weekdays 9:30am-8pm, depending on volunteer availability)
Aims to help sufferers of phobias, OCD and other anxiety disorders to overcome their fears.
LOCAL; SELF REFER
Mental health charity promoting positive wellbeing across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and South Lincolnshire, supporting people on their road to recovery from a wide range of mental health challenges.
LOCAL; SELF REFER
The Good Life Service encourages peer support and community connectivity and is available to adults aged 18+ living in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. It has something for everyone, regardless of whether or not you have a diagnosed mental health problem.
LOCAL
A mental health and wellbeing helpline for people aged 18+ living in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Lifeline provides listening support and information to someone experiencing mental distress or if you are supporting someone in distress.
Helpline: 0808 808 2121 (everyday 11am-11pm; freephone)
Primary Care Mental Health Service - CPFT (NHS)
LOCAL; GP REFERRAL
The Primary Care Mental Health Service is a service that covers all surgeries in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. The service provides specialist mental health support for GP surgeries so that patients with mental ill health can access prompt advice and support, receive help in a community setting and experience a more joined-up approach to care.
Psychological Wellbeing Service - CPFT (NHS)
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Offering support to those aged 17+ via a range of brief supported self-help and talking therapy options. The service usually helps people with mild to moderate mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, panic attacks, phobias, or obsessive compulsive disorder.
Phone: 0300 300 0055 (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm) or click on the link to self refer
LOCAL; YOUNG PEOPLE; SELF REFER
Confidential and anonymous online service for young people. Once signed up, Kooth users have access to BACP trained counsellors, peer-to-peer support through moderated forums, and a range of self-help materials, co-written by other young people, Any young person aged 11-18 with a Cambridgeshire or Peterborough postcode can access the service for free.
LOCAL; ADULTS; YOUNG PEOPLE; SELF REFER
Provides affordable counselling support to couples, families and individuals of all ages (children, teenages, young adults, adults and the elderly) in Cambridgeshire. The charity asks for donations towards appointments based on income.
Phone: 01223 464385
Arts and Minds - Arts on Prescription
LOCAL
Arts and Minds offers a range of creative programmes in St Ives and across Cambridgeshire, including Arts on Prescription (held at the Norris Museum), a wellbeing choir and pottery for younger people with dementia.
LOCAL; SELF REFER
Insight Healthcare provides free NHS talking therapy services as part of the IAPT (Improving Access to Psychologial Therapies) programme, for people who are feeling low, anxious or stressed. Residents of Peterborough or Cambridgeshire aged 17+ are eligible for support via the Peterborough service and you can self-refer via their website.
Phone: 0300 555 0888 (Mon, Thu, Fri 9am-5:30pm; Tue, Wed 9am-7:30pm
Email: peterborough@insighthealthcare.org
LOCAL; SELF REFER
CAMEO is an early intervention service for people aged 14-35 resident in Cambridgeshire or Peterborough who are experiencing symptoms of psychosis for the first time. The service provides support for individuals, families, carers and friends. You can refer yourself; see the website for contact details.
LOCAL; SELF REFER
Lifecraft is a user-led organisation for adults in the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough area who have experience of mental health difficulties in their lives. They offer a wide range of free mental health services to help and support members in their wellbeing and recovery, through services including creative activities, recovery groups, social activities and employment and volunteering opportunities. They also have an information hub, a counselling service, a suicide bereavement support service, and a 365 day a year telephone helpline (Lifeline).
Cambridgeshire Consultancy in Counselling
LOCAL; SELF REFER
A charity that provides low cost counselling services to those in need, who would otherwise not be able to afford to access the support they need. Clients contribute to their care according to what they can afford. Support people with a wide variety of problems including anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, critical or chronic illness, disability, life change and many more.
Phone: 01223 233047 (Huntingdonshire and Cambridgeshire)'; 01733 553166 (Peterborough)
LOCAL; SELF REFER
A long established, not-for-profit, psychological treatment service, commissioned by Cambridge and Peterborough NHS to provide group therapy in Cambridgeshire (from a centre in Cambridge; currently online). They offer therapy for local people experiencing emotional and mental health worries. CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) groups are currently fully funded; other services incur a fee based on ability to pay.
Phone: 01223 357221 / 01223 662918
Email: info@grouptherapycambridge.org.uk
A free platform containing 8 easy-to-access, short interventions to combat high anxiety, panic and fatigue. Designed for NHS staff at this difficult time, but the exercises could be used by anyone to help with their mental health and wellbeing. Features tutorial videos, recorded exercises and YouTube links.
Bereavement
Supports and advises people after a death in England and Wales. Their website and helpline provide help with the wide range of practical issues that need to be managed after a bereavement, as well as signposting to other support.
Helpline: 0800 634 9494 (weekdays 9am-5pm except bank holidays)
Helping children and young people (up to age 25), parents, and families, to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies.
Helpline: 0800 02 888 40 (weekdays 9am-5pm except bank holidays)
Email: support@childbereavementuk.org
Live chat available via their website
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide
Supports those bereaved by suicide through a helpline, email and self-help groups. For those aged 18+
Helpline: 0300 111 5065 (9am-9pm everyday)
SELF-REFER
Support, advice and information for children, young people and adults when someone dies. Helpline, bereavement counselling and facilitated self-help groups across the country.
Helpline: 0808 808 1677 (Mon and Fri 9:30am-5pm; Tue-Thu 9:30am-8pm; weekends 10am-2pm)
Live chat available weekdays 9am-9pm via their website
Help is at Hand - Support after Suicide Partnership
A booklet specifically written for those bereaved by suicide by those who have also been affected by suicide. The booklet gives practical information as well as details of further support.
Suicide Bereavement Support Service - Lifecraft
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
This service aims to ensure information and access to support is available to those bereaved by suicide. This service is available to family and friends in the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough area.
Suicide Bereavement Support Group - CPFT (NHS)
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Monthly support group meetings held in Peterborough for Cambridgeshire residents bereaved by suicide. Please see link for further details - please contact them before attending for the first time.
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Offering support to parents after the death of a child of any age and from any cause. Offering online and local support (including in St Ives) - see the website for further details.
Helpline: 0345 123 2304 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-4.30pm)
Email: info@tcf.org.uk
SELF-REFER
Stillbirth and neonatal death charity, supporting anyone affected by the death of a baby, Free national helpline, a bereavement support app for parents, families and carers, a UK-wide network of support groups with trained befrienders, an online forum and a wide range of bereavement support resources available.
Helpline: 0808 164 3332 (freephone Mon-Fri 10am-3pm; Tue and Thu 6pm-9pm)
Email: helpline@sands.org.uk
SELF-REFER
Charity helping men tackle the mental, emotional and physical health conditions brought about by bereavement via a telephone based peer support service (register via the website), and weekend retreats.
Phone: 0800 915 0400 (freephone)
Email: hello@StrongMen.org.uk
Carers
Provides advice on caring related issues, including financial and practical matters, and runs an online peer support community of UK carers.
LOCAL, ALL AGES
Carer support service and replacement care service supporting carers of all ages across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Norfolk. They also offer flexible, professional homecare services to adults and children with a range of disabilities and health conditions.
Phone: 0345 241 0954 or 01480 499090
Email: hello@caringtogether.org
Carers Direct helpline
If you are a carer, the helpline advisers can give you information to help make decisions about your personal support needs and the needs of the person you're looking after. This information includes assessments, benefits, direct payments, individual budgets, time off, and maintaining, leaving or going back to work or education. The helpline doesn't however provide personal financial, medical or legal advice, or casework, advocacy, representation or counselling.
Phone 0300 123 1053 (weekdays 9am-8pm; weekends 11am-4pm)
Ask your question using webchat (weekdays 9am-8pm; weekends 11am-4pm)
Get help by email
Rethink Mental Illness - Huntingdonshire Carers Support Group
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Mutual support group for parents and partners caring for people with mental illness. The group meets monthly in Huntingdon - other support groups are available for other areas, see the website for details. Please contact the group in advance to check current meeting arrangements.
Email: huntingdoncarersgroup@rethink.org
Rethink Mental Illness - Advice service
The Rethink Mental Illness Advice Service offers practical help on issues such as the Mental Health Act, community care and welfare benefits, living with mental illness, medication and care.
Helpline: 0300 5000 927 (Mon-Fri 09.30am-4pm)
LOCAL
Helps Cambridgeshire parents who have children with additional needs and disabilities, run by parents, for parents. They give help and information to parent carers of children and young people aged -25 with additional needs and disabilities, and give parent carers opportunities to have a say and get involved in improving local services. Pinpoint is based in the Town Hall in St Ives.
Phone: 01480 877333
Emails: information@pinpoint-cambs.org.uk
Centre 33 - Young Carers Project
LOCAL; YOUNG PEOPLE
The Centre 33 Young Carers Project works with young carers up to the age of 19 in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. They can help in lots of different ways including offering a Young Carers Needs Assessment; giving you someone to talk to; helping you meet other young carers in the same situation as you; and supporting you with life transitions like starting a new school.
Phone: 0333 414809
Text/WhatsApp: 07514 783745
Email: youngcarers@centre33.org.uk
Crime victims
Victim and Witness Hub - Cambridgeshire Constabulary
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Being a victim of crime can affect your mental health. The Victims and Witness Hub provides a variety of information that may be of help.
Victim Services Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Providing independent and confidential advice and support for victims and witnesses in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
Helpline: 0800 781 6818 (see website for opening hours)
Email: victimandwitnesshub@cambs.pnn.police.uk
Victim and Witness Information
This is a free nationwide service which helps people find local support after a crime has taken place. It brings together information on what will happen after reporting a crime, people that may be involved, help that should be provided, and how to complain if something goes wrong.
Victim Support run a confidential free helpline for anyone affected by crime as well as emotional and practical support, including advice on reporting a crime and processes involved in going to court and what happens during a trial.
Helpline: 0808 16 89 111 (24/7)
Eating disorders
Provides ongoing care, emotional support and practical guidance for anyone affected by eating disorders. You can book a support appointment online.
Helpline: 03000 11 12 13 (Wed-Fri 9am-1pm and 2pm-5pm)
Email: support@anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk or familyandfriends@anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk
Supports anyone affected by eating disorders. Helplines for adults and young people, online support and peer support groups across the country.
Helpline: 0808 801 0677 (for anyone over 18)
Studentline: 0808 801 0811 (for students)
Youthline: 0808 801 0711 (for anyone under 18)
(weekdays 9am-8pm; weekends and bank holidays 4pm-8pm)
One-to-one webchat available
Adult Eating Disorder Service - CPFT (NHS)
LOCAL; GP REFERRAL
Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Foundation Trust run the Adult Eating Disorder Service locally. Most people will be seen as outpatients, with a small number requiring a hospital stay. To access support for an eating disorder, please visit your GP.
Personalised Eating Disorder Support (PEDS)
SELF-REFER
Specialist eating disorder charity based in Peterborough, supporting individuals locally, around the country and further afield via their Skype and email services. Offering a free assessment with signposting and advice to both service users and families/carers if appropriate. Thereafter, individual/family sessions are available for a fee.
Employment - employees
Shaw Trust has over thirty years' experience of providing employment services to help people from a diverse range of backgrounds to find and stay in work. Contact them via their website and one of their advisors will contact you.
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Illuminate is a charity providing coaching and personal development courses throughout the East of England. Currently offering online courses for Cambridgeshire residents who are not currently in work, they help people who have experienced a setback including mental ill health, focusing on building self-confidence and strengthening self-belief. Apply online for courses, workshops, sessions and coaching.
EDGE employment support - Groundwork East
LOCAL
EDGE signposts job seekers in and around Huntingdon to suitable roles and training, and works with local businesses to find applicants for their vacancies.
Groundwork work across the East of England on a wide range of projects including life skills and employment in partnership with local organisations and businesses. They empower local communities to take charge of their lives, green spaces, and local environments.
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough office:
Phone: 01480 587140
Email: cambsandpeterborough@groundwork.org.uk
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Supporting individuals to find or retain paid employment, voluntary work, education and relevant training. Helping people aged over 18, living in Cambridgeshire, diagnosed with mental ill health (this includes stress, anxiety and depression) and motivated to engage with the services provided. Referrals from any organisation providing services to clients with a mental health diagnosis, or directly from any eligible individual.
Cambridgeshire employment service:
Phone: 01480 456257
Email: cambs&beds.referrals@richmondfellowship.org.uk
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Free specialised support service for unemployed job seekers across the UK, helping you overcome any issues preventing you from finding work: careers advice, CV writing and skills training, in-work support and health and wellbeing support. Local offices in Peterborough and Cambridge.
UK charity providing mental health and wellbeing support services to all education staff and organisations. Their free and confidential helpline is available 24/7 to everyone working in education and is available UK wide. They also provide support for education organisations.
Helpline: 08000 562 561
Employment - employers
UK charity raising awareness, addressing the stigma of poor mental health and promoting positive mental wellbeing across workplaces. Helping make sense of available options and supporting employers to address mental health within their workplace. Mates in Mind focuses on construction, and related sectors including transport, logistics, and manufacturing.
Website curated by Mind, the mental health charity. Whether you work with 10 people, 10,000 people or just yourself, paying attention to mental health in the workplace as never been more important. Mental Health At Work can help you find the information and resources you need. Featuring resources, toolkits and regular blogs.
Mental Health Foundation workplace resources
The Mental Health Foundation has developed a range of resources aimed at tackling mental health in the workplace. This included the helpful guide 'Managing mental health in the workplace', available via their website.
Time to Change - guide to workplace mental health
Anti-stigma campaign Time to Change has a dedicated website section providing guidance on many aspects of dealing with mental health in the workplace, including legal guidance and onwards signposting to additional resources.
Time to Change - school leaders
Resources for school leaders to cultivate a positive culture around mental health among students. Featuring assemblies, session plans and downloadable materials ready for you to use in your school.
Family, parenting and relationships
National family support charity providing help and support in all aspects of family life. They run a dedicated confidential helpline, an online forum, and provide a range of information on issues relating to parenting.
Helpline: 0808 800 2222 (Mon-Fri 9am-9pm; Sat-Sun 10am-3pm)
Email: askus@familylives.org.uk
Webchat (Mon-Fri 1.30pm-5.30pm)
Cambridgeshire Child and Family Centres
LOCAL
Child and Family Centres offer groups, events, activities, courses and support for families with children aged 0-19, provided by Cambridgeshire County Council. Register your interest via the website.
Parenting and Family Support - Cambridgeshire County Council
LOCAL
Lots of resources and support available through the county council. See their website for details of services including how to access support for your family, parenting courses, and help with a child's behaviour.
LOCAL
Helps Cambridgeshire parents who have children with additional needs and disabilities, run by parents, for parents. They give help and information to parent carers of children and young people aged -25 with additional needs and disabilities, and give parent carers opportunities to have a say and get involved in improving local services. Pinpoint is based in the Town Hall in St Ives.
Phone: 01480 877333
Emails: information@pinpoint-cambs.org.uk
LOCAL
Local branch of the national charity Relate, Relate Cambridge has over 30 experienced and trained counsellors who work with individuals, couples, children, young people and families and offer a wide range of services.
Phone: 01302 347866 (Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm)
LGBTQ+
A national self-help body run by and for the transgender community. Welcoming and offering support and information to all transgender people and their partners.
LOCAL; YOUNG PEOPLE
Promoting the health, wellbeing and inclusion of LGBTQ+ young people across Cambridgeshire; providing free one-to-one support for LGBTQ+ young people up to the age of 25; free LGBTQ+ social groups; residentials; community care; a library of articles and resources, and a podcast. Contact The Kite Trust via their website, phone or email.
Phone: 01223 369508
Email: info@thekitetrust.org.uk
Confidential support, information and referral services for the LGBTQ+ community, including online chat services.
Phone: 0300 330 0630 (every day 10am-10pm)
Email: chris@switchboard.lgbt
Supports all LGBTQ+ people with a range of help and advice services and by working in partnership with businesses and communities to tackle issues related to discrimination.
Phone: 0800 050 2020 (freephone information service, Mon-Fri 9.30am-4.30pm)
Email: info@stonewall.org.uk
Money and debt
Charity providing free debt advice by phone and online to people across the UK. Their website features an online tool to get debt help now.
Phone: 0808 808 4000 (Mon-Fri 9am-8pm and Sat 9.30am-1pm)
Webchat with an adviser (Mon-Fri 9am-8pm and Sat 9.30am-1pm)
Free and impartial advice on money management, debt, pensions and other money related challenges. Advice and guides to help improve your finances; tools and calculators to help keep track and plan ahead; support over the phone and online.
Phone: 0800 138 7777 or Typetalk: 18001 0800 915 4622 (Mon-Fri 8am-6pm)
Webchat (Mon-Fri 8am-6pm; Sat 8am-3pm)
The Bridge Money Advice Centre
LOCAL
A free-of-charge, friendly, caring and professional debt advice service, based in St Ives, serving Huntingdon, Godmanchester, Fenstanton, Somersham, and St Ives. Helping those in financial difficulties by putting together debt management plans, including a budget for the client to live on and a repayment proposal for creditors.
Phone: 01480 498802
Email: debtadvice@thebridgechurch.co.uk
LOCAL
Free, friendly, professional and confidential debt advice service serving Huntingdon and the surrounding area, including Godmanchester, Brampton, and many other surrounding villages. Impartial advisers will work with you to put together a personal debt management plan.
Phone: 01480 418866
Email: help@huntsmoneyadvice.co.uk
Rural Cambs Citizens Advice Huntingdon
LOCAL
For residents of Fenland and Huntingdonshire offering advice on many topics including benefits and tax credits, debt, managing your money, housing, work and relationships. Face-to-face services are not available at present but for general advice you can call the Adviceline, check advice through their website, or use the online advice service on their website.
Adviceline: 0808 278 7807 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-3.30pm)
Email: help@huntsmoneyadvice.co.uk
Citizens Advice Web Chat - Debt Advice
Talk about your debt issue with a trained adviser online. Chat is usually available Mon-Fri, 8am-7pm (excluding bank holidays).
Providing free, confidential and expert debt advice and money guidance, and continuing support while you deal with your money worries. Get free online debt advice in less than 30 minutes from the UK's leading debt charity.
PayPlan's online debt solution tool, PlanFinder, can give you a personalised debt solution in as little as 15 minutes. They offer free live chat and phone support for immediate help. Free debt advice and debt management plans.
Phone: 0800 280 2816 (freephone Mon-Fri 8am-8pm; Sat 9am-3pm)
NHS mental health services
Primary Care Mental Health Service - CPFT (NHS)
LOCAL; GP REFERRAL
The Primary Care Mental Health Service is a service that covers all surgeries in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. The service provides specialist mental health support for GP surgeries so that patients with mental ill health can access prompt advice and support, receive help in a community setting and experience a more joined-up approach to care.
Links to information on how to access mental health services for adults, children and young people, and where to get urgent help for a mental health crisis or emergency.
Older people
Age UK Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Offering a wide range of expert information, advice and practical and social support to older people, including a visiting support service, sharing time service, homes support service, and handyperson service. Lots of details of services on the website.
Helpline: 0300 6669860 (Mon-Fri 9am-3pm)
Email: infoandadvice@ageukcap.org.uk
LOCAL
Care Network provides help for vulnerable and older, isolated people living in Cambridgeshire - enabling them to remain independent and maintain social contact with friends and the community. Providing information and advice to help you access the care, support and practical help you need, and community groups to help you meet new friends, learn new skills, keep physically and mentally fit and have fun. Referral is needed, for practical help in the home.
LOCAL
The Bobby Scheme helps older, vulnerable and disabled people across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough who are either the victims of burglary, domestic abuse or other crimes, or who are concerned about home and personal security. By improving home security with security devices and alarms, they improve residents' health and wellbeing.
Phone: 01480 413311
Email: infor@thebobbyscheme.org
Older people's and adult community services - CPFT (NHS)
LOCAL
Community and mental health services for older people and adults in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough:
Neighbourhood teams (mental health, district nursing, physiotherapy and occupational therapy)
Locality mental health services (mental health support in the community including dementia carers' support service and memory clinic)
LOCAL
Really comprehensive information hub packed with links to local support services and advice for older people on a range of topics including care, Coronavirus support, money and finance, legal issues, enjoying life, health and wellbeing, dementia and end of life. The health and wellbeing section includes links to local befriending services, exercise classes, stroke recovery groups, meal delivery services and specialist dementia services.
Personality disorders
Personality Disorders Community Team - CPFT (NHS)
LOCAL
The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Community Team offer assessment and treatment advice, support, care plans and specialist interventions. If you are a member of the public, you need to ask your GP to refer you to the Primary Care Mental Health Service.
Emergence is a user-led organisation with the overarching aim of supporting all people affected by personality disorder, including service users, carers, family and friends and professionals.
Side by Side - Mind online community
An online community open to anybody who has an experience of mental health problems, or is closely connected to someone that has. The community has been designed to exist alongside your current methods of managing your mental health.
Physical health
Huntingdonshire Health Walks - Walking for Health
LOCAL
Part of the national initiative 'Walking for Health', these walks provide people within the community the opportunity to participate in an easy and free way to keep fit and stay healthy. Weekly walks available in St Ives, St Neots, Ramsey, Sawtry, Huntingdon and Yaxley. Contact the scheme co-ordinator for details.
LOCAL
A friendly and impartial service that offers Cambridgeshire residents free help and support for any healthy change you want to make in your life. Services include weight management for adults and children; health trainers; stop smoking services (CAMQUIT) and falls prevention.
Phone: 0333 005 0093 (Mon-Fri 8.30am-7pm)
Email: changepointcambs@everyonehealth.co.uk
Register online
Pregnancy
Support for everyone affected by perinatal mental health issues (including perinatal depression and psychosis), and their partners. They offer support by phone and email, and online communities and in-person support groups.
Helpline: 0808 1961 776 (everyday 11am-10pm, freephone)
Email: info@pandasfoundation.org.uk
SELF-REFER
Stillbirth and neonatal death charity, supporting anyone affected by the death of a baby, Free national helpline, a bereavement support app for parents, families and carers, a UK-wide network of support groups with trained befrienders, an online forum and a wide range of bereavement support resources available.
Helpline: 0808 164 3332 (freephone Mon-Fri 10am-3pm; Tue and Thu 6pm-9pm)
Email: helpline@sands.org.uk
National charity providing accredited midwife-led pregnancy health information for parents-to-be. Also providing support for anyone who has experienced the loss of a baby, whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, or termination for medical reasons.
For advice from a Tommy's midwife:
Pregnancy line: 0800 014 7800 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)
Email: midwife@tommys.org
Association for Postnatal Illness
Providing support for all women who experience postnatal depression. Providing peer support services via phone and email.
Phone: 0207 386 0868 (Mon-Fri 10am-2pm)
Action on Postpartum Psychosis
National charity for women and families affected by postpartum psychosis, a severe mental illness which begins suddenly following childbirth. Offering a peer support service to women and families affected by postpartum psychosis, and raising awareness and supporting research into the condition.
Psychosis
The Hearing Voices Network is committed to helping people who hear voices, see visions and experience tactical sensations and those that support them. They run a range of self-help groups and deliver training for professionals and the general public.
Action on Postpartum Psychosis
National charity for women and families affected by postpartum psychosis, a severe mental illness which begins suddenly following childbirth. Offering a peer support service to women and families affected by postpartum psychosis, and raising awareness and supporting research into the condition.
National charity offering information and support to people with bipolar, their families and carers, through a Peer Support Line, support groups and an eCommunity.
Email: info@bipolaruk.org
PTSD
Provides counselling for former armed forces, reservists and families. Coordinates a network of 200 accredited therapists with a focus on military PTSD.
Helpline: 0300 302 0551 (weekdays 9am-5pm)
Email: contact@ptsdresolution.org
Charity offering a range of free support services to residents of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire who have been affected by fatal road collisions.
Phone: 01234 843345 (Mon-Fri 8.30am-4.30pm excluding bank holidays)
Charity providing specialist treatment and support for veterans from every service and conflict, focusing on those with complex mental health issues related to their military service.
24-hour Helpline: 0800 138 1619
Self harm
Primary Care Mental Health Service - Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust (CPFT)
LOCAL; GP REFERRAL
The Primary Care Mental Health Service is a service that covers all surgeries in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. The service provides specialist mental health support for GP surgeries so that patients with mental ill health can access prompt advice and support, receive help in a community setting and experience a more joined-up approach to care.
LOCAL; YOUNG PEOPLE
Mental health and emotional wellbeing service for children and young people with mild to moderate mental health difficulties, such as anxiety and low mood, as well as those with significant emotional wellbeing difficulties arising from life event, such as bereavement and bullying. Referrals in Cambridgeshire up to the age of 25.
Phone: 0330 0581 659 (Cambridgeshire)
A free app providing support and strategies to help you resist or manage the urge to self-harm. Can be downloaded from Google Play or App Store
Sexual and domestic abuse
The children's charity dedicated to ending child abuse and child cruelty. Runs Childline and a dedicated helpline for adults concerned that a child might be at risk of abuse.
Phone: 0808 800 5000 (freephone 24/7 - for adults concerned about a child)
Childline: 0800 1111 (help for children and young people)
Charity that supports people who have experienced child sexual abuse through long-term low cost therapy (one to one and in groups), advocacy, and through education and workshops.
National charity supporting women and girls who have experienced rape, child sexual abuse and/or any other kind of sexual violence. It runs local Rape Crisis helplines and centres across England and Wales.
Helpline: 0808 802 9999 (everyday 12 midday-2.30pm and 7pm to 9.30pm)
Provide help and information about domestic violence. Refuge runs a 24/7 domestic violence helpline in partnership with Women's Aid, as well as a number of safe houses for women and children escaping domestic violence as well as other services.
Phone: 0808 2000 247 (freephone 24/7, 7 days a week)
Provides help and support for boys (13+) and men who have experienced sexual violence or abuse. This includes counselling and online and SMS chat support services run by professionals who specialise in the field of male sexual violence.
A grassroots federation working together to provide life-saving services and build a future where domestic violence is not tolerated. Support and advice available via their website.
LOCAL
Offer a confidential counselling service in Cambridge and surrounding areas for women and men whose lives are affected by childhood sexual abuse. Counselling sessions are available in Cambridge, Ely, Newmarket, Huntingdon, March, Wisbech and Peterborough.
Phone: 01223 358149 (Mon, Tue, Thu 9.30am,-3.30pm; Wed 9.30am-5.30pm)
Email: admin@choicescounselling.co.uk
Website and helpline providing a national specialist faith and culturally sensitive service that is confidential and non-judgemental, and offers information, support, guidance and referrals to Asian and Muslim women and girls from diverse ethnic/faith backgrounds who are suffering from or at risk of abuse or facing problems on a range of issues.
Helpline: 0800 999 5786 (freephone Mon-Fri 10am-4pm)
Email: info@mwnhelpline.co.uk
Text: 07415 206 936
Helpline for male victims of domestic abuse. Phone, email and webchat support available.
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Offering free specialist support to women and girls across Cambridgeshire who have been impacted by rape and sexual violence, no matter when that abuse happened. Providing emotional support, counselling, advocacy support and advice.
Helpline: 01223 245888 (Wed 7pm-9.30pm; Thu 7pm-9.30pm; Sun 10am-12.30pm)
Cambridge and Peterborough Rape Crisis Partnership
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Partnership between Cambridge Rape Crisis Centre and Peterborough Rape Crisis Centre, delivering a range of specialist support services to survivors of rape and sexual abuse across the region. Services includes Independent Sexual Violence Advocates (ISVAs); counselling service; empowerment service; NHS talking therapies; and helpline and email support. Services vary by age and gender - please see website for details.
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Sexual Assault Referral Centre, offering free support and practical help to anyone in Cambridgeshire who has experienced sexual violence and/or sexual abuse. Based at Hinchingbrooke Hospital.
Phone: 01480 425003 (weekdays 9am-5pm)
Helpline: 0800 193 5434 (out-of-hours 24/7 freephone)
Email: theelms.sarc@nhs.net
Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Partnership
LOCAL
Cambridgeshire partnership made up of key agencies in the county that have a role in preventing domestic abuse and sexual violence, and providing services and support to survivors.
International Domestic Violence Resource Guide
INTERNATIONAL
Web page with links to worldwide domestic violence hotlines and resources.
Suicide
If you need immediate help, please call emergency services on 999 or the Samaritans on 116 123
Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. Call free 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, on 116 123.
YOUNG PEOPLE
Contact Papyrus for confidential suicide prevention advice if you, or a young person you know, is having suicidal thoughts.
Helpline: 0800 068 4141 (365 days a year, 9am-midnight)
Text: 07860 039 967
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
Charity leading a movement against suicide. Helpline available for anyone in the UK who is feeling down or has hit a wall for any reason, who need to talk or find information and support.
Helpline: 0800 58 58 58 (5pm-midnight, 365 days a year)
Webchat (5pm-midnight, 365 days a year)
Free, confidential, anonymous crisis text support service. If you are struggling to cope and need to talk, trained Shout volunteers are available 24/7. Get help with issues including depression, anxiety, abuse, panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, relationship problems, bullying.
Text 'shout' to 85258
LOCAL; CAMPAIGN
Suicide prevention campaign that seeks to empower communities and individuals across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough to help stop suicides by being alert to the warning signs, asking directly about suicide and helping those who are feeling suicidal to stay safe. Get involved and pledge your voice as an individual or organisation to STOP Suicide.
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide
Supports those bereaved by suicide through a helpline, email and self-help groups. For those aged 18+
Helpline: 0300 111 5065 (9am-9pm everyday)
Help is at Hand - Support after Suicide Partnership
A booklet specifically written for those bereaved by suicide by those who have also been affected by suicide. The booklet gives practical information as well as details of further support.
Suicide Bereavement Support Service - Lifecraft
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
This service aims to ensure information and access to support is available to those bereaved by suicide. This serice is available to family and friends in the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough area.
Suicide Bereavement Support Group - CPFT
LOCAL; SELF-REFER
Monthly support group meetings held in Peterborough for Cambridgeshire residents bereaved by suicide. Please see link for further details - please contact them before attending for the first time.
LOCAL
A mental health and wellbeing helpline for people aged 18+ living in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Lifeline provides listening support and information to someone experiencing mental distress or if you are supporting someone in distress.
Helpline: 0808 808 2121 (everyday 11am-11pm; freephone)
CAMPAIGN
A collaboration of NHS trusts, charities, businesses and individuals committed to suicide prevention in the UK and beyond. Provide FREE suicide prevention training which is accessible to all, aiming to enable people to identify when someone is presenting with suicidal thoughts/behaviour, to be able to speak out in a supportive manner, and to empower them to signpost the individual to the correct services or support. Access the FREE training via their website.
Young people
LOCAL; YOUNG PEOPLE
Centre 33 exists to help every young person in Cambridgeshire up to the age of 25 fulfil their potential and overcome problems through a range of free and confidential services - including housing, sexual health, mental health, family problems and bullying.
Helpline: 0333 4141809
Email: help@centre33.org.uk
Centre 33 - Young Carers Project
LOCAL; YOUNG PEOPLE
The Centre 33 Young Carers Project works with young carers up to the age of 19 in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. They can help in lots of different ways including offering a Young Carers Needs Assessment; giving you someone to talk to; helping you meet other young carers in the same situation as you; and supporting you with life transitions like starting a new school.
Phone: 0333 414809
Text/WhatsApp: 07514 783745
Email: youngcarers@centre33.org.uk
Free, confidential, anonymous crisis text support service provided by trained volunteers. Available 24/7 for support across the UK if you need help with urgent issues such as suicidal thoughts, abuse or assault, self-harm, bullying, or relationship issues.
Text 'YM' to 85258
LOCAL; YOUNG PEOPLE; SELF REFER
Confidential and anonymous online service for young people. Once signed up, Kooth users have access to BACP trained counsellors, peer-to-peer support through moderated forums, and a range of self-help materials, co-written by other young people, Any young person aged 11-18 with a Cambridgeshire or Peterborough postcode can access the service for free.
LOCAL; YOUNG PEOPLE
Website for 11-19 year olds in Cambridgeshire, packed with information about life, work and learning. If you are 16-18 and vulnerable/at risk of harm or not in education, employment or training, you can access Youth Support Centres - if you can't get to a centre, just phone the one closest to you and you will be put in touch with a worker you can get to.
YOUNG PEOPLE
National drug education service providing information on legal and illegal drugs for teenagers and adolescents.
YOUNG PEOPLE
Contact Papyrus for confidential suicide prevention advice if you, or a young person you know, is having suicidal thoughts.
Helpline: 0800 068 4141 (365 days a year, 9am-midnight)
Text: 07860 039 967
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
LOCAL; YOUNG PEOPLE
Promoting the health, wellbeing and inclusion of LGBTQ+ young people across Cambridgeshire; providing free one-to-one support for LGBTQ+ young people up to the age of 25; free LGBTQ+ social groups; residentials; community care; a library of articles and resources, and a podcast. Contact The Kite Trust via their website, phone or email.
Phone: 01223 369508
Email: info@thekitetrust.org.uk
APP
A free app providing support and strategies to help you resist or manage the urge to self-harm. Can be downloaded from Google Play or App Store
APP; YOUNG PEOPLE
A free app for teenagers (11+) providing resources and a fully-moderated community where you can share your problems, get support and help other people too. Can be downloaded from Google Play or App Store.
YOUNG PEOPLE
If you're under 19 you can confidentially call, chat online or email about any problem big or small.
Sign up for a free Childline locker (real name or email address not needed) to use their free 1-2-1 counsellor chat and email support service (counsellor chat available every day 7.30am-3.30am).
Can provide a BSL interpreter if you are deaf or hearing impaired using SignVideo.
Hosts online message boards where you can share your experiences, have fun and get support from other young people in similar situations.
Phone: 0800 1111 (9am-midnight, 365 days a year)
LOCAL, ALL AGES
Carer support service and replacement care service supporting carers of all ages across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Norfolk. They also offer flexible, professional homecare services to adults and children with a range of disabilities and health conditions.
Phone: 0345 241 0954 or 01480 499090
Email: hello@caringtogether.org
Time to Change - young campaigners
Anti-stigma campaign Time to Change has a dedicated website section for young people wanting to start a campaign to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing in their school or community. The website features a range of guides with activities to get you started, and downloadable materials.
LOCAL
Local charity at the heart of community transformation in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk for over 150 years. Supporting young people and their families through difficult times with a wide range of programmes and services. They have developed support and advice schemes including youth engagement programmes, youth offending projects, mental health interventions, domestic violence and crisis support.