Simple Signposting to Better Health and Wellbeing
Norfolk
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
- Compare different electricity/gas deals by using a OFGEM 'Confidence Code Accreditation' price comparison service
- The Citizen Advice Guide has a useful guide on 'How to Compare Energy Tariffs'
- You can get help and impartial independent advice on how you could benefit from heating and insulation measures on the Simple Energy Advice website Simple Energy Advice
- Your energy supplier may provide a service called the 'Warm Home Discount scheme' which pays £140 either to your electricity account or vouchers to top up your electricity meter. You will need to contact your electricity supplier to see if you meet their eligibility criteria
- People aged 60 or over, disabled people or those who suffer from a chronic illness, are entitled to a range of services, by signing up for free to their energy suppliers Priority Service Register. The Priority Service Register has also been recently extended to include:
- Customers with certain mental health conditions which impact on them understanding their bill
- Customers who cannot top up their pre-payment meter due to injury
- Temporary circumstances where a customer needs extra support for a limited amount of time
- Details of how to join can be found on the reverse of your energy bill
- If you don't know who your current gas and electricity supplier is, this can be checked by contacting:
- For Gas - Meter Point Reference Line - 0870 6081524
- For Electricity - UK Power Networks
- If you are experiencing difficulties paying your gas/or electricity bill or have an energy debt then you should contact your supplier in the first instance. Other impartial advice is available from the National debtline 0808 808 4000 or from the StepChange debt Charity 0800 138 1111.
- Customers with certain mental health conditions which impact on them understanding their bill
- Customers who cannot top up their pre-payment meter due to injury
- Temporary circumstances where a customer needs extra support for a limited amount of time
- Details of how to join can be found on the reverse of your energy bill
- For Gas - Meter Point Reference Line - 0870 6081524
- For Electricity - UK Power Networks
Preparing for Colder Weather
- From keeping your house warm to protecting yourself from common ailments, find out how to stay healthy this winter on NHS Choices.
Local Support Services
Norfolk Community Foundation
Reflecting on the second year of our Community Hot-Spots, it’s clear just how vital these spaces have become for the people of Norfolk. Last winter alone, more than 2,000 individuals visited our 110 warm spaces each week. For nearly 70% of them, the primary reason wasn’t just to escape the cold—it was to find connection and combat loneliness.
Website: Community Hot-Spots | Norfolk Community Foundation
Email: 01603 623 958
Telephone: shinebrighter@norfolkfoundation
Offer: Norfolk
Warm Welcome
“We have over 3000 registered organisations that have opened or are opening up free, warm, welcoming spaces for the public over this winter across the UK. Please use this map to find one.”
Website: https://www.warmwelcome.uk/
Email: Not direct
Telephone: Not direct
Offer: National
Warm Homes Suffolk
“Living in a cold, damp or mouldy home is bad for our health and has been linked to heart and lung conditions as well as poor mental health and increased chance of falls.
Warm Homes Suffolk wants to help the people of Suffolk live in homes that cost less to heat, so they can reduce their energy usage, enjoy lower bills and prevent unnecessary ill health.”
Website: Warm Homes Suffolk
Email: Contact — Warm Homes Suffolk (No direct email)
Telephone: 03456 037 686
Offer: Waveney
Norwich City Council Warm and Well Spaces
“We are introducing a discretionary rebate scheme to provide support for residents struggling with energy bills.
The majority of this discretionary fund will automatically be paid to eligible households, with some additional money available that must be applied for.”
Website: Warm and well spaces | Warm and well spaces | Norwich City Council
Email: None direct
Telephone: 0344 980 3333 (general number)
Offer: Norwich
East Suffolk Council – Fuel and Energy Schemes
“A complete list of available support is below. Please take the time to read it and use the links to the support you need.
If you, or someone you know, need help with accessing advice and support with the cost of living, please complete our online cost of living form. Please note that we aim to respond to your contact within 5 working days”
Website: https://www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/community/squeeze/i-need-help/fuel-and-energy/
Email: whhp@eastsuffolk.gov.uk
Telephone: 03456 037 686
Offer: Waveney
Warm and Well – Norfolk and Waveney ICS
“On these pages, you can find information and resources to help you prepare for winter and help prevent health problems from developing. You’ll also have the confidence to know how best to deal with any illnesses if you or someone in your family does fall ill.
Click on the links below to find information about local health services, the wide range of hardship support available, and get top tips to keep yourself healthy, warm and well this winter.”
Website: https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/our-work/our-campaigns/warm-and-well/
Email: nwcib.contactus@nhs.net
Telephone: None direct
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
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/
Email: None direct
Telephone: 0800 098 7950 (England)
Offer: National
Better Housing Better Health
Better Housing Better Health are here to help keep residents warm and well at home and improve the energy efficiency of their homes. In a preventative approach to health and wellbeing, our service provides residents with a single point of contact to get impartial expert advice to help improve the energy efficiency of their home, save money and improve comfort.
To help achieve our mission of tackling fuel poverty and creating healthier homes, we’re extending our warmth and wellbeing service into Dacorum, Central Bedfordshire and Luton after securing funding from the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme.
To request an assessment contact online or the contact number below.
Website: https://www.bhbh.org.uk/
Email: bhbh@nef.org.uk
Telephone: 0800 107 0044
Offer: National
Norfolk Warm Homes
“By working to improve the energy-efficiency of the homes with the lowest EPC ratings of E, F and G, we are helping some of the most vulnerable people in Norfolk reduce their energy bills and their carbon footprint. We take a ‘whole home’ approach, first installing insulation and then potentially other measures including energy efficient air source heat pumps, depending on the suitability of your property.
We also provide expert advice and support to improve people’s energy efficiency, helping people to live in a warmer home and reduce energy usage. Less energy used means a smaller energy bill, and reduces the county’s carbon footprint, helping to achieve the UK’s commitment to net zero by 2050.”
Website: https://norfolkwarmhomes.org.uk/
Email: warmhomes@southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk
Telephone: 01603 430 103
Offer: Norfolk
Page Updated 01/05/2025
Review date: 01/05/2026
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
Ready to Change – Get help with alcohol dependency
If you're not sure whether you're drinking too much alcohol, or if you want to change your drinking, the step-by-step guidance below will help you.
Website: Help to drink less - Norfolk County Council
Email: readytochange@norfolk.gov.uk
Telephone: None direct
Offer: Norfolk
The Matthew Project
Empowering people to overcome issues with drugs, alcohol, and mental health.
Website: Drug and alcohol recovery | The Matthew Project | England
Email: hello@matthewproject.org
Telephone: 01603 626 123
Offer: Norfolk
Better Health – Drink Less
“Cutting back on the booze can be a really effective way to improve your health, boost your energy, lose weight and save money.
Any reduction in the amount you drink every week will be beneficial – and with the right help, it's easier than you think.
We have some simple tips and tools to help you start cutting down today. Let's do this!”
Website: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/drink-less/
Email: None direct
Telephone: None direct
Offer: National
Norfolk Alcohol and Drug Behaviour Change Service
“We can help you break free from harmful patterns of behaviour and feel happier and healthier. We tailor the drug and alcohol support we offer to fit your needs. Whether it's one to one working or group sessions, we will help you work towards your goals. We want you to unlock your full potential.
Our services include medical treatment. This might include substitute prescribing or medication that helps prevent relapse.”
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/alcohol-drug-behaviour-change-norfolk
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
Just One Norfolk
“Most parents who occasionally use alcohol and drugs will do so responsibly in a way that does not impact on their children. Making sure that their children are cared for safely and that they are not at risk of harm.
For some children their parent’s misuse of drugs and alcohol will put them at risk physically and/or emotionally. Some of the damage can affect them for the rest of their lives.
Parents who recognise that their drug and/or alcohol use could be harming their loved ones can access support and advice to manage this. Getting the right help at the right time can help the whole family.”
Website: Parental Drug and Alcohol Misuse
Email: None direct
Telephone: 0300 300 0123
Offer: Norfolk
MAP Norfolk
Lots of young people try drugs and have a range of good and bad experiences. You can get information and support from us on reducing risks or knowing what to do in an emergency. You can also get advice from us on your legal rights, or help understanding what drugs you are taking and what their effects might be.
Website: Drugs & Alcohol | MAP Norfolk
Email: advice@map.uk.net
Telephone: 0800 074 454
Offer: Norfolk
Page Updated 01/05/2025
Review date: 01/05/2026
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
Bereavement Support – Norfolk County Council
“When you lose someone close to you, you might feel many different things. Grief and mourning are a normal part of bereavement.
This information will help you to find support if you have lost someone or if you are helping someone else cope with a bereavement."
Website: https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/births-ceremonies-and-deaths/deaths/bereavement-support
Email: None direct
Telephone: None direct
Offer: Norfolk
Rosedale Funeral Home
Grief is a normal response to loss. It can be painful, time consuming and exhausting and people react to it in different ways. Shock, anger, disbelief, guilt, regret, numbness and loneliness are just some emotions that most people feel.
Please browse the sections below to find out about our regular bereavement support groups and what we can offer as part of our aftercare including our annual Walks and Services of Remembrance.
Website: Grief & Loss - Rosedale Funeral Home
Email: Various homes
Telephone: Various homes
Offer: Norfolk
Cruse Bereavement Support
Cruse Bereavement Support has been helping people who are struggling with grief and bereavement for over 60 years.
Website: https://www.cruse.org.uk/
Email: None direct
Telephone: 0808 808 1677
Offer: National
Nelson’s Journey
“Since 1997, Nelson’s Journey has been supporting children and young people in Norfolk with their bereavement needs, helping to them to understand and cope with their feelings. The charity also supports professionals in the county who work with children, such as teachers and health workers, to help raise awareness of issues affecting bereaved children.”
Website: https://nelsonsjourney.org.uk/
Email: enquiries@nelsonsjourney.org.uk
Telephone: 01603 431 788
Offer: Norfolk
The Silver Line
“The Silver Line Helpline is a free, confidential telephone service just for older people.
Providing friendship, conversation and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Website: https://www.thesilverline.org.uk/
Email: None direct
Telephone: 0800 470 8090
Offer: National
Angels and Rainbows
“Angels and Rainbows is a pregnancy and baby loss support group based in Lowestoft, Suffolk supporting families in Norfolk and Suffolk”
Website: https://www.angelsandrainbowssupport.co.uk/
Email: angelsandrainbowsgroup@gmail.com (Or website form)
Telephone: None direct
Offer: Norfolk and Suffolk
Support After Suicide Partnership
“The Support After Suicide Partnership is a UK wide network of over 70 members and supporters. We were founded in 2013 to bring together national and local organisations that are involved in delivering suicide bereavement support across the UK and to address the need for formal, multi-agency, proactive suicide bereavement support.”
Website: https://supportaftersuicide.org.uk/
Email: None direct (has a directory of other support: Members – Support After Suicide )
Telephone: None direct
Offer: National
Let’s Talk About Loss
“Let’s Talk About Loss supports young people aged 18-35 who are bereaved. Whoever you’ve lost, we are a safe space to talk about that loss in a fun, relaxed environment.”
“If you’re aged 18-35, have been bereaved, and live in Norwich, you can join our Facebook group for people who have been to, or are wanting to come to, a meet up. It’s a safe space only for those who have been bereaved, and you’ll be able to find out all the latest information about the meet ups.”
Website: https://letstalkaboutloss.org/
https://letstalkaboutloss.org/meet-up/meet-up-in-the-midlands/meet-up-in-norwich/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2776348249079381
Email: None direct - website contact form: CONTACT US - Let's Talk About Loss
Telephone: None direct
Offer: National with Norwich Group
Updated: 01/05/2025
Review Date: 01/05/2026
Self-care and National Support Services
National Support
Carers Trust
Carers Trust works to transform the lives of unpaid carers.
It partners with its network of local carer organisations to provide funding and support, deliver innovative and evidence-based programmes and raise awareness and influence policy. Carers Trust’s vision is that unpaid carers are heard and valued, with access to support, advice and resources to enable them to live fulfilled lives.
On the website you will find a search tab to look up any local support services in your local area
Website: Homepage - Carers Trust
NHS - Support and Benefits for Carers
Includes carer's assessments, support from local councils, respite care and help for young carers.
See if you can get support from your council, such as extra money or a break from caring.
How you can take a break from caring for someone else.
Financial support for people who care for others.
If you are aged 13-19 and you care for someone else there are people who can support you.
If you are 18 or under and you care for someone you are entitled to help and support.
Carers UK
Looking after someone can be tough, but you’re not on your own. Carers UK is here to listen, to give you expert information and advice that’s tailored to your situation, to champion your rights and support you in finding new ways to manage at home, at work, or wherever you are.
We give expert advice, information and support.
Caring can be extremely complicated. The maze of rights and entitlements can be complicated. Filling in paperwork can be complicated. Getting a break can be complicated. Our feelings about caring can certainly be complicated.
We're here to make sure that no matter how complicated your query or your experience, you don't have to care alone.
Our expert telephone advice and support service is here if you want to talk about caring. If you're looking for answers, our online information and support is the best place to start.
We connect carers so no-one has to care alone.
Every day 6,000 people become carers. It can be bewildering if you don't know where to turn for help and support.
Through our carers' groups and volunteers we're reaching out in local communities throughout the UK and online.
If you're new to caring, we want to make sure you get the right support from the start.
Website: Home - Carers UK
Local Support Services
Norfolk Millennium Trust for Carers
“The Norfolk Millennium Trust for Carers aims to offer unpaid carers a better quality of life by giving grants towards short breaks, recreational items, hobbies or leisure activities.”
Email: corriecolson@norfolkfoundation.com
Telephone: 01603 623 958
Offer: Norfolk
Carers Matter Norfolk
“Being a carer can be both challenging and rewarding. Sometimes you might want just a little bit of support in your caring role, some information & advice or to become involved by having your say in carers services. Our team of Advisors and Family Carer Practitioners are here to help you.”
Website: https://carersmatternorfolk.org.uk/
Additional: https://carersmatternorfolk.org.uk/groups/
Email: info@carersmatternorfolk.org.uk
Telephone: 0800 083 1148
Offer: Norfolk
Carers Voice
“As a Carer, you are an ‘expert’ through your lived experience of caring and you should be able to have a say in services, policies and decisions that affect you and the people that you care for. At Carers Voice, we are here to give unpaid Carers a voice in the way their services in Norfolk and Waveney are designed, developed and delivered.”
Website: https://www.carersvoice.org/
Email: info@carersvoice.org
Telephone: 07932 095 260
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
Caring Together
“Caring Together is a leading charity supporting carers of all ages across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Norfolk. We provide information and advice, run services in our local communities and campaign so that carers have choices.”
Website: https://www.caringtogether.org/
Email: hello@caringtogether.org
Telephone: 0345 241 0954
Offer: Norfolk
GYGYC
“GYGYC provides a seamless service for young carers (YC 5 -17) and Young Adult Carers (YAC 18 to 21) in the Borough of Great Yarmouth. We offer age specific Peer Groups, a one to one mentoring scheme and small groups in schools and colleges across the Borough. Currently due to the Covid-19 pandemic we are offering an online service. Our service is offered to young people aged 5 to 21 who are affected by their families situations either due to them caring for another member of their family, or are affected by the home situations due to missing out of the normal activities as they go through the transition from children to adults.”
Website: https://gygyc.co.uk/
Email: info@gygyc.org.uk
Telephone: 01493 650 056 or 07925 851 849
Offer: Great Yarmouth
Young Carers Matter Norfolk
“The Young Carers & Families Service is a partnership of voluntary sector organisations specialising in supporting carers and young people. Together we are able to provide support to young carers and their families across Norfolk. We have a team of Triage & Assessment Workers and Family Care Practitioners who work with families to ensure the right support is put in place to remove or reduce the caring the young carer provides. Across Norfolk we work with our partners Youth Workers and Young Carer Support Worker to provide:
- 1:1 and group support
- fun activities
- the opportunity to meet other young carers
- learn new skills
- wellbeing sessions
The service is commissioned and funded by Norfolk County Council and managed by Voluntary Norfolk.
Website: https://www.youngcarersmatternorfolk.org/
Email: None direct, via online form: Make A Referral - Young Carers | Carers Matter
Telephone: 0800 083 1148
Offer: Norfolk
Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System – Carers in Norfolk and Waveney
“Unpaid Carers of all ages play a vital role in keeping people safe and well at home who would otherwise need ongoing care from local services. Local and national data consistently shows that caring can have a significant negative impact on Carers’ own health and wellbeing. You can learn more about how we work with Carers here. Read on to see what support and information is available in Norfolk and Waveney.”
Website: https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/our-work/healthier-communities/carers-support/
Email: None direct - online directory
Telephone: None direct - online directory
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
Updated: 01/05/2025
Review Date: 01/05/2026
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 Resources – Norfolk County Council
“The term dementia refers to a group of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with planning, problem-solving or language.
What to do if you are worried about someone: See the recommended websites below to find out about diagnosis, help for people with dementia and their families or carers, and treatments which may lessen the symptoms.”
Website: https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/care-support-and-health/health-and-wellbeing/adults-health/dementia
Email: None direct
Telephone: None direct
Offer: Norfolk
Forget me Not Grant (to support people living with Dementia)
Several district councils offer Forget Me Not Grants to support those living with dementia. This can be up to £500 to assist people living with dementia to maintain a safe, decent and warm home, and to help reassure those who care for them and to promote independence and support people living with Dementia in the community.
Please contact your district council for more details to check if they still provide this grant.
These two district councils offer the grant:
Website: Forget-Me-Not grant | Broadland and South Norfolk (Broadland and South Norfolk)
Email: hstandards.bdc@southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk
Email: hstandards.snc@southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk
Telephone: 01603 431 133 (Broadland)
Telephone: 01508 533 701 (South Norfolk)
Website: Home | Apply for a Forget Me Not Grant (North Norfolk)
Email: None direct, via online form: Contact Us : Make an enquiry about a Council service
Telephone: 01263 513 811
Offer: Respective district boundaries
Dementia UK
“These grants are available for anyone living in Norwich who has been diagnosed with dementia and is still living in their own home.
The scheme will provide a grant of up to £2,500 for minor adaptations designed to help the individual, and their carers, cope with the challenges of living with the condition. We will ask for a letter from your GP or specialist confirming that dementia has been diagnosed.”
Website: Information and support - Dementia UK
Email: info@dementiauk.org
Telephone: 0208 036 5400
Offer: National
Caring Together Charity
We provide homecare services and support for unpaid carers across North and East Norfolk including Great Yarmouth, Gorleston and North Walsham. Find out about our range of support for unpaid carers and the people they look after who live in North and East Norfolk.
Email: hello@caringtogether.org
Telephone 0345 241 0954
Offer: North Norfolk and East Norfolk
Alzheimer's Society
Have you recently been diagnosed with dementia? Get your copy of the latest version of our dementia guide. It has lots of tips and advice to help you live well with dementia and keeping doing the activities that you enjoy.
Website: The dementia guide: Living well after your diagnosis | Alzheimer's Society
Email: None direct, online form: Contact us - general enquiries | Alzheimer's Society
Telephone: 0333 150 3456
Offer: National
Updated: 01/05/2025
Review Date: 01/05/2026
Self-care and National Support Services
Act
NATIONAL SERVICES
Refuge
Providing advice and support for women and children, against domestic violence. If you are seeking immediate support, call the free Helpline. Messages sent through the website will be responded to within 48 hours, messages won’t leave any trace on emails and the helpline team won’t leave voicemails when calling back for safety reasons.
Domestic Abuse helpline Tel: 0808 2000 247 – Open 24 hours a day
Website: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Contact-us
Chatline: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Chat-to-us-online
Website: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Contact-us
Women's Aid
A national charity working to end domestic abuse against women and children. A federation of over 180 organisations providing just under 300 services across England. They provide online help and support to women and children suffering domestic abuses, help to access refuge accommodation, outreach services and Independent domestic violence advocacy (IDVA).
Tel: 0808 2000 247 – 24 hour Domestic Abuse helpline or call 01709 336009
Website: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/
Technology Safety - A Toolkit for Survivors
Resources on this website explore technology in the context of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and violence against women. To talk to someone who can answer your questions and support you, call the National Domestic Abuse helpline. Information includes:
- Safety tips, information, and privacy strategies for survivors on the use of technology
- Spyware and Stalkerware information
- Smartphones - Increasing privacy & responding to abuse
- Tips on being webwise when sharing personal information online
Website: https://www.techsafety.org/resources-survivors
The Men's Advice Line
Men’s Advice Line is a confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse and those supporting them. The service offers advice and emotional support to men who experience abuse, and signpost to other vital services that help keep them and their children safe. Your call will not appear on itemised bills.
Tel: 0808 801 0327 (run by Respect) Mon–Fri 9am-8pm
Email: info@mensadviceline.org.uk
Website: https://mensadviceline.org.uk/male-victims/
National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline
The helpline team has extensive experience in supporting LGBT+ people who are victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, hate crime, so-called conversion therapies, honour-based abuse, forced marriage, and other forms of abuse. Professionals can also contact this number for advice.
Tel: 0800 999 5428 (run by Galop) Mon to Fri 10am – 5pm, Weds and Thurs 10am – 8:00pm
Email: help@galop.org.uk
Website: https://galop.org.uk/get-help/helplines/
Rights of Women - Helping women through the law
Free telephone advice line providing women with legal advice and information on a wide range of legal issues including domestic violence, child contact, sexual violence and the criminal justice process and immigration and asylum as well as other legal issues arising from relationship breakdown.
Tel: 020 7251 8887 Tues 2pm – 4pm and 7pm – 9pm, Thurs 2pm – 4pm, Fri 10am – 12pm. The line is closed on Bank holidays.
Email: info@row.org.uk
Web: https://rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-advice/advice-lines/
National Helpline for men wanting to change
For men worried about their behaviours and relationships and who want to take steps to change. Providing perpetrator support and helping men to become safe around their partners and children.
Tel: 0808 8024040 Mon–Fri 9am-8pm
Website: www.respectphoneline.org.uk
Act
NATIONAL SERVICES
Refuge
Providing advice and support for women and children, against domestic violence. If you are seeking immediate support, call the free Helpline. Messages sent through the website will be responded to within 48 hours, messages won’t leave any trace on emails and the helpline team won’t leave voicemails when calling back for safety reasons.
Domestic Abuse helpline Tel: 0808 2000 247 – Open 24 hours a day
Website: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Contact-us
Chatline: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Chat-to-us-online
Website: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/en/Contact-us
Women's Aid
A national charity working to end domestic abuse against women and children. A federation of over 180 organisations providing just under 300 services across England. They provide online help and support to women and children suffering domestic abuses, help to access refuge accommodation, outreach services and Independent domestic violence advocacy (IDVA).
Tel: 0808 2000 247 – 24 hour Domestic Abuse helpline or call 01709 336009
Website: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/
Technology Safety - A Toolkit for Survivors
Resources on this website explore technology in the context of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and violence against women. To talk to someone who can answer your questions and support you, call the National Domestic Abuse helpline. Information includes:
- Safety tips, information, and privacy strategies for survivors on the use of technology
- Spyware and Stalkerware information
- Smartphones - Increasing privacy & responding to abuse
- Tips on being webwise when sharing personal information online
Website: https://www.techsafety.org/resources-survivors
The Men's Advice Line
Men’s Advice Line is a confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse and those supporting them. The service offers advice and emotional support to men who experience abuse, and signpost to other vital services that help keep them and their children safe. Your call will not appear on itemised bills.
Tel: 0808 801 0327 (run by Respect) Mon–Fri 9am-8pm
Email: info@mensadviceline.org.uk
Website: https://mensadviceline.org.uk/male-victims/
National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline
The helpline team has extensive experience in supporting LGBT+ people who are victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, hate crime, so-called conversion therapies, honour-based abuse, forced marriage, and other forms of abuse. Professionals can also contact this number for advice.
Tel: 0800 999 5428 (run by Galop) Mon to Fri 10am – 5pm, Weds and Thurs 10am – 8:00pm
Email: help@galop.org.uk
Website: https://galop.org.uk/get-help/helplines/
Rights of Women - Helping women through the law
Free telephone advice line providing women with legal advice and information on a wide range of legal issues including domestic violence, child contact, sexual violence and the criminal justice process and immigration and asylum as well as other legal issues arising from relationship breakdown.
Tel: 020 7251 8887 Tues 2pm – 4pm and 7pm – 9pm, Thurs 2pm – 4pm, Fri 10am – 12pm. The line is closed on Bank holidays.
Email: info@row.org.uk
Web: https://rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-advice/advice-lines/
National Helpline for men wanting to change
For men worried about their behaviours and relationships and who want to take steps to change. Providing perpetrator support and helping men to become safe around their partners and children.
Tel: 0808 8024040 Mon–Fri 9am-8pm
Website: www.respectphoneline.org.uk
Local Support Services
Norfolk County Council – How to get help
Domestic abuse mainly affects women, although men too can be victims of abuse. Domestic abuse can affect anyone regardless of their gender, sexuality, ethnicity, and age.
Website: https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/safety/domestic-abuse/how-to-get-help
Email: None direct, directory
Telephone: None direct
Offer: Norfolk
Leeway refuge services
Residential services including short term emergency accommodation. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, and 750,000 child incidents of domestic abuse are reported in the UK every year. It's our aim to provide free and confidential support to anyone experiencing domestic abuse.
Website: https://www.leewaysupport.org/
Email: adviceandsupport@leewaynwa.org.uk
Telephone: 24-hour telephone helpline – 0300 561 0077
Offer: Norfolk
Orwell refuge services (Haven Project)
Emergency accommodation for females in South Norfolk. Orwell Temporary Supported Housing services provide accommodation and support to people facing homelessness or people in or leaving abusive relationships, read more to find out what services are available in your area.
Email: info@orwell-housing.co.uk
Telephone: 0845 467 4876 / 0345 601 0030
Offer: National
NIDAS – Norfolk Integrated Domestic Abuse Services (medium and high risk support)
Direct support for medium and high risk cases across Norfolk. NIDAS stands for Norfolk Integrated Domestic Abuse Service and is a domestic abuse support service for those assessed to be at high or medium risk of harm. We also offer dedicated support for Children and Young People, recovery programmes, coordinated multi-agency support, court support, a Domestic Abuse Champion network, and training for professionals, across Norfolk
Home safety support for high risk victims
Website: https://nidasnorfolk.co.uk/
Email: referrals@nidasnorfolk.co.uk
Telephone: 0300 561 0555 (9am and 6:30pm on weekdays, between 9am and 3pm on weekends)
Text: 07860 063 464
Out of hours: 0808 2000 247
Offer: Norfolk
Norfolk and Suffolk Victim Care (standard risk)
Free, confidential support for anyone affected by crime in Norfolk & Suffolk. Telephone and face to face support for male and female victims. We have a dedicated, local team in Norfolk and in Suffolk who are here to help and to support you, providing you with the information that you need. We have offices in Norwich and Ipswich and the service is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Website: https://www.nsvictimcare.org/
Email: nsvictimcare@victimsupport.org.uk
Telephone: 0300 303 3706 (Norfolk and Suffolk Victim Care, 8am-5pm Monday-Friday)
National Helpline: 0808 1689 111 (24 hours)
Offer: Norfolk and Suffolk (and national)
Pandora Project (standard risk support North and West Norfolk)
Pandora Project is a specialist domestic abuse charity, passionate about making a difference.
We offer a free, confidential and non-judgemental service. Our dedicated team offers advice, support and information to women and children in West and North Norfolk. Whether you are currently living with an abusive partner or still dealing with the trauma of a past relationship, you are not alone.
We understand how complex and isolating domestic abuse can be and how hard it can be to ask for help. We’re here to listen, to believe you, and support you to make informed choices.
Website: https://www.pandoraproject.org.uk/
Email: info@pandoraproject.org.uk
Telephone: None direct, online webchat form: Contact Us | Pandora Project
Offer: West and North Norfolk
Daisy Programme (standard risk support Breckland and joint with NIDAS)
We are a registered charity supporting adults living with or who have been affected by Domestic Abuse in the Breckland area.
Since 2015 we have run programmes and support groups in various locations in Breckland.
If you are a professional, find out how we work and how to refer people to our services
Website: https://www.daisyprogramme.org.uk/
Email: help@daisyprogramme.org.uk
Telephone: 01953 880903
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
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
Norfolk
Falls Prevention – Active Norfolk
Building activities that maintain strength, balance and flexibility into your lifestyle can help to reduce your risk of falling.
As we age, adopting an active lifestyle that includes these kinds of activities, whether through exercise classes like yoga or hobbies such as gardening, will decrease the risk of a fall.
Our Falls Prevention home exercise programme is suitable for those who are at moderate to high risk of falling, who have had 1 or more falls in the last 3 months or have a high fear of falling. Read on to find out more about the programme or click the button below to jump straight to the videos.
Website: Falls Prevention - Activity and Health - Active Norfolk
Email: ellen.vanlint@activenorfolk.org (Falls Prevention Lead) and online contact form: Contact Us - Get In Touch - Active Norfolk
Telephone: 01603 228938
Offer: Norfolk (anyone can access)
Age UK Norwich
Falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injuries worldwide, claiming the lives of 684,000 individuals annually. Millions more experience severe falls requiring medical attention, with the risk increasing significantly with age. In fact, one in three adults over 60 and a staggering 50% of those over 80 suffer from falls. Locally, the impact is evident, as Norfolk saw 3,505 emergency admissions due to falls among individuals aged 65 and older in 2022-23 alone.
Website: Age UK Norwich | Falls Prevention and Awareness
Email: enquiries@ageuknorwich.org.uk
Telephone: 01603 496 333
Offer: Norwich (Some parts of Norfolk)
The Frailty Prevention Service
A specialised team within East Coast Community Healthcare, covering the Great Yarmouth and Waveney postcode areas. We work together as a team, using our collective experience and knowledge to provide the best support for you in clinics and at your home.
Referral is via your GP, a health or social care professional.
Website: Frailty Service | East Coast Community Healthcare (ecch.org)
Email: enquiry@ecchcic.nhs.uk
Telephone: 01502 445 445
Offer: Great Yarmouth and Waveney
Rapid Assessment Team and Frailty Team - West Norfolk
Providing rapid assessment to patients in west Norfolk who have been admitted to hospital but would prefer to remain within their own home.
The team, which includes an physiotherapist, occupational therapist, two specialist nurses, plus a technician, assess patients and organises appropriate support for them. This could see them return to their own home or another community setting.
To assist with safe and timely hospital discharge, patients are referred by emergency care and ambulance services for assessment and patients can request an additional assessment while the patient is in hospital.
Interpretation and translation services can be arranged by staff, for users of this service
Website: Rapid Assessment Team | NCH&C
Telephone: 01603 272 272 (switchboard)
Offer: West Norfolk
Be at Home - Health and Social Care Referrals (Great Yarmouth Borough Council)
The Be at Home-Adaptations & Alarm Service is available for residents who are at risk of falls and to prevent re-admission to hospital due to falls or to facilitate discharge. Both parts of the service are for privately rented clients or owner occupiers only. They do work such as the installation of grab rails, additional banister rails, shallow steps, handrails and temporary ramps to facilitate hospital discharge.
The service aims to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and re-admissions by reducing risks around the home (for example, by preventing falls or making a property more dementia friendly.
Referral is via the Great Yarmouth Borough Council electronic form and must be made by a health and social care professional.
Website: Be at Home - health and social care referrals - Great Yarmouth Borough Council
Email: referrals@great-yarmouth.gov.uk
Telephone: 01493 846 673 or 01493 846 670 and via online referral form for health and social care professionals: Log in / Register - Great Yarmouth Borough Council
Offer: Great Yarmouth and Waveney area only
Your Health Norfolk
Our falls prevention services for older adults.
Website: About Falls Prevention — Your Health Norfolk
Email: None direct
Telephone: 01603 339 026
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
Other
- “Stop Falling Start Living” is a YouTube account dedicated to Falls Prevention videos.
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
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:
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
North Norfolk District Council - Financial inclusion
If you have money worries, knowing where to start can be difficult. Our team can help get you started by providing free and confidential support and guidance.
Our service is honest and non-judgmental, and we treat everyone with respect.
We know that money worries can be stressful, so we will do everything we can to support you. Contacting our team will allow you to discuss these worries, plan your expenses, and discuss your financial situation.
Before contacting us, you may prefer to visit our cost of living page. We frequently update this page with the information you need to know and that you may find helpful. It contains information on money advice, such as pensions, budgeting and dealing with debt, and advice and support on the cost of living, including benefits, housing, utility bills, and help and support in accessing food.
Website: Home | Financial inclusion
Email: Not direct
Telephone: 01263 516 221
Offer: North Norfolk
South Norfolk and Broadland
Everybody needs a bit of extra support from time to time and the Help Hub makes sure people get that help as soon as possible.
The Help Hub works with partners to get you the right help, whatever the situation.
Website: Getting help | Broadland and South Norfolk
Email: Not direct, via referral form online: Request Help Hub Support - South Norfolk and Broadland
Telephone: Not direct, via referral form online: Request Help Hub Support - South Norfolk and Broadland
Offer: South Norfolk and Broadland
Breckland Council Cost of Living and Welfare Support
The Household Support Fund is money given to Norfolk County Council by the UK Government to help people who are struggling with everyday costs, such as food and energy bills. The current funding is available from April 2025 until March 2026.
Local councils have also received some of this money.
If you need help with essentials, a professional who is supporting you can make an application to Breckland Council on your behalf.
Website: Financial Support - Breckland Council
Email: community@breckland.gov.uk
Telephone: Not direct - website has other contacts and useful pages
Offer: Breckland (and wider)
Age UK Norwich - Resources for Financial Support
Recently we have seen an increase in enquiries regarding the help that is available to support the cost of living rises.
The Information and Advice department has compiled details of the financial help available both locally and nationally.
Website: Age UK Norwich Resources for Financial Support
Email: enquiries@ageuknorwich.org.uk
Telephone: 01603 496 333
Offer: Norwich (and general)
Just One Norfolk - Children & Young People's Health Services Money Worries
Lots of people have money worries sometimes. Coping on a tight budget can be stressful. Not knowing how you are going to provide the basics for your family is very hard to cope with. It can cause a lot of worry and affect your wellbeing.
It is important you ask for help when you need it. You will not be judged for this. People understand that affording the things you need can be hard sometimes.
There are services available to help you with your money worries – both with advice to help you budget and that can help you with household expenses such as food.
Website: Money Worries
Email: Not direct
Telephone: 0300 300 0123
Offer: Norfolk
Places for People Advice and Support in Norfolk (Norwich)
Places for People have a variety of resources to provide as much help and support as possible to our customers through the cost-of-living and other issues.
Support from Places for People
The Money Advice Team and Financial Inclusion Team offer the following support:
- maximising income through benefit take-up
- help with budgeting
- applying for funding and grants
- signposting to specialist support services e.g. debt or local welfare support
- benefit queries like Universal Credit or Housing Benefit
- financial hardship
Website: Advice and Support in Norfolk (Norwich) - Places for People
Email: Not direct
Telephone: 01772 666 446
Offer: Norfolk (Norwich)
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
Self-care and National Support Services
- Problem gambling is often described as a hidden addiction and some people may have gone to great lengths to hide this. Where the person has highlighted that problem gambling may be affecting them and/or the people around them.
Give reassurances that there are lots of sources of support
BeGambleAware
The BeGambleAware website has a short series of questions you can complete if you are concerned about your own or someone else's gambling. This has direct link to help, support and advice about problem gambling. The National Gambling Helpline can be contact on 0808 8020 133
Web: https://www.begambleaware.org/gambling-problems/do-i-have-a-gambling-problem/
The National Gambling Helpline
Tel: 0808 8020 133
The Helpline provides confidential advice, information and emotional support throughout Great Britain to anyone experiencing problems with gambling. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
GamCare Forum:
This is an online message board, providing a safe and secure space for users (who may be gamblers or their partners, friends and family) to share experiences, thoughts and feelings about problem gambling. Although the Forum is moderated by the GamCare Team, it is designed first and foremost for people to come together in similar situations, working through similar concerns and problems.
Website: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/forum/
The GamCare Group Chatroom:
GamCare run regular sessions in their online chatroom, where users can use live text chat to talk about issues related to gambling harms with other people in similar situations, supported by one of our Adviser.
Their Chatroom is a safe and supportive environment. Some sessions might be fairly busy and intense; others will be quieter and more relaxed. Each session is moderated by one of our Advisers, who will welcome you to the chat and be on hand to guide everyone or answer questions if needed.
Website: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/group-chatroom/
GamCare Treatment Services:
GamCare provides local services for people concerned about their own gambling and for people affected by someone else’s gambling.
People can refer themselves or be referred by another professional. Following assessment they provide individually tailored support through 1-1 sessions and groups or courses. They work holistically to enhance opportunities for people to make changes in their own gambling. We support affected others by providing a safe space for them to recognise and increase their coping skills.
Website: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/find-local-treatment/
Gamblers Anonymous
Runs local support groups for people with gambling addictions and advocates the same 12-step approach to recovery as Alcoholics Anonymous. Gamblers Anonymous also offers help and support via their website, including a forum, chat room and literature. Anyone who is seeking help for gambling addiction is able to attend meetings.
Web: https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/
Gam-Anon
Is an organisation dedicated to supporting the husbands, wives, partners, relatives or close friends of someone with a gambling problem who have also been affected by the problem. Like Gamblers Anonymous, meetings are held throughout the country, with online support also available.
Tel: 08700 50 88 80
Support for young people:
BigDeal is a place for young people to get information, advice and guidance about gambling. They also also help parents and professionals such as teachers, social workers and youth workers. They know all about gambling, how someone else’s gambling can affect you, and about the difficulties young people can get into if their gambling gets out of hand. That’s why you can share your worries via their live chat or helpline, without fear of judgement.
Web: https://www.bigdeal.org.uk
Where the person has indicated that problem gambling may be affecting their physical and mental health and wellbeing. (This could include anxiety/depression, low mood, stress, use of alcohol as a coping mechanism etc)
- Encourage the person to contact their GP. Their GP will be able support the person in many ways whilst they seek help for any associated gambling problems.
- MECC Link has dedicated content for a range of national and local support services for Mental and Physical Health.
- Alcohol: https://www.mecclink.co.uk/east-of-england/alcohol/
- Mental wellbeing: https://www.mecclink.co.uk/east-of-england/mental-wellbeing/
- Social isolation and loneliness: https://www.mecclink.co.uk/east-of-england/social-isolation-and-loneliness/
- If you believe the person is highly destressed or in crisis, consider offering details for Samaritans as a safe place to talk any time they like.
- Samaritans - (All age groups)
- Tel: 116 123, open 24 hours a day.
Where the person has indicated debt or financial concerns as an additional factor
Debt advice - Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice offers free, independent, confidential and impartial debt advice through their web chat service.
Tel: 0300 330 1313
Web: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money
Debt advice - Step Change Charity
StepChange Debt Remedy provides expert advice, budget support and solutions to help someone manage their debts.
Tel: 0800 138 1111, Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-4pm
Web: http://www.stepchange.org
Where the personal has indicated that they would like more information on self-exclusion from bookmakers or online gambling sites.
National self-exclusion schemes
New multi-operator schemes are being introduced across the five main sectors of the gambling industry to allow you to exclude yourself from each of those forms of gambling across the whole of Great Britain.
Web: http://optintoselfexclude.info/
Individual gambling sectors self-exclusion schemes
(Bookmakers, Casinos’, Bingo venues and Arcades also offer exclusion schemed for more information click the link below:
Web: https://www.begambleaware.org/stay-in-control/how-to-self-exclude/
Online sector self-exclusion and blocking software
If you want to self-exclude from an online (remote) gambling company then you will need to contact each of the companies with which you hold an account. This can usually be done on the responsible gambling pages of the website. You can also get email addresses and telephone numbers for online gambling companies that are part of the Remote Gambling Association here
If you are worried about online gambling then you can download a 'site blocker', which can block access to on line gambling sites. You can find further information on blocking software here
Local Support Services
Norfolk
Gamblers Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others do the same. This site offers various aids for the compulsive gambler including literature and most importantly a meeting finder. Meetings are the core of Gamblers Anonymous and we have meetings every day of the week throughout England, Wales and Ulster. No appointment is needed, just turn up.
Website: Gamblers Anonymous – England, Wales & Ulster
Email: info@gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Telephone: 0330 094 0322 (national)
Offer: National
East of England Gambling Service
A collaboration between CNWL and the Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, the East of England Gambling Service is free and run by the NHS.
Whether you are affected by your own gambling or someone else's, you are welcome to come and talk to us. We offer support to individuals and families experiencing the negative impact of gambling.
It can feel difficult to reach out for help, and this may be the first time you have, but we want you to know you are welcome here.
Website: East of England Gambling Service :: Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust
Email: cnwl.eofegambling@nhs.net
Telephone: 01908 724 287
Offer: East of England
Breakeven
Is gambling affecting your life? If you are concerned about yourself or a loved on contact us now for free support.
Website: Breakeven: free counselling help for gambling related harm
Email: info@breakeven.org.uk
Telephone: 01273 833 722
Offer: Norfolk (and wider)
Just One Norfolk - Children & Young People's Health Services
As your child starts to explore the online world, they may come across different forms of gambling. The minimum legal age for gambling in the UK is 18 years old, and while it used to be confined to scratch cards, betting and slot machines, it's now much easier for young people to access.
From social gaming to eSports betting, gambling involves risking money or anything of value to predict the outcome of a game of chance. Most young people will have no problems with gambling, however, for some, it can easily spiral out of control and affect their everyday life.
Website: Gambling
Email: Not direct
Telephone: 0300 300 0123
Offer: Norfolk
NHS - Help for problems with gambling
Gambling can harm many areas of your life. This can include problems with your:
- relationships
- physical and mental health
- finances
Website: Help for problems with gambling - NHS
Email: None direct - has additional service embedded in the webpage
Telephone: None direct - has additional service embedded in the webpage
Offer: National
GamCare
Gambling harm support starts here.
Website: GamCare - Founder of the National Gambling Helpline
Email: Not direct - can request email contact via the online form: Email Support - GamCare
Telephone: 0808 8020 133
Offer: National
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
Self-care and National Support Services
Local Support Services
NHS Health Checks – Norfolk County Council
“If you are aged 40 – 74 and live in Norfolk, or are registered with a Norfolk GP practice, you could be eligible for a free NHS Health Check.
The NHS Health Check is a health check-up for adults in England aged 40 to 74. It's designed to spot early signs of:
- stroke
- kidney disease
- heart disease
- type 2 diabetes
- dementia
As we get older, we have a higher risk of developing one of these conditions. An NHS Health Check helps find ways to lower this risk.
Email: Not direct - via REED Wellbeing online form: Norfolk NHS Health Checks | Reed Wellbeing
Telephone: 0808 175 0413(Via REED Wellbeing) or book via your GP
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
Annual health check for people with severe mental health conditions
If you have schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or psychosis, your GP surgery should invite you to have an annual health check. During your health check, the doctor or nurse will be able to look for any health problems, to help you get the treatment you need to stay well. You can ask them questions about your health and tell them how you are feeling. You can also talk about any treatment you are having or medicines you take.”
Email: Not direct, if eligible, you should get a letter from your GP surgery inviting you for an annual health check.
Telephone: Not direct, if eligible, you should get a letter from your GP surgery inviting you for an annual health check.
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
Just One Norfolk - 14+ Yearly Learning Disability Health Check
“Yearly health checks are for adults and young people aged 14 or over with a learning disability. A yearly health check helps you stay healthy, giving you an opportunity to talk to a professional about your health. If there are any problems, they will make sure you get the right care. You do not have to be unwell to have a health check. Most people have their annual health check when they're feeling well.”
Email: Not direct, if eligible, you should get a letter from your GP surgery inviting you for an annual health check.
Telephone: Not direct, if eligible, you should get a letter from your GP surgery inviting you for an annual health check.
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
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
Ready to Change - Help with weight management
“More than two-thirds of adults in Norfolk are classed as overweight or obese. Being obese can impact on your physical and mental health.”
To help you on your journey to reaching a healthier weight, Norfolk County Council have commissioned the following weight management services.
Email: Not direct - apply via referral form: Weight Management Self-referral Form - Privacy notice and Eligibility - Section 1 - Norfolk County Council
Telephone: 0344 800 8006 (customer service team if you are having problems with the form)
Offer: Norfolk
Active Norfolk and Every Move Activity Finder
“No matter your age, gender, ability or fitness level, being physically active will benefit your body in hundreds of ways. According to Public Health England you should aim to be active for 150 minutes or more each week.
At Active Norfolk, we are working hard to increase physical activity levels across the county. We do this by working closely with other charities and organisations to ensure physical activity is accessible to everyone, and through the benefits to help the people of Norfolk live longer, happier and healthier lifestyles.
Whether you already lead a fairly active lifestyle or you’re just getting started, we can help you at all stages of your journey to being physically active.
Website: https://www.activenorfolk.org/public/
Website: https://www.activenorfolk.org/public/activity-finder/
Email: Not direct - via referral form: Contact Us - Get In Touch - Active Norfolk
Telephone: Not direct - via referral form: Contact Us - Get In Touch - Active Norfolk
Offer: Norfolk
Grohealth - healthy weight for children (Norfolk County Council)
This service is for children and young people aged 4-18 and their families who live in Norfolk and provides a tailored made programme of support to help them develop into a healthy weight.
🍎 Eat Smart: Discover delicious, nutritious meals that fuel your body and mind.
🚀 Get Active: Find workouts and activities you love that keep you moving and grooving.
❤️ Stay Balanced: Master techniques to manage stress, sleep better, and stay focused.
Website: Are you ready to help the young people of Norfolk take charge of their health and wellbeing?
Email: Not direct - via referral form: Are you ready to help the young people of Norfolk take charge of their health and wellbeing?
Telephone: 0330 133 0307
Offer: Norfolk
Your Health Norfolk - Weight Management Programme
Start your journey to be a healthier, more confident you today!
At Your Health Norfolk, healthy living is the cornerstone of our approach. We believe that a healthy and contented lifestyle should be accessible to all, and our fundamental principles of teamwork, respect, fairness, influence, and satisfaction reflect this. By leveraging our expertise and knowledge, we endeavour to inspire all our clients to pursue a happier and healthier lifestyle through simple lifestyle modifications. We offer a range of services to assist you in achieving your personal goals.
Our mission at Your Health Norfolk is to provide lifestyle interventions that deliver results across Norfolk. We aim to promote social connections within our community, enabling individuals to not only enhance their health but also participate more actively in the community. Our team at Your Health Norfolk is well-versed in lifestyle services and can customise interventions to meet each person's unique requirements. If you are interested in improving your health and expanding your social circle, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Website: Adult Weight Management Norfolk — Your Health Norfolk
Email: Not direct, via online form: Adult Weight Management Norfolk — Your Health Norfolk
Telephone: Not direct, via online form: Adult Weight Management Norfolk — Your Health Norfolk
Offer: Norfolk
NHS Digital Weight Management Programme
The NHS Digital Weight Management Programme supports adults living with obesity who also have a diagnosis of diabetes, hypertension or both, to manage their weight and improve their health.
It is a 12-week online behavioural and lifestyle programme that people can access via a smartphone or computer with internet access
Website: NHS England » The NHS Digital Weight Management Programme
Email: england.wmp-prevention@nhs.net
Telephone: None direct
Offer: National
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
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
Care Leavers at risk of homelessness
“If you think you might soon have nowhere to live, or you consider yourself as homeless, then contact your personal adviser or life beyond care team.
Your personal advisor will support you to contact your local housing authority who will arrange a housing options appointment. Care leavers who were looked after by Norfolk County Council will have a local connection to all housing authorities in Norfolk so you can apply to any council area you wish to live. If you are living outside of Norfolk you can still approach your local council and be entitled to support.”
Email: N/A
Telephone: Not direct - main number <0344 800 8020>
Offer: Norfolk
Pathways Norwich
“Seven local organisations have been awarded £758k by Norwich City Council over three years (2018 – 2021) to address rough sleeping and support people with complex needs in Norwich. The project, entitled Pathways, uses the combined strength of its members to offer a pioneering and collaborative model that has not been seen before.”
Pathways Norwich provide advice and assistance to people who are rough sleeping or at risk of rough sleeping, support individuals to maintain their accommodation where this will prevent rough sleeping and can make referrals into accommodation that is available and is most suitable to meet a person’s needs.
Website: https://www.pathwaysnorwich.org.uk/
Email: pathways@stmartinshousing.org.uk
Telephone: 01603 984694
Offer: Norwich
Purfleet Trust
"We've been working to end homelessness and rebuild lives in Kings Lynn and West Norfolk for over 30 years. Everyone has a right to live in a decent, suitable and affordable home and access to services which means that they can learn new skills and move forward on a positive pathway. Every year we support over 600 people move forward out of homelessness."
Website: https://www.purfleettrust.org.uk/
Email: enquiries@purfleettrust.org.uk
Telephone: 01553 767829
Offer: Kings Lynn and West Norfolk
MAP – Young People
We’re a youth charity changing the world from Norfolk. We are staff, young people and supporters working together. Staff are advisers, counsellors, youth workers and support staff. Young people aged 11-25 get support and take action. Supporters form strong bonds of friendship over many years. We are all motivated to achieve our vision, working on our mission, living our values every day.
If you're homeless, worried about eviction, or have questions about finding suitable accommodation and living independently, we can help. We can help work out your options and explain your rights when it comes to housing and accommodation.
Website: https://www.map.uk.net/for-young-people/housing-money-and-benefits/
Email: advice@map.uk.net
Telephone: 0800 074 4454
Offer: Norfolk
First Step Project – Broadland and South Norfolk
The First Step project is designed to address the needs of rough sleepers across the Broadland and South Norfolk districts.
Our Rough Sleeper Coordinators are able to provide a rapid response to reports of rough sleepers. Their role is to establish contact, assess the needs of anyone found to be rough sleeping and provide the necessary support to engage with services and to seek more settled accommodation.
Website: Assistance for rough sleepers | Broadland and South Norfolk
Email: firststep@southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk
Telephone: Office number <01508 533751> out of hours <01603 412180>
Offer: Broadland and South Norfolk
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
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
Mind - Norfolk and Waveney
Whether it's you needing support, someone in your family, a friend or work colleague, we are here for you. We’re Norfolk and Waveney Mind, the mental health charity that believes no one should have to face a mental health problem alone.
Website: Norfolk and Waveney Mind - Contact Us
Email: rictriage@norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk
Telephone: 0300 330 5488
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
NHS Talking Therapies - Norfolk and Waveney
Wellbeing is important to us all. We want to feel good about ourselves, to get the most out of our lives and feel connected to other people. ‘Wellbeing’ means feeling more than just happy and confident, it means feeling able to cope when things get tough in our lives or when our physical health suffers.
Norfolk and Waveney Talking Therapies provide a range of support for people with common mental health and emotional issues, such as low mood, depression, or stress. We work with you to help you make the necessary changes to improve your wellbeing and quality of life.
Website: Helping you live your life - The Norfolk and Waveney Talking Therapies Norfolk and Waveney
Email: Not direct - self referral link <Self-referral - The Norfolk and Waveney Talking Therapies Norfolk and Waveney>
Telephone: 0300 123 1503
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
Mind
Even though 1 in 4 people have mental health problems, most of us don’t get the help we need. This has to change. We’re Mind. We’re here to fight for mental health. For support, for respect, for you.
We change minds across England and Wales by making mental health something people talk about every day. We speak out against unfair treatment in healthcare, at work, and in the law - things that make life harder for people with mental health problems.
Website: Home - Mind
Email: N/A
Telephone: 0300 102 1234 for support or 0300 123 3393 for more information
Offer: National
Rethink
As experts in mental illness, we know that with the right support and information people severely affected by mental illness can have a good quality of life. That’s why our aim is to meet each person’s individual needs and make sure everyone living with a mental illness is treated with dignity and respect.
Website: Advice, information and support from the experts
Email: infor@rethink.org
Telephone: 0808 801 0525
Offer: National
YANA
Working in agriculture and the countryside is usually a good way of life but it is a demanding and stressful occupation. So, it’s not surprising that many people involved with agriculture can feel isolated, depressed or unable to cope as well as normal.
1 in 4 people in the UK will experience poor mental health so it is important to know that you, or the person you are concerned about, are not alone.
Website: YANA: You Are Not Alone – Rural Mental Health Support
Email: helpline@yanahelp.org
Telephone: 0300 323 0400
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
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
Help with weight management
“More than two-thirds of adults in Norfolk are classed as overweight or obese. Being obese can impact on your physical and mental health.” To help you on your journey to reaching a healthier weight, Norfolk County Council have commissioned the following weight management services.
Website: Help with weight management - Norfolk County Council
Email: Not direct - Contact form <General enquiry - Enquiry - Section 1 - Norfolk County Council>
Telephone: Not direct - General number <0344 800 8020>
Offer: Norfolk
Ready to Change – Your way to better health
Here you'll learn more about behaviour change. You'll find tools to help you set goals or targets, plan how to tackle problems when they arise and maintain your new behaviours. These tools can be used to make positive changes to your life. Things like eating a healthy diet, losing weight, being more active, quitting smoking and drinking less
Website: Begin your weight loss journey - Norfolk County Council
Email: Not direct - Contact form <General enquiry - Enquiry - Section 1 - Norfolk County Council>
Telephone: Not direct - General number <0344 800 8020>
Offer: Norfolk
Active Norfolk
“No matter your age, gender, ability or fitness level, being physically active will benefit your body in hundreds of ways. According to Public Health England you should aim to be active for 150 minutes or more each week.
At Active Norfolk, we are working hard to increase physical activity levels across the county. We do this by working closely with other charities and organisations to ensure physical activity is accessible to everyone, and through the benefits to help the people of Norfolk live longer, happier and healthier lifestyles. Whether you already lead a fairly active lifestyle or you’re just getting started, we can help you at all stages of your journey to being physically active.
Website: https://www.activenorfolk.org/public/
Activity Finder: Brand New Activity Finder - Get Active In Norfolk - Active Norfolk
Email: Not direct - Contact Form <Contact Us - Get In Touch - Active Norfolk>
Telephone: N/A
Offer: Norfolk
NHS Better Health
It's the perfect time to get active. No matter how much you do, physical activity is good for your body and mind. Adults should aim to be active every day. Some is good – more is better still.
Website: Get active - Better Health - NHS
Email: N/A
Telephone: N/A
Offer: National
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
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
Norfolk
iCash Norfolk
Our iCaSH clinics provide services on all aspects of sexual and reproductive health, including contraception, (coils, implants, oral pills), condoms, testing and treatment for all sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV.
All iCaSH clinics are self-referral, which means that a GP referral letter is not necessary. The services are free, confidential, non-judgemental, and available to anyone present in Norfolk regardless of place of residence, immigration status, sex, age, ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation.
STI -
Anyone aged 16 or over, without symptoms of an STI can order a free STI testing kit online at iCaSH Express Test service. Under 16-year-olds need to phone in to make an appointment.
HIV -
Anyone aged 16 and over who has a Norfolk address can order free HIV self-sampling test kit. you send off your sample and receive results via your online account. You will be notified when your results are ready by your method of choice at registration.
Face-to-face HIV testing is also available to anyone in Norfolk for free
Chlamydia -
Chlamydia - NHS and Gonorrhoea - NHS testing is quick and easy. NCSP promotes screening to young people aged under 25 years.
How to get a test in Norfolk:
- PICKUP – Young people can collect a postal testing kit at a range of pickup points including many youth organisations, pharmacies, GP surgeries.
- ONLINE – Young women and men (16 to 24) can also order a test kit online via this link Welcome to SH.UK — SH.UK
Free Condoms -
The C-Card scheme aims to ensure that free condoms remain accessible to young people. All young people aged 13 to 24 can collect packs of condoms/lube using a valid C-Card at any C-Card outlet – C-Card Points and C-Card Lite Points.
How to get a C-Card:
- Young people aged 16 to 24 – can join the scheme without a consultation with a practitioner at any C-Card Outlet (both C-Card Points and C-Card Lite Points). Condom collection is as often as they require.
- Young people aged 13 to 15 – are able to join the C-Card scheme following a short consultation with a trained practitioner who has a valid DBS certificate at C-Card Points. They are unable to join the C-Card scheme at C-Card Lite Points.
Condoms by Post
Free condoms and lubricants are available by post to anyone aged 16 and over and has a Norfolk postal address. Condoms can be ordered directly using the Order free condoms by post.
Primary Care
Local General Practices (GPs) provide contraceptive services including the contraceptive pill, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) such as the coil or implants to women in Norfolk. Many GPs can also provide emergency hormonal contraception (morning after pill) for episodes of unprotected sexual activity. Many GPs also offer C-Card condoms and screening for chlamydia, a common STI.
Most pharmacies offer free oral emergency contraception (morning after pill), to all women aged 13 and over, C-Card condoms, and chlamydia testing kits and treatment.
Other Sexual Health Support Services
Termination of pregnancy
- The British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) Find a Clinic | BPAS provides a termination of pregnancy service (abortion) across most of Norfolk. Call 03457 30 40 30 or request an appointment online.
- James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust provides a termination of pregnancy service in East Norfolk, referral via health professional or iCaSH.
Rape and sexual assault
- The Harbour Centre The Harbour Centre – Sexual Assault Referral Centre provides practical and emotional support to recover from rape and sexual assault whether recent or in the past, regardless of gender. Call 01603 276381 to speak to someone (24 hours a day, every day).
- Sue Lambert Trust Sue Lambert Trust – Support for survivors of sexual violence and sexual abuse is a Norfolk charity providing a kind, safe, non-judgmental, and supportive range of services for people who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault or sexual violence.
Norfolk Alcohol and Drug Behaviour Change Service
- Change Grow Live | Charity | We can help you change your life provides drug and alcohol support to meet individual needs, including Chemsex (sexual activity whilst under the influence of drugs)
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
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
Ready to Change – Help to quit smoking
"Whether you're just starting your smokefree journey or have recently quit, our step-by-step guide and stopping smoking tips will support you to make the change and keep up the good work."
Email: Not direct - registration form <Help to quit smoking - Norfolk County Council>
Telephone: Not direct - Norfolk County Council main contact <0344 800 8020>
Offer: Norfolk
Smokefree Norfolk
The Smokefree Norfolk team is dedicated to helping people to quit smoking for good. With our support, people make sustainable change that will help them improve their wellbeing, become healthier and reduce their chances of developing illnesses.
Stopping smoking is one of the best things we can do to improve our health. It's never late to quit - we are helping people in Norfolk to succeed. Using the national Swap to Stop scheme, we will provide smokers, aged 18+ with free vaping kits to help them quit.
Website: Home | Smokefree Norfolk
Email: Not direct - Registration form <Get Started | Smokefree NorfolkGet Started | Smokefree Norfolk>
Telephone: 0800 085 4113
Offer: Norfolk
Feel Good Suffolk
Feel Good Suffolk is here to help you make healthy changes for your health and wellbeing, one step at a time. We can help you find the information and support you need to stop smoking, be more active and manage your weight.
Website: Home - Feel Good Suffolk
Email: Not direct - Self referral form <Access Elemental - Marketplace>
Telephone: 0345 603 4060
Offer: Suffolk and Waveney
NHS Quit Smoking
When you quit smoking, good things start to happen. You'll begin to see almost immediate improvements to your health.
It's never too late to quit and it's easier to stop smoking with the right support. Why not start by downloading the free NHS Quit Smoking app to track your progress and get daily motivation?
Website: Free Personal Quit Plan - Quit Smoking - NHS
Email: N/A
Telephone: N/A
Offer: National
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
Although most people need some kind of social contact to maintain good mental health, everyone has different social needs. The person may be someone who is content with a few close friends, or they may need a large group of varied acquaintances to feel satisfied.
State that the simplest way to ease feelings of loneliness can be to try to meet more, or different, people.
- Can they think of anything they are interested in, a class or a group they have heard of, that could help connect them with new people? See Useful contacts for ideas of how to find groups. The Red Cross Connecting Communities team can help you connect with your local community and meet new friends.
- Volunteering is a good way of meeting people. Helping others can also really help improve mental health. See Mind's Useful contacts - Mind for organisations that can help someone find local volunteering opportunities.
- Join an online community. See Mind's Useful contacts - Mind for some suggestions.
The Coronavirus (Covid-19) and Loneliness, What can you do to support people in your local community?
It is particularly important for people who
- are 70 or over
- have a long-term condition
- are pregnant
- have a weakened immune system
People in these groups have been asked to apply social distancing, you can support people who are doing this by asking if you could:
Help your neighbours - #viralkindness contact card
Facebook groups
Covid Mutual Aid UK is a group of volunteers supporting local community groups organising mutual aid
Website: https://covidmutualaid.org/
Loneliness in Older People
- The Silver Line is the only free confidential helpline providing information, friendship and advice to older people, open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Call 0800 470 8090. The Silver Line can also put you in contact with community activities in your local area
- Age UK has a befriending service to support loneliness in later life, this is where a volunteer visits an older person once a week in their own home. There is also telephone befriending Telephone befriending, where a volunteer befriender will phone an older person.
- https://www.reengage.org.uk/ Re-engage works with people aged 75 and over who live alone; those who are especially vulnerable to loneliness. Call our freephone number 0800 716 543 Email info@reengage.org.uk
- NHS Choices has a range of advice on Loneliness including volunteering, continuing education and how to engage with social media and computers.
Loneliness in Younger People
- It is recognised that loneliness is not something that is exclusive to older adult, indeed many younger adults in particular can experience loneliness and a recent report from the Office for National Statistics highlighted Britain as the loneliness capital of Europe.
- Whilst on the outside young people can be very well connected on social media, if this replaces face-to-face contact then it can add to a feeling of loneliness. Some people also present an idealised version of themselves online and we expect to have social lives like those portrayed in the media.
- Helplines can reduce loneliness, at least in the short term
- The Samaritans are available around the clock, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This number is FREE to call on 116 123
- Young Minds offers advice for young people to help them look after their mental health. They also have a free 24/7 textline service. YoungMinds | Mental Health Charity For Children And Young People | YoungMinds
- There are also support services on websites such as Mind's that can remind you you're not alone.
- It doesn’t really matter who you talk to first. Some ideas would include: a friend, family member, anonymous listening service like Nightline or the Samaritans, student union welfare rep, personal tutor, students support services staff member, counsellor, or doctor. Decide who is the best person for you to talk to first. Be realistic about what each person can offer. If it doesn’t work out, try someone else. Talk to more than one person.
Local Support Services
Better Together
Norfolk County Council has commissioned services across the county to help tackle loneliness and social isolation.
The services offer 1-to-1 support to adults (18+) whose loneliness is the primary issue affecting their health & wellbeing. The service should, where possible, form part of a wider package of support for individuals where loneliness is a symptom of other more complex challenges, such as a caring role, debt, or mental and physical health. We would be looking at building that support network if it isn’t already in place.
Website: Home | Better Together Norfolk
Email: www.voluntarynorfolk.org.uk
Telephone: 0300 303 3920
Offer: South Norfolk, Broadland, Norwich and Great Yarmouth
Lily
Norfolk County Council has commissioned services across the county to help tackle loneliness and social isolation.
The services offer 1-to-1 support to adults (18+) whose loneliness is the primary issue affecting their health & wellbeing. Clients are supported to:
- Access social activities, volunteering opportunities, community services and assets.
- Identify and overcome barriers that prevent them becoming connected.
- Reconnect with family & friends and make new connections in their community.
Please note: Lily is no longer accepting new referrals Loneliness and Social Isolation, however the Lily website contains lots of information about local activities, services and events which may help to reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation.
Website: LILY
Email: N/A
Telephone: 01553 616200
Offer: Kings Lynn and West Norfolk
North Norfolk Help Hub
At times, we all need a little help and support dealing with issues or problems in our life that are hurting our physical, mental, social or financial wellbeing. Getting help as soon as possible can prevent things from getting worse.
The Early Help and Prevention Team are part of the North Norfolk Help Hub
They can provide advice and support with:
- carer support
- mental wellbeing
- social isolation
- wellbeing and much more.
Website: Home | Help Hub
Email: social.prescribing@north-norfolk.gov.uk
Telephone: 01263 516353
Offer: North Norfolk
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
Check if you have norovirus
The main symptoms of norovirus are:
- feeling sick (nausea)
- diarrhoea
- being sick (vomiting)
You may also have:
- a high temperature of 38C or above
- a headache
- aching arms and legs
The symptoms start suddenly within 1 to 2 days of being infected
How to treat norovirus yourself
- An infection with norovirus is self-limiting and most people will make a full recovery in 1-2 days. It is important to keep hydrated – especially children and the elderly
- Stay off school or work until the symptoms have stopped for 2 days. Also avoid visiting anyone in hospital during this time.
- Advice is available from NHS 111, including an online symptom checker at nhs.uk.
Please note that Antibiotics do not work for Norovirus. Do not visit either A&E or GPs with symptoms as this may spread the virus.
How to prevent the spread of Norovirus
Good hand hygiene is Key to stopping the spread of the virus
You should also keep shared surfaces (such as door handles and telephones) clean, and avoid sharing food, crockery, cutlery, or towels.
National Support and Information Services
Key Websites:
Local Support Services
Norfolk
Norovirus Guidance
NHS information on Norovirus: Norovirus, also called the "winter vomiting bug", is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. It can be very unpleasant, but usually goes away in about 2 days. The main symptoms of norovirus are:
- feeling sick (nausea)
- diarrhoea
- being sick (vomiting)
You may also have:
- a high temperature
- a headache
- aching arms and legs
The symptoms start suddenly within 1 to 2 days of being infected.
You can usually treat yourself or your child at home.
The most important thing is to rest and have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.
You will usually start to feel better in 2 to 3 days.
How norovirus is spread:
Norovirus can spread very easily.
You can catch norovirus from:
- close contact with someone with norovirus
- touching surfaces or objects that have the virus on them, then touching your mouth
- eating food that's been prepared or handled by someone with norovirus
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is the best way to stop it spreading. Alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus.
Stay off school or work until you have not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least 2 days. This is when you're most infectious.
Do not visit hospitals or care homes during this time.
Website: Norovirus (vomiting bug) - NHS
The above link also has guidance on when you should seek advice from 111, 999 or A&E.
Local Support Services
There are no specific services for Norfolk residents dealing with Norovirus outbreaks.
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
Self-care and National Support Services
National Support Services
NHS Stay well this Winter
Cold weather can be seriously bad for your health. That's why it's important to look after yourself, especially during the winter. If you start to feel unwell, even if it's a cough or a cold, don't wait until it gets more serious. Seek advice from your pharmacist.
Web: https://www.nhs.uk/staywell/
Self Care
Staying Warm
Age UK have produced a great that explains what you can do to get yourself and your home ready for winter, as well as where to go for more information and support. Download the guide from the link below
Eating Well
Make sure you have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day to keep yourself warm, and keep active in the home if you can.
Visit NHS Choices for further ideas and information.
Wear warm clothes
Wrap up warm, inside and out. Layering clothing helps you stay warm as air is trapped between layers, keeping you insulated. Wearing layers of cotton or fleecy clothes is particularly effective.
Wear shoes with a good grip if you need to go outside and wear a hat or head scarf. If possible, stay inside during a cold spell if you have heart or respiratory problems. When indoors, wear well-fitting slippers with fleecy linings to keep your feet warm and to help prevent falls.
To keep warm when inside you could try:
- using a covered hot water bottle or electric blanket (but not at the same time!) to keep warm in bed
- wearing bed socks and warm night clothes
Keeping your home warm
Cold homes have a significant impact on your health. One of the best ways of keeping yourself well during winter is to stay warm.
If you have reduced mobility, are aged 65 or over, or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease, you should:
- heat your home to at least 18oC
- keep your bedroom at 18oC all night
If you're aged under 65 and healthy, you can safely heat your home to cooler than 18oC as long as you're comfortable.
Reducing fuel bills
See more about affordable warmth
Cold weather benefits
Winter Fuel Payment
If you were born on or before 5 November 1953 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills. You usually get a winter fuel payment automatically if you are eligible.
Web:
Warm Home Discount Scheme
You could get £140 off your electricity bill if you either receive the guarantee credit element of pension credit, or
you’re on a low income and meet your energy supplier’s criteria for the scheme
Cold Weather Payment
You may get a cold weather payment if you’re getting certain benefits. You’ll get a payment if the average temperature in your area is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees celsius or below for 7 consecutive days. You’ll get £25 for each 7 day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March.
Staying Safe
Prevent falls in winter weather
One of the biggest risks from wintry weather is falling, particularly among older adults. Icy conditions make it harder to stay on your feet, and the cold may cause us to limit our activity, which can lead to loss of strength and balance.
- Here are some tips to help prevent falls:
- Wrap up to stay warm but make sure you can see in all directions and move easily and freely.
- Wear sturdy shoes or boots with treads, even if you're just going out to get the newspaper.
- Do some light stretching before you venture out; it will make you physically more able to prevent a fall.
- Avoid walking on surfaces that may be icy if you can. If you can't, slow down, shorten your stride, walk with feet pointed out slightly and knees gently bent to improve grip and balance.
- Snow can hide curbs and uneven surfaces. If you can't see where your foot will land, find another way.
- Replace worn rubber ferrules on walking sticks, walking frames and crutches but remember that brakes on wheeled walkers may not be as effective on icy pavements so avoid unsalted ramps and slopes.
- Dry off shoes, sticks, crutches and walking frames as soon as you get indoors. Wet shoes on dry surfaces are just as dangerous as dry shoes on wet surfaces.
- Carry a cleaning cloth and stop immediately to clean your glasses if they fog up going from outdoors to indoors.
- Ask shops and your local council about options that might make it safer for you when conditions are bad e.g. delivering to your home or collecting the bin from beside your house instead of the end of your drive
- When in doubt, don't risk it. Ask for help if you don't feel safe doing something.
Local Support Services
Norfolk
Norfolk and Waveney ICS have several resources to help keep yourself self warm and well this winter. This includes finding the right health service for you, COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, finding mental health support services, children's health, support for winter hardship, staying warm and top tips to keep well.
Stay well this winter
Cold weather can be tough but it's especially hard on vulnerable people, or people aged 65 and over. We want you to keep warm and well this winter.
Website: Warm and well - Warm and Well - Norfolk & Waveney Integrated Care System (ICS
Email: nwicb.contactus@nhs.net
Telephone: Not direct
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
Warm Welcome Campaign
'We want everyone to find a place of belonging and reconnection at a Warm Welcome Space near their home. Guests say that what they love about their Warm Welcome Space is the opportunity to make new friends and connect with their community. It all starts by sharing a cuppa. Why not explore your local Warm Welcome Space today? We have over 3000 registered organisations that have opened or are opening up free, warm, welcoming spaces for the public over this winter across the UK. Please use this map to find one.”
Website: Warm Welcome Campaign
Email: Not direct - Contact form <Contact Us>
Telephone: Not direct
Offer: National
Norfolk County Council Winter Driving Tips
Norfolk County Council also have winter driving tips on getting your vehicle winter ready, driving on snow, driving on ice, driving in fog, and driving in wet weather.
Click the following link to find out more: Winter driving safety tips - Norfolk County Council
Preparing your home for winter
Norfolk Resilience Forum has information on getting your home ready for winter including power cuts, annual gas checks, insurance, preparation for high winds, clearing guttering, insulation, and risks including flood warnings. Click here for more information.
Norfolk County Council has collated financial assistance and support resources for paying your energy bills in the winter: Help and advice with utility bills - Norfolk County Council
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
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
Norfolk Alcohol and Drug Behaviour Change Service
“We can help you break free from harmful patterns of behaviour and feel happier and healthier. We tailor the drug and alcohol support we offer to fit your needs. Whether it's one to one working or group sessions, we will help you work towards your goals. We want you to unlock your full potential.
Our services include medical treatment. This might include substitute prescribing or medication that helps prevent relapse.”
Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/alcohol-drug-behaviour-change-norfolk
Email: norfolk.info@cgl.org.uk
Telephone: 01603 514096
Offer: Norfolk and Waveney
The Matthew Project
'We empower young people and adults to overcome drugs, alcohol, and mental health issues so they can live their lives more fully. We also offer specialist services for both family members impacted by others’ substance misuse and for veterans.'
Website: Drug and alcohol recovery | The Matthew Project | England
Email: hello@matthewproject.org
Telephone:01603 626123
Offer: Norfolk
Drink Coach
Drinkcoach is a professional, convenient and confidential way to discuss your drinking. Drinkcoach offer expert guidance from an alcohol specialist in the form of up to six free coaching sessions.
Find out if you are eligible for this free service here with our alcohol quiz<Find out how your drinking may be affecting you - Start the quiz - Section 1 - Norfolk County Council>
Website: Drink Less with DrinkCoach I Book free Online Coaching Sessions
Email: Not direct - Contact form <General Enquiry | DrinkCoach — DrinkCoach>
Telephone: Not direct - Appointment booking <Book Appointment | DrinkCoach — DrinkCoach>
Offer: Norfolk
Ready to Change
Whether it's reaching that healthy weight, moving more, drinking less alcohol, or quitting smoking sign up to our 30-Day Health Challenge today.
Focusing on a short, 30-day period can make it easier to achieve your health goals. By breaking your journey into smaller, manageable steps, you'll build momentum for lasting change.
Website: Help to drink less - Norfolk County Council
Email: Not direct
Telephone: Not direct
Offer: Norfolk
Frank
Find out everything you need to know about drugs, their effects and the law. Talk to Frank for facts, support and advice on drugs and alcohol today.
Website: Honest information about drugs | FRANK
Email: Not direct - Contact form <Email Frank | FRANK>
Telephone: 0300 123 6600
Offer: National
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026
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
In an emergency or if someone is in immediate risk of serious harm or injury contact the emergency services. Telephone 999.
If you feel like taking your own life is the only option, support is available. Please talk to someone. There are a wide range of services that can help you, and those you care about.
National Support
Samaritans
'Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. We're here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.'
Website: Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen
Email: jo@samaritans.org
Telephone: 116 123
Offer: National
The National Suicide Prevention Helpline
'Our mission is simple: to be there for you when you need us the most. Everyone’s journey is unique, and some may find themselves at this critical point more frequently than others. Our dedicated volunteers are here to lend a caring, non-judgmental ear, providing a comforting space and time for you to discuss your feelings or concerns about someone close to you. Rest assured, our helpline is a confidential service designed to support anyone in need.'
Website: National Suicide Prevention Helpline | SPUK Suicide Prevention Charity
Email: info@spuk.org.uk
Telephone: 0800 587 0800
Offer: National
Support for Men in Norfolk
MensCraft
'Happier and healthier men make for better brothers, partners, fathers, sons, colleagues and friends.'
MensCraft is a Norfolk-based charity focusing exclusively on the health and wellbeing of men. We support men facing life’s challenges or experiencing difficulties with their mental health.
Email: info@menscraft.org.uk
Telephone: 0800 208 8382
Offer: Norfolk
Norwich Menshed
Norwich Menshed is a registered charity inspired by the original concept of the men’s shed which started in Australia. Norwich Menshed started in November 2013 with support from NCF and the People’s Health Lottery and since then they have grown with over 150 men accessing our services annually and 70 active members at any one time.
Website: Norwich Menshed | Norfolk Community Foundation
Email: shinebrighter@norfolkfoundation.com
Telephone: 01603 623958
Offer: Norfolk
Support for Children, young people and families in Norfolk
Childline
'Childline for under 12s. We're here for you. We're here for all young people, whatever you're going through.'
Childline is a British counselling service for children and young people under 19 in the United Kingdom provided by The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.
Website: Childline | Childline
Email: Not direct - Contact form <Registration | Childline>
Telephone: 0800 1111
Offer: Norfolk
Just One Norfolk: Chat Health
ChatHealth is a secure NHS approved text messaging service. All Norfolk young people aged 11 – 19 can text 07480 635060 to start a conversation with a trained health professional.
Website: ChatHealth
Email: Not direct - Contact form <Register>
Telephone: 0300 300 0123
Text: 07480 635060
Offer: Norfolk & Waveney
Support for Older People in Norfolk
The Silver line Helpline
The Silver Line Helpline run by Age UK is a free, 24-hour telephone service for older people across the UK. We offer friendship, conversation, and support for people aged 55 or over, especially those who may be experiencing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Website: The Silver Line Helpline
Email: Not direct - Contact form page <Information and advice enquiry | Age UK>
Telephone: 08004 708 090
Offer: Norfolk
Updated: 15/05/2025
Review Date: 15/05/2026