Useful links and contacts
National Support for Mental Health
​If you're struggling and need someone to talk to, there are several organisations available to offer help:
Samaritans – A free, 24/7 listening service for anyone in emotional distress: www.samaritans.org | Call 116 123
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SANEline – Offers support and information for people affected by mental illness: www.sane.org.uk | Call 0300 304 7000
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Mind – Provides advice and support for mental health challenges: www.mind.org.uk | Call 0300 123 3393
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If you are over 18 and registered with a GP in England, you can self-refer to your local NHS talking therapy service through the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) initiative: Find a service here
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For concerns around a child's mental wellbeing, it’s best to speak with their GP or school in the first instance—unless there is an immediate risk.
Other Helpful Services
National Domestic Abuse Helpline – 24-hour support for those affected by domestic abuse: www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk | Call 0808 200 0247
Childline – Free support for children and young people: www.childline.org.uk | Call 0800 1111
National Debtline – Confidential debt advice: www.nationaldebtline.org | Call 0808 808 4000
Family Lives – Guidance and support for parents and families: www.familylives.org.uk | Call 0808 800 2222
Citizens Advice – Independent help on legal, financial, and housing matters: www.citizensadvice.org.uk | Call 0344 411 1444
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Mental Health Support in Dorset
Dorset Healthcare Mental Health Services – www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk | Call 0800 652 0190
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Steps 2 Wellbeing – Offers psychological therapy and wellbeing services in Dorset and Southampton: www.steps2wellbeing.co.uk | Call 0800 484 0500
Professional Bodies and Resources
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) – www.hcpc-uk.org
Association of Clinical Psychologists UK – www.acpuk.org.uk
British Psychological Society (BPS) – www.bps.org.uk
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) – www.nice.org.uk
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In a Crisis or Emergency
If you're experiencing a mental health crisis, are feeling overwhelmed, or are at risk of harming yourself, you can:
Call your GP and request an urgent appointment
Speak to Samaritans at 116 123
Call 999 or visit your nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E)
In Dorset, you can also contact Connections on 0800 652 0190 for urgent mental health support
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