Simple Signposting to Better Health and Wellbeing
South Devon and Torbay
Self-care and National Support Services
Alcoholics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous is group meeting where people share their experience, strength and hope that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. Each meeting is autonomous, and confidential.
Telephone: 0800 9177 650
Website: AA Meetings | Alcoholics Anonymous - Great Britain (alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk)
Drinkline
Free, confidential helpline for anyone who is concerned about their drinking, or someone else's.
Telephone: 0300 123 1110
Website: Drinkaware Home | Drinkaware
'Drink Free Days' App
If the person has a smartphone they can download the 'Drink Free Days' app Drink less - Better Health - NHS (www.nhs.uk) designed to make it easy to keep an eye on alcohol consumption and take control with daily tips and feedback.
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.
Telephone: 0300 999 1212
Website: Welcome to UKNA | UKNA | Narcotics Anonymous in the United Kingdom
FRANK
FRANK is a national drug information service providing honest information about drugs. If you need friendly confidential advice for yourself or someone else, you can contact their helpline 24/7. They also provide email and live chat services.
Telephone: 0300 123 6600 or Text 82111
Website: Honest information about drugs | FRANK (talktofrank.com)
Local Support Services
Torbay Drug and Alcohol Service
The team is part of NHS trust and offer specialist service to people with Drug or Alcohol problems in the Torbay Area. Referrals can be made by GPs, Criminal Justice agencies or clients themselves. For services in the rest of South Devon please contact Together.
Telephone: 01803 291129 / 01803 604330
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Contact form: Contact form - Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust
Website: Contact Torbay Drug & Alcohol Service - Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust
Address: Walnut Lodge, Walnut Road, Chelston, Torquay, TQ2 6HP
Referral Method: Self-Referral or via professional
Together Drug and Alcohol Service
Together Drug & Alcohol Service (part of EDP) are passionate about supporting individuals who face complex issues, including substance misuse, mental ill health, and other harmful, addictive and offending behaviour, to improve their health, wellbeing and employability. They work primarily in the South West. They have three hubs (Barnstaple, Exeter and Newton Abbot), and a number of satellite services, across the county where you can get support.
Telephone: 0800 233 5444
Email: info@edp.org.uk
Website: Together - EDP Drug & Alcohol Services
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Y-Smart (under 18s)
Y-SMART: Youth-Substance Misuse, Advice, Recovery, Treatment, is a Drug and Alcohol Service for under-18s, throughout Devon (excluding Plymouth and Torbay).
They work with young people up to the age of 18, who have issues around substance use. If you need their help, would like some information, or advice, please contact them. All enquiries will be strictly confidential. No matter how big or small your questions or problems are, just get in touch – they are there to help.
Telephone: 01271 388162 (this number covers the whole of Devon)
Opening Hours: Mon–Thurs 9am to 5pm & Friday 9am to 4pm
Email: y-smart@devon.gov.uk
Website: www.y-smart.org.uk/
Referral Method: Self-referral, parents or via professional
The Children’s Society – CheckPoint
They provide help to young people aged 8-18 across Devon, Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. They can speak to you on the phone, online or face to face. If you are using drugs or alcohol and feel it is causing you problems, they can help. They won’t force you to give up. It might be to help you reduce how much you’re using, understand the effects, or reduce the risks. They can help you overcome the challenges that hold you back. Achieve the things that matter to you. Give you skills and strategies to help you move forward.
Telephone: 01803 200100
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Email: checkpoint@childrenssociety.org.uk
Website: CheckPoint | The Children's Society (childrenssociety.org.uk)
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
SMART Recovery
A UK-wide charity that offers face to face and online meetings to help people to manage their recovery from any type of addictive behaviour. It holds regular meetings in Torbay.
Telephone: 01803 604330
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
Email: torbaysmartrecovery@gmail.com
Website: www.smartrecovery.org.uk
Address: Endeavour House, 228 Union St, Torquay TQ2 5QS
Referral Method: Self-referral
Self-care and National Support Services
Child Exploitation Online Protection (CEOP)
Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) is a law enforcement agency providing support and advice for children, adults or teachers about keeping children safe from sexual abuse and grooming online. Submit a report online https://www.ceop.police.uk/ceop-reporting/
Website: https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/11_18/
Childline
Childline provide free, confidential support to children about any topic, including modern slavery and human trafficking. Support is available to anyone under the age of 19 years. Online 1-2-1 chats with counsellors and email options are also available. See their website for more details.
Telephone: 0800 1111 (Available 24hrs a day 7 days a week)
Website: www.childline.org.uk
CrimeStoppers
An independent crime-fighting charity in the UK allows people to call or pass on information about crime anonymously.
Telephone: 0800 555 111
Website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org
Safeline- National Helpline for Male Survivors
Safeline provides specialist, tailored support for anyone affected by or at risk of sexual abuse and rape, that empowers them to make choices about the lives they want and helps prevent abuse. They provide support to anyone but also offer a dedicated phone service for male survivors of sexual violence.
Telephone: 01926 402 498 (Safeline) or 0808 800 5005 (National Male Survivor Helpline)
Website: Home - Safeline - Believe in you - Surviving sexual abuse & rape
NSPCC
If you’re worried about a child, even if you are unsure, the NSPCC helpline is available for advice from a trained counsellor. You don't have to say who you are. You might be looking for guidance and support on issues affecting children. Whatever it is you're worried about, their dedicated child protection specialists will be able to help.
Telephone: 0808 800 5000 Mon-Fri 10am-8pm
Website: www.nspcc.org.uk
NWG- Say Something If You See Something Awareness Campaign
Say Something If You See Something is an all year round National Campaign which provides a proactive, partnership approach towards the prevention of child exploitation and trafficking in a range of trades. It provides and extensive range of resources and support for organisations to raise awareness of Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking, as well as guidance on how to respond effectively and protect vulnerable young people.
Support Advice and Guidance is also available from the CSE Response Unit based at the NWG premises in Derby. The CSE Response Unit is for all professionals from all sectors who want to understand and improve their response to CSE, this multi-disciplinary team provides excellent support on all matters related to Child Sexual Exploitation, Trafficking and Modern-Day Slavery.
Telephone: 0300 303 3032 (CSE Response Unit)
Email: ru@nwgnetwork.org (CSE Response Unit)
Website: Say Something If You See Something Awareness Campaign - NWG Network
PACE (Parents Against Child Exploitation)
Pace is a national charity working to keep children safe from exploitation by supporting their parents, disrupting the offenders and working in partnership with police and family services. They also train professionals to support affected children and their parents using a trauma-informed, family-centric approach. They take referrals directly from parents who have concerns and need support.
Telephone: 0113 240 3040
Website: https://paceuk.info/
Report Remove-Remove a Nude Image Shared Online (Run by Childline)
Report Remove helps young people under 18 in the UK to confidentially report sexual images and videos of themselves and remove them from the internet. Having your nudes shared can feel scary, and it can leave you feeling worried or even ashamed. But it’s not your fault. It’s against the law for anyone to share a sexual image or video of someone who’s under 18, and Childline are working with the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) and Yoti to help you remove any sexual image or video of you that’s online.
Report Remove is safe, easy and free- visit the website address below for more information.
Website: Report Remove | Childline
Runaway Helpline
Runaway Helpline is here if you are thinking about running away, if you have already run away, or if you have been away and come back. You can also contact them if you are worried that someone else is going to run away or if they are being treated badly or abused. Runaway Helpline has been supporting young people for many years and is run by the UK charity Missing People.
Telephone: 116000 (call or text for free, 9am-11pm 7 days a week)
Website: Homepage - Runaway Helpline
Sarah’s Law
The Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme (CSODS) lets you formally ask the police whether someone who has contact with a child or children has a record for child sexual (paedophile) offences poses a risk to the child or children for some other reason. It's not a law, but it is sometimes called 'Sarah's Law'. It gives guidance on how you can ask us to use our existing police powers to share information about sex offenders. If you’re worried about someone’s behaviour towards a child, or something you've seen, heard, or been told, you can use Sarah's Law to find out if that person is a risk. You must apply for information about a specific person and a specific child or children they spend time with. You cannot apply for general information about child sex offenders.
Who can apply?
Anyone who is worried about someone's behaviour towards a child can apply, not just a child's parents. This includes people like a grandparent, neighbour, or friend. No matter who makes the application, if there is information we decide to share, we will tell whoever can use the information to keep the child safe. This might not be the person who made the application, it might be someone else (like the child's parents).
Local Support Services
Barnardo’s Exceed Service
Barnardo's Exceed Service is commissioned by the Office for the Police and Crime Commissioner and Torbay Council to support young people aged 8-18 who live in Devon, Cornwall, Plymouth and Torbay where there are concerns around Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE).
They also work with 18-25s who are care experienced or who have additional needs, as well as supporting parents and carers and professionals to tackle CSE across Devon and Cornwall.
Telephone: 01752 256339
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm (closed on bank holidays)
Email: exceed@barnardos.org.uk
Website: www.barnardosexceed.org.uk
Plymouth and Exeter Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC)
The Plymouth and Exeter SARCs (Sexual Assault Referral Centres) offer 24 hour access to counselling and services to support anyone of any age who has experienced rape or sexual assault. This could have been recently or in the past. Services offered include; forensic medical facilities and examination, emotional and practical support and sexual health and contraception information and services. Support staff and medical services are available at any time of the day or night. This can be with or without the need for police involvement.
There are Sexual Assault Referral Centre's (SARC) in Truro, Exeter & Plymouth, please click on the link below to find your nearest centre.
Plymouth and Exeter Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) Children’s service
The SARCs offer a dedicated children’s service for children up to their 18th birthday who have been raped or sexually assaulted.
If you or somebody you know has been a victim of non-recent sexual assault you can get help by calling 0300 3034626 or by filling in a quick referral form.
Children who have experienced recent cases of sexual assault (10 days or less ago) in Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are cared for at the centres. They will be given immediate medical care, a forensic medical assessment, emergency contraception if required, and support and advice about what to do next.
Telephone: 0300 303 4626
Email: Online Referral Form Get help - Devon & Cornwall SARC - NHS (sarchelp.co.uk)
If you are a Police Officer referring a victim into the ISVA Service, you must use the below secure online referral form. Please do not use First Light's own website or advise victims to report directly.
Secure online referral - Devon & Cornwall SARC - NHS (sarchelp.co.uk)
Website: Home - Devon & Cornwall SARC - NHS (sarchelp.co.uk)
You can find your local SARC centre here: Find Rape and sexual assault referral centres services - NHS (www.nhs.uk
Referral Method: Telephone for self-referral or via professional referral form online
Self-care and National Support Services
The Money Helper Service (Government backed service)
Free and impartial money advice, set up by the government. Providing advice and guides to help improve your finances. They also have tools and calculators to help keep you on track and plan ahead. They provide support over the phone and online, via WhatsApp and Webchat. See their website for more details.
Telephone: 0800 138 7777
Website: 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.
To find your nearest Citizens Advice please click on the link below. Scroll down and enter your postcode or town to get contact details for your nearest Citizens Advice.
Telephone: 0800 144 8848
Website: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/
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.
Telephone: 0808 808 4000
Website: https://www.nationaldebtline.org/
StepChange Debt Charity
StepChange helps change lives, helping you be free from Debt by getting your finances back on track. They will give you debt advice, a personalised plan to deal with your debts, while providing a wide range of debt solutions and services. Their expert advice is impartial and personalised to each individual situation.
Telephone: 0800 138 1111
Website: https://www.stepchange.org/
PayPlan
PayPlan's supportive, non-judgemental team of advisers help thousands of people beat their debts. They understand the recent cost of living increases will be putting a strain on your finances. They can help in many ways, such as; with contacting people you owe money to and arranging lower payments to make things more affordable.
Their website has tools such as budget calculator's and tips to help you save money help you with budget and plan, to get you back on track.
Telephone: 0800 280 2816
Website: www.payplan.com
Debt Advice Foundation
Debt Advice Foundation is a national debt advice and education charity offering free, confidential support and advice to anyone worried about debt.
Telephone: 0800 043 40 50
Website: 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.
Website: https://www.findyourcreditunion.co.uk/
Christians Against Poverty – CAP
CAP offer free, expert debt help and they will support you all the way to becoming debt free. No matter how large or small your problem is. The first step is often the hardest, but it’s worth it. If CAP is not available in your area you can still other services available to you on their website. You can check if CAP provide support i your area by using their postcode search, follow the link here: CAP UK | Contact us
Telephone: 0800 328 0006
Website: CAP UK | Home
Local Support Services
Torbay
Torbay Council
Torbay Council understand the rise in the cost of living is making things hard for households. They want to support their residents to the best of their ability. If you need advice or urgent help, it’s out there and the sooner you seek it, the better. This can come from the Council, their other local partners, government schemes and programmes. There is a lot of information on the Help for Households website, which has details of benefits and grants available as well as discounts and promotions for national retailers.
Website: Help with the cost of living - Torbay Council
Torbay Food Banks- Torbay Food Alliance
How to access a foodbank Parcel in Torbay
To access a foodbank parcel you need to provide a foodbank voucher. If you are already linked in with a professional agency, firstly check if they are maybe able to assist with issuing you a voucher. Alternatively, please contact Torbay Community Helpline part of Torbay Food Alliance who will be able to advice you about the process and raise a foodbank voucher for you.
Telephone: 01803 446022
Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 10am-1pm and 3pm to 6pm and Sat, 11:30am-12:30pm
Website: Torbay Community Helpline | Torbay Food Alliance
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Torbay Community Helpline
The Torbay Community Helpline doesn’t just assist with foodbank vouchers, it is a one-stop-shop for access to advice, information, and referrals to a whole range of support in the community. Call or use the online form on their website to ask for help or signposting about anything including; benefits, debt, and finance, housing issues, activities and groups in your area, mental and physical wellbeing, caring for someone, accessing training and skills, domestic abuse, volunteering.
Telephone: 01803 446022
Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm and Sat, 11:30am-12:30pm
Website: Torbay Community Helpline | Torbay Food Alliance
Address: Please Drop in if you need to see someone face to face.
- Torquay: Community Cafe & Help Hub Temperance Street (down the slope next to McDonalds in Union Street). Open 10am- 3pm Mon-Fri
- Paignton: Community Help Hub at Paignton Library open from 9:30am every day except Sunday
Referral Method: Self-referral
St Mary Magdalene Church, Upton, Food Provision
The Living Room (community café) offers a free hot meal, hot drinks, a warm space, a smile, and a listening ear. Donations are gratefully accepted but not expected. All are equally welcome. If referred by the Torbay Food Alliance, food parcels can be collected from the church on Tuesday afternoons.
Opening hours: Foodbank on Tuesdays 2pm to 5pm, and the Living Room Community Café Wednesday and Friday 10:30am to 1pm.
Website: The Living Room | St Mags Torquay
Address: St Mary Magdalene Church, Union Street, Torquay, TQ1 4BX
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
South Hams
South Hams District Council
Provide cost of living information for residents find help and support quickly and easily when they need it. This includes local warm spaces, financial assistance, help with energy costs and support for vulnerable people. They have also created a directory of support services and charities that can help wide range of issues linked to cost of living, including foodbanks, mobility assistance, caring, mental health and more with operating in the South Hams and West Devon.
Website: Support Directory - South Hams District Council
South Hams District Council Foodbanks
South Hams District’s main Foodbanks are run via the Trussell Trust. It is a National network of Foodbanks, to find the nearest to you please be directed to the website link below.
Trussell Trust
As most Foodbanks the Trussell Trust work with referral agencies to issue food vouchers to those in need of emergency food in time of crisis. They know that anyone can find themselves at crisis point for several different reasons.
Getting a voucher
The voucher referral system ensures you are provided with the right help and support for you. To get help from the Foodbank you will need to be referred with a voucher.
Referral Process
To provide the most appropriate help for the circumstances of your situation we work with local agencies. Each Foodbank works with different frontline professionals, like doctors, health visitors, social workers, and Citizens Advice. These professionals will be able to refer you to a foodbank and give you a foodbank voucher if they think you need emergency food.
If you are struggling to get a voucher and need help, please contact your nearest Trussell Trust Foodbank directly.
Using your voucher
Once you have been given a voucher, you can exchange this for a minimum of three days’ emergency food at your nearest food bank centre.
Website: Foodbanks - South Hams District Council
Teignbridge District Council
Teignbridge District Council understand the impact of rising energy, fuel, inflation, and food prices is being felt across the district, and more and more people need a bit of extra help or advice to stay afloat. It’s important everyone knows how to access support if they are struggling during the cost-of-living crisis.
Teignbridge Council work with organisations like Teignbridge CVS, Citizen’s Advice Teignbridge and local food banks to help you. If you are struggling, please contact the council or one of their partner agencies for advice and support on the links provided below.
Website(s):
- Cost of living help and support - Teignbridge District Council
- Cost Of Living | Support | Teignbridge CVS (teigncvs.org.uk)
- Citizen’s Advice Teignbridge
- Food banks - Teignbridge District Council
Teignbridge Foodbanks
Food banks provide the basic food requirements for households in financial crisis. They can also help with costs toward some essential services, such as electricity and gas.
Teignbridge Homeless Action Today-THAT
THAT provide high quality food packs put together from donated and bought food items. They include a large variety of foods - including tinned and fresh items - and some basic toiletries in each pack. Each pack is designed to last 8 days. Each pack varies according to the client's needs and what is in stock. Pet food and baby food are also available for packs, and they can supply gas and electricity top-ups.
They also provide special packs for clients who are homeless that contain items that can be prepared without the use of a cooker or kitchen equipment.
You do not need a referral for your first request for help from THAT and they accept proof of receipt of benefit. For on-going support referrals are available from CAB, Housing Association, Council Housing Dept, Schools, Job Centre, Churches, Support workers etc. Please contact them for further details.
Telephone: 01626 437310
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am- 1pm
Email: thatfoodbank@gmail.com
Website: THAT Foodbank | Newton Abbot
Address: THAT Place, 8 Queensway House, Buckland, Newton Abbot, TQ12 4BA
Referral Method: Self-referral
Homeless in Teignbridge Support (HITS) Foodbank
Homeless In Teignbridge Support (HITS) foodbank provides support for anyone in need and homeless throughout Teignbridge. They need a referral from an agency such as the citizens Advice Bureau or Job Centre, who first assess your need. The referrer then phones HITS to follow process so the individual in need can then access a food parcel.
Telephone: 01626 906371 (office hours and out of hours emergencies)
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm
Email: info@hitsfoodbank.org
Website: Services – Homeless in Teignbridge Support (HITS) Foodbank (hitsfoodbank.org)
Referral Method: Self-referral
If cost of living pressures is affecting your mental health please look at the Mental Wellbeing Topic showing support services in your area.
Self-care and National Support Services
If you are in danger, please dial 999 immediately or 101 in a non-emergency.
If you're unable to speak when you dial 999, use 'The Silent Solution': Wait for the operator to speak and type 55 on your keypad. This will alert the operator that you need help.
Refuge- National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Providing advice and support for women and children, against domestic violence. If you are seeking immediate support please call, support can be provided in many different languages including BSL. Any messages you send won’t leave any trace on your email and they won’t leave voicemails when calling back for safety reasons.
Telephone: 0808 200 0247 – 24 Hours
Website: Home | Refuge National Domestic Abuse Helpline (nationaldahelpline.org.uk)
Women's Aid
A national charity working to end domestic abuse against women and children. They provide online help and support to women and children suffering domestic abuse, help to access refuge accommodation, outreach services and Independent Domestic Violence Advocacy (IDVA).
Email: helpline@womensaid.org.uk
Live chat: Live Chat | Women's Aid Live Chat (womensaid.org.uk)
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
Men's Advice Line
A confidential helpline, run by Respect, for men experiencing domestic violence from a partner or ex-partner (or from other family members). Their focus is to increase the safety of men experiencing domestic abuse (and the safety of their children).
Telephone: 0808 801 0327
Website: http://www.mensadviceline.org.uk/
Galop-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.
Telephone: 0800 999 5428
Website: https://galop.org.uk/get-help/helplines/
Rights of Women - helping women through their rights in law
They give free legal advice and information to women in England and Wales on a wide range of issues including domestic violence, child contact, sexual violence and the criminal justice process, immigration and asylum, sexual harassment at work as well as other legal issues arising from relationship breakdown.
Telephone: 020 7490 0152 – Monday 3pm-5pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 6pm-8pm
Website: Sexual harassment at work - Rights of WomenRights of Women
Respect
Respect offer a confidential and anonymous helpline offering advice, information, and support for anyone concerned about their violence and/or abuse towards a partner or ex-partner of either sex.
Telephone: 0808 802 4040
Website: respectphoneline.org.uk
Relate
Relate can help you with pressing concerns that are affecting your relationships. This could be with your partner, a child, a family member, or friend. The service offers relationship counselling for partners and individuals, sex therapy, family counselling and counselling for children and young people.
Contact us: Find your Centre | Relate
Website: Home | Relate
Victim Support
Victim Support provide emotional and practical help to people who have been affected by domestic abuse in Devon and Cornwall. They are independent charity, and you can contact them regardless of whether you’ve contacted the police, and no matter how long ago the crime took place.
Telephone: National 0808 1689 111- 24 Hours
Devon and Cornwall: 0300 3030 554 Mon-Fri 12pm-6pm
Website: https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/
Claire's Law
This scheme enables the police to release information about any previous history of violence or abuse a person might have. Under Clare's Law you can:
- Apply for information about your current or ex-partner because you're worried they may have a history of abuse and are a risk to you
- Request information about the current or ex-partner of a friend or relative because you're worried, they might be at risk.
Please note: The Clare’s Law (DVDS) scheme does not replace: CRB (Criminal Record Bureau) Checks, DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks, subject access requests or FOI requests.
Local Support Services
Torbay Domestic Abuse Service (TDAS) *Torbay only*
Providing confidential, non-judgemental support, advice and protection, for all victims of domestic abuse. TDAS helps people to make informed choices about their safety, health, housing and other identified needs. They provide support whether people wish to leave relationships, stay or have left. They can provide one-to-one and group support sessions, and safe refuge houses. You have the right to feel safe.
Telephone: 0800 916 1474, Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
Email: TDAS.service@sanctuary.co.uk
Website: www.sanctuary-supported-living.co.uk/tdas
Address: Woodview House, Torbay Business Park, Woodview Road, Paignton, TQ4 7HP
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
FearLess *Excluding Torbay*
Formerly Splitz, FearLess supports people dealing with domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking for over 25 years. They offer 1-to-1 victim support for adults, children and young people with experience of domestic abuse and 1-to-1 support for perpetrators.
Telephone: 0345 155 1074
Email: For clients or those who do not use secure emails: admin.devon@fear-less.org.uk
For professionals using a secure email address: referrals.devon@fear-less.org.uk.cjsm.net
Website: Fear-less - Devon
Address: 1st Floor, Buckland House, Pavilion 3, Park 5 Business Centre, Harrier Way, Exeter, EX2 7HU
Referral Method: Self referral or via professional
SAFE Foundation
A trauma informed service that supports people experiencing domestic abuse. They deliver a range of therapeutic programmes and support adults and children experiencing difficulties in life. Their community-based therapeutic programmes are delivered through a range of interventions from individual and group counselling to organisational guidance, training and workshops.
Telephone: 03030 300 112
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9am-5pm (all appointments must be pre-booked with counsellors in advance)
Email: intake@wearesafe.org.uk
Website: SAFE Foundation (wearesafe.org.uk)
Address: 1 Alba Court, Emperor Way, Exeter, EX1 3QS
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Ladies Lounge
This service supports vulnerable women in the Torbay area, who have been affected by the trauma of domestic abuse and are in need of emotional support, advice and information. To register your interest, please contact this service first to join one of their groups.
Telephone: 078951 55965
Opening Hours: Currently meet twice a week Monday 10:30am until 1pm and Wednesday 2pm until 4pm
Email: ladies.lounge58@gmail.com
Website: Ladies Lounge – Supporting vulnerable women in Torbay (ladies-lounge.co.uk)
Address: The Youth Basement, Upton Vale Baptist Church, TQ1 3HY
Referral Method: Self-referral
Refuge 4 Pets
Refuge4Pets provides a specialist animal fostering service across Devon and Cornwall to victims/survivors of domestic violence and abuse so that they can leave with their much-loved pets.
Telephone: 0300 4000 121 Mon-Fri 10am-4pm
Email: info@refuge4pets.org.uk
Contact Form: https://refuge4pets.org.uk/professional-referral-form/
Website: Refuge4Pets | Helping people and animals escape domestic abuse
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Make Amends Restorative Justice Service
This service aims to bring those who have been affected by crime into communication with those who are accountable. This is voluntary and is a way to help everyone move forward from what has happened. Restorative Justice between those affected and accountable for harm should always be facilitated by accredited practitioners.
Telephone number: 01803 222033
Email: makeamends@shekinah.co.uk
Website: Shekinah - Make Amends
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Self-care and National Support Services
What to do if there is a Fire
- You should get out of the property, stay out and call 999
- Keep calm and act quickly get everyone out as soon as possible
- Close all doors behind you, if it is safe to do this
- Do not tackle the fire yourself
- Before you open a door check if it’s warm, if it is do not open it as fire may be on the other side
- If there is smoke, keep low where the air is clearer
- If your clothes catch fire, you should lie down and roll around. If possible, smother the flames with a heavy material such as a coat or a blanket – remember – STOP, DROP and ROLL
What to do if you cannot get out
- If safe to do so gather everyone into one room, ideally with a window and a phone
- Put bedding around the bottom of the door to block out smoke
- Call 999 and an operator will offer survival advice whilst you are on the phone
- If you do not have access to a phone, open the window and shout “HELP FIRE”
Fire and Rescue Service Home Safety
Please use the Local Support and Contact details section below for signposting information to request either a Home Safety visit for further Fire Safety advice from the Fire and Rescue Service.
Online home safety check
As most Fire and Rescue Services have waiting lists for home visits, you can do a home self-assessment using the Safelincs online home fire safety check tool.
You can use the tool to:
- identify fire risks in your home
- learn how you can reduce the risks
- create your own home fire safety plan.
Complete your own online home safety check using this link: HFSC (safelincs.co.uk)
Further information on Home Safety Visits can be found on the local area links below:
Hoarding UK
What you can do
- If you know a friend, family member, or someone you care for is hoarding, talk to them about the fire home safety visit service.
- A friendly Fire and Rescue service staff member will visit them in their home to give advice and guidance without judgement or embarrassment.
- If someone wants to get rid of items, professional help is available. There is a register of professional declutterers who can work with people to support them to remove excess belongings.
- Show this video of a firefighter talking about his own experience with hoarding (5 minute video) Hoarding | Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (dsfire.gov.uk)
Safety tips to prevent a fire in a hoarded home
If someone you know lives in a home that is full of belongings, help them to live more safely by:
- helping them to plan and practise a fire escape plan. Stress the importance of clear routes and exits in case of a fire. Practise the plan often. Exit routes may change as new items are brought into the home.
- installing working smoke alarms in the home. Test them every week (or at least once a month).
- making sure flammable items (such as tea towels, dishcloths, and clothes) are kept away from portable heaters, the stove or the oven
- checking electrical wiring - it may be old or worn from the weight of their possessions. Pests can chew on wires. Damaged wires can start fires.
- helping them to manage their paperwork - newspapers and mail are particularly flammable. Recycle newspapers and post as soon as it is finished with. In the event of a fire, they would cause it to spread rapidly.
- encouraging safer smoking habits such as smoking outside, discarding cigarettes in a suitable ashtray, and regularly emptying ashtrays.
- Book a home safety visit and the Fire and Rescue Service can install free smoke alarms and specialist equipment and have a conversation with the person about keeping safe in their home.
Hoarding UK support people affected by hoarding behaviours. Their aim is to empower individuals experiencing hoarding behaviours to achieve spatial and personal change, to reduce isolation and improve their health and well-being. They are a multi-service organisation, helping thousands of people over ten years of service.
Local Support Services
For further information and guidance, please refer to the 'Act' section above which contains links to National and Regional support.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
If you have fire safety concerns about anyone you know or work with, you can make a referral to us to see if they are eligible for a Home Safety visit.
Telephone: 0800 05 02 999 – Request a Home Safety Visit
Website: Book a home safety visit | Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (dsfire.gov.uk) Online Referral Pathway (Self-Help and Partner Referral).
If you or the occupier are not eligible for a Home Safety Visit, you will be sent free tailored advice to keep you and your family safe in your home.
A Home Safety Visit is carried out by trained Fire and Rescue service staff, on a pre-arranged appointment date.
If you are referring someone to Devon and Somerset, please use partner code 023 for Devon and Cornwall Police.
If you are concerned due to a threat of arson in Devon, please call 0800 05 02 999 during office hours (Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm), or send an email marked as ‘high importance’ with ‘ARSON THREAT’ in the subject line, along with any additional risks and information to firekills@dsfire.gov.uk so that the referral can be processed as quickly as possible. Out of hours, Police Officers or Staff can refer using the PPN (Public Protection Notice) which will be assessed and shared by the Central Safeguarding Team.
Self-care and National Support Services
CrimeStoppers
CrimeStoppers is an independent charity that provides advice on how to protect people from crime and offers a completely anonymous crime reporting service 365 days a year. If you know someone who may be violent or abusive to someone because of their disability, race, religion, transgender identity or sexual orientation you can contact CrimeStoppers to report it anonymously. Due to their anonymity guarantee, they can't take information from victims of hate crime. In an emergency, always call 999. If you are a victim of hate crime, call the police or contact Victim Support.
Telephone: 0800 555 111
Online Form: anonymous online form
Website: Hate crime | Crimestoppers (crimestoppers-uk.org)
True Vision
True Vision is a police-funded website designed to providing information about Hate Crime. The website has a range of downloadable tools (based on practice developed across policing) that can assist in developing partnerships. These products include guidance on how non-statutory groups can be engaged to establish effective partnerships.
Individuals can report incidents here which will be forwarded to the local police and will be recorded. As long as they do not report anonymously, an officer will contact them back.
Website: https://www.met.police.uk/tv/true-vision-report-hate-crime/
Victim support
Experiencing hate crime can be a particularly frightening experience the attack is very personal and specifically targeted. Hate incidents can feel like crimes to people who suffer them and often escalate to crimes or tension in a community. You can report such incidents, but the police can only prosecute when the law is broken. However, the police can work with other organisations to prevent the situation escalating.
Victim support want to help support you to recover from hate crime and hate incidents;
Telephone: 0300 303 0554 Mon-Fri 12pm-6pm
Out of hours support line: 0808 1689 111 (available 365 Days a Year)
Website: Hate crime - Victim Support
Equality Advisory Support Service
The EASS has a helpline to give information and guidance on discrimination and human rights issues. The service is free and fully accessible by phone, email and video link for those who wish use British Sign Language. The service provides access to advocacy services for those with mental ill health and people with a learning disability.
Telephone: 0808 800 0082 Freephone - Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm
Website: http://www.equalityadvisoryservice.com
Tell Mama
A national project supporting victims of anti-Muslim hate and monitoring anti-Muslim incidents. Reports can be made via; Telephone, Email, SMS, Facebook or Twitter. A trained case worker will take the issue further with individuals who connect with the service and ensure they have details to record the incident and offer them support.
Telephone: 0800 456 1226
Website: https://tellmamauk.org/
Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Support
An organisation planning to end racism and discrimination against Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people and to protect the right to pursue a nomadic way of life. They support and provide advice to individuals and families with the issues that matter most to them.
Telephone: 01273 234 777 Open Mon-Fri, 10am-4:30pm excluding Bank Holidays
Website: https://www.gypsy-traveller.org/
Galop
A national charity 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. A person can refer themselves into this services, or be referred by someone else.
Telephone: 0800 999 5428 (Mon-Thurs 10am-8:30pm, Fri 10am-4:30pm)
Website: https://galop.org.uk/
The Beaumont Society
The Beaumont Society operates a national information line providing help and support for the transgender community. This information line contains the telephone numbers of all the societies regional organisers who are available to speak to for advice.
Telephone: 01582 412220 24/7, 365 days a year
Website: https://www.beaumontsociety.org.uk/contact.html
Mermaids
Mermaids supports transgender, nonbinary and gender-diverse children and young people up to their 20th birthday, as well as their families and professionals involved in their care. They also offer web chat support to students up to the age of 25. Calls to Mermaids are confidential and any details recorded will not be shared with a third party.
Telephone: 0808 801 0400 - Open Monday-Fri 9am-9pm
Website: https://mermaidsuk.org.uk/contact-us/
Respond
A national support service for people with learning difficulties who are either victims or perpetrators of sexual abuse and other trauma, and for their carers. Issues covered include bereavement, abuse, bullying, relationship and sexuality issues.
Telephone: 020 7383 0700
Website: www.respond.org.uk
ARC Safety Net Resources - Disability
A link to a range of national resources related to hate crime and disability. All resources are free to download and use.
Website: https://arcuk.org.uk/safetynet/safety-net-resources/
Local Support Services
Third Party Reporting Centres
Third Party Reporting Centres are organisations that have agreed to make reports to the police on behalf of victims who do not want to go directly to the police. The link shows a list of locations and numbers where hate incidents may be reported to encourage victims to report at a location of their choice.
This link also provides some further information about local support services available for diversity groups.
Website: How to report hate crime | Devon & Cornwall Police (devon-cornwall.police.uk)
Make Amends Restorative Justice Service
This service aims to bring those who have been affected by crime into communication with those who are accountable. This is voluntary and is a way to help everyone move forward from what has happened. Restorative Justice between those affected and accountable for harm should always be facilitated by accredited practitioners.
Telephone number: 01803 222033
Email: makeamends@shekinah.co.uk
Website: Shekinah - Make Amends
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Diverse Ethnic Communities Service Directory for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay
This updated directory contains details of the many organisations and agencies, from all sectors, that offer support services for people from Black, Asian and Ethnically Diverse communities in Devon. It provides a more extensive list of available support across Devon, in addition to those services listed above.
Self-care and National Support Services
If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness you can ask any local housing authority for help. This is known as making a homeless application. You should seek help at the earliest possible opportunity - do not delay. If you are homeless, the local housing authority you approach will owe more duties to you if you have a local connection to their area and you should consider this when deciding which local housing authority to ask for help.
The priority for the local authority is to prevent someone from becoming homeless in the first place, wherever possible.
If you find yourself rough sleeping, there are several local organisations that can provide advice and support. However, In the first instance you should contact your local authority/council housing options service.
If you see a person sleeping rough, please report their location here: Streetlink.
Street Link
Street Link is a national service which can be used if you see people sleeping rough. Referrals can be made 24 hours a day using the hotline or online.
Telephone: 0300 500 0914 - 24-hour.
Website: www.streetlink.org.uk - You need to register to access services
Shelter
A person can contact the free Shelter helpline if they have nowhere to sleep, might be homeless soon, they have somewhere to sleep but nowhere to call home or could be at risk of harm.
Telephone: 0808 800 4444
Opening Hours: 365 days a year 8am-8pm on weekdays and 9am-5pm on weekends.
Website: https://england.shelter.org.uk/
Homeless Link
Homeless Link is the most comprehensive database of homelessness services. With over 1500 projects up and down the country providing contact details and service descriptions, it's for individuals to access the link to find local services and projects they can contact direct.
Website: Homeless Link
Citizens Advice- Homelessness
Provide advice on applying for homeless help from the council, including making an application and challenging a decision.
To find your nearest Citizens Advice please click on the contact link below. On the new link scroll down and enter your postcode or town to get contact details for your nearest Citizens Advice.
Contact: Contact us - Citizens Advice
Website: Homelessness - Citizens Advice
Local Support Services
South Hams District Council
If you are at risk of becoming homeless, please complete the online registration form linked below to make an application and an officer will contact you within 3 working days. If you are already homeless, please call and make clear your circumstances and ask for rough sleeper’s support.
Telephone: 01803 861234 9am-5pm or out of hours 01803 867034
Online Form: the online registration form
Website: Housing | South Hams District Council
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Teignbridge District Council
Teignbridge District Council offer a homeless application to anyone rough sleeping and temporary accommodation where possible. This is assessed on a case by case basis and the applicant must be willing to engage with services to help them move on from temporary accommodation.
Telephone: 01626 361101 or out of hours 0330 678 2382
Opening hours: Monday - Thursday 8:30am – 5pm & Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Email: housing@teignbridge.gov.uk
Website: Housing - Teignbridge District Council
Address: Forde House, Brunel Road, Newton Abbot, TQ12 4XX
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Torbay Council
People become homeless for lots of reasons and often through no fault of their own. The Torbay Council website provides information about who to contact if you are homeless, fear you may become homeless or think a homeless person may need help. The advice and support available depends on your circumstances and can be anything from one-off advice to being accommodated in emergency housing, while they help you find longer-term accommodation.
Telephone: 01803 208723 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) out of hours 0300 456 4876
Online Form: Housing Advice (torbay.gov.uk)
Website: Homelessness - Torbay Council
Worried you might lose your home - Torbay Council
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
The Thrive Project
Helping people in Torbay to survive. Based in Paignton The Thrive Project is a community hub for vulnerable & homeless people.
Telephone: 07787 716089
Email: thriveprojectuk@gmail.com
Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 11am-2pm
Website: Thrive Project | Don’t just survive... Thrive
Address: 44 Totnes Road, Paignton, TQ4 5DL
Referral Method: Self-referral
Shekinah
Shekinah aims to help people make changes towards a positive future and offers a wide range of services and support for the whole community. This includes help with all areas of health, finding employment as well as assistance with housing and making a homeless application.
Telephone: Endeavour House 01803 203895
Email: reception@shekinah.co.uk
Opening hours: Everyday 9am-4pm
Website: Shekinah - Building lives & futures
Address: Endeavour House, 228 Union Street, Torquay, TQ2 5QS
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
YMCA NIGHTSTOP
Offering support to 16–25-year-olds presenting as homeless or sofa-surfing. NIGHTSTOP provides emergency, overnight accommodation for young people. NIGHTSTOP guests are placed in the homes of a trained and vetted volunteer host who provide a safe and secure place for a young person to sleep.
Telephone: 07519 374592
Email: nightstop@ymcasouthdevon.org.uk
Website: Nightstop | YMCA South Devon
Address: Dartmouth Road, Clennon Valley, Goodrington Sands, TQ4 6NX
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
PATH Torbay
Food and support service for anyone facing homelessness and crisis in Torbay. As well as providing practical support such as food and essentials, they also connect with other statutory services and local charities.
Telephone: 07763398238
Email: Pathtorbay@outlook.com
Opening hours: 5 days a week drop-in service, Mon-Thurs 2pm- 7pm Sat 4pm- 7pm
Website: https://m.facebook.com/PATHtorbay/
Address: 172 Union Street, Torquay, TQ2 5QP
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
St Mary Magdalene Church, Upton, Food Provision
The Living Room (community café) offers a free hot meal, hot drinks, a warm space, a smile, and a listening ear. Donations are gratefully accepted but not expected. All are equally welcome. If referred by the Torbay Food Alliance, food parcels can be collected from the church on Tuesday afternoons.
Opening hours: Foodbank on Tuesdays 2pm to 5pm, and the Living Room Community Café Wednesday and Friday 10:30am to 1pm.
Website: The Living Room | St Mags Torquay
Address: St Mary Magdalene Church, Union Street, Torquay, TQ1 4BX
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
For further support with food such as food banks please go to the ‘cost-of-living topic'
Self-care and National Support Services
What can I do if I think someone I know is carrying a knife?
- In an emergency call police on 999
- If it’s not an emergency, you can contact police on 101
- you can report to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or online crimestoppers-uk.org
- you can report through Fearless anonymously online fearless.org
What should I do if someone is stabbed?
You should call 999 immediately giving details of the incident so that help can be arranged as soon as possible.
If you want to know what to do if this happens, the following websites might be useful:
What do I do if I am worried about someone carrying a knife?
Tell someone you trust.
Report it to police or through Crimestoppers or Fearless.
View and share the advice available through:
What can I do if my business sells knives?
View the attached ‘Guide to storing, displaying, and selling knives’ for advice on how to trade in knives safely.
Local Support Services
For information about what to do if you're concerned someone you know might be carrying a knife or for more information and guidance, please refer to the 'Act' section above which contains links to National and Regional support.
Self-care and National Support Services
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.
Website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/diagnosis/
The Alzheimer's Society
Alzheimer’s Society is the UK’s leading dementia charity. They campaign for change, fund research to find a cure and support people living with dementia today. You can contact their dementia advisers using the telephone number below.
Telephone: 0333 150 3456
Website and guides : https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/
The dementia guide: Living well after your diagnosis
Caring for a person with dementia: A practical guide
Dementia UK
Looking for information or advice about dementia or Alzheimer’s. Please make contact with Dementia UK. Their Helpline provides support from dementia specialist and admiral nurses.
Telephone: 0800 888 6678
Email: helpline@dementiauk.org
Website: Specialist support to families facing dementia | Dementia UK
TIDE - Together In Dementia Everyday
Tide aims to connect, mobilise and enable carers of people with dementia to recognise their own value and contributions to society. Offering carers opportunities to use their individual and collective experiences of caring to influence policy and practise.
Telephone: 0151 237 2669
Email: carers@tide.uk.net
Website: Together in dementia everyday. When no one else was here for me, tide were beside me
Carers UK
Are you caring for a family member or someone else close to you? We are here for unpaid carers with expert information, advice and support and campaign to make life better for carers.
Telephone: 0808 808 7777
Email: advice@carersuk.org
Website: Carers UK
Age UK
Age UK is the leading charity for older people. Visit Age UK today for a wide range of information and advice including a specific section on dementia support. You can use the service finder on their website to find local Age UK support near you.
Telephone: 0800 678 1602
Website: Age UK | The UK's leading charity helping every older person who needs us
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.
Website: 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.
This form is to record information about the person you care for; this will be used by the police and search teams in the event that the person goes missing. Wherever possible, complete the form in advance and keep in a safe place to give to the police in the event of the person going missing. The contents of this form will help the search teams gather relevant information and begin searching. Recording this information ahead of time and keeping it regularly updated will greatly reduce any stress associated with trying to recall detailed information in an emergency situation. If possible, please also attach a clear and recent head and shoulders photograph to this form.
If the person you care for goes missing: Phone 999 without delay
Complete the ‘Missing now’ section of the Herbert Protocol form as best you can.
Hand the form to the police when they attend your location.
Website: Click here to access The Devon and Cornwall Police Herbert Protocol Form
Local Support Services
NHS Royal Devon University Healthcare
Committed to providing the very best care possible for patients with dementia and delirium at the Royal Devon. Staff are trained to understand and support people with these conditions, providing kind, compassionate and considerate care. Other information and services available via their website below.
Telephone: 01392 411611
Address: Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Barrack Road, Exeter, Devon EX2 5DW
Website: NHS Royal Devon | Dementia
Referral Method: Via Medical Professional
Devon Memory Service- Torbay, South and West Devon
The Devon Memory Service has clinics in three locations across Devon – Exeter, Torbay and Barnstaple. Following a referral from your GP, they will assess you to try to find out why you are having memory problems and if it could be the early stages of a dementia - such as Alzheimer’s disease. Whatever the diagnosis, they will give you the information, support and treatment that you need to help you to live well and independently.
Telephone: 01803 396520
Email: dpn-tr.SouthDevonMemoryService@nhs.net
Website: Devon Memory Service - Torbay, South and West Devon | DPT
Referral Method: Via GP
Devon and Torbay Dementia Adviser Service
Their dementia support workers offer information and practical guidance to help you understand dementia, cope with day-to-day challenges, and prepare for the future. They offer information to people who are worried about their memory and ongoing support to people affected by dementia face to face, over the phone or in writing. For residents of Devon and Torbay who pay their council tax to Devon County Council or Torbay Council.
Telephone: 0300 123 2029
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm
Email: devon@alzheimers.org.uk
Website: Devon and Torbay Dementia Adviser Service
Referral Method: Self-referral for people with Dementia and their carers, family and friends
Pinpoint Devon
Pinpoint Devon provides an extensive list of support services for individuals living with Dementia and their families. Click on the link below and search for 'dementia support’
Website: https://services.pinpointdevon.co.uk/
Devon County Council - Support for adults living with dementia
It is estimated that over 13,000 people are living with dementia in Devon. If you are worried about your own or someone else’s memory, contact your, or their GP. The GP may then refer you to a Memory Clinic for diagnoses, treatment and support with dementia.
Telephone: 0345 155 1007 (Adult Social Care- Devon)
Website: https://www.devon.gov.uk/care-and-health/services-for-people-with-dementia
Referral Method: Self-referral
Devon Carers
Carers are at the heart of everything we do. They are continuously looking at ways they can improve their service, acting upon advice and feedback from carers as well as professionals. They believe that carers should be acknowledged as experts in care for their loved one and it is their role to support you in your caring role.
Telephone: 03456 434 435
Opening Hours: Helpline is available Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm and on Saturday 9am – 1pm. Closed on Sundays and bank holidays.
Email: info@devoncarers.org.uk
Website: Devoncarers.org.uk
Referral Method: Self-referral
Self-care and National Support Services
Samaritans (All age groups)
Providing mental wellbeing support nationally, including crisis support. Any time, from any phone, for FREE.
Telephone: 116 123, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Website: Contact Us | Samaritans
Hub of Hope
A mental health support database. It is provided by national mental health charity, Chasing the Stigma, and brings local, national, peer, community, charity, private and NHS mental health support and services together in one place. Enter your postcode and the website will provide you to local Mental Health support services.
Website: https://hubofhope.co.uk
SANEline
SANEline is an out-of-hours telephone helpline offering practical information, crisis care and emotional support to anybody affected by mental health problems. They also provide a free text-based support service called Textcare. You need to be 16+ to use this service.
Telephone: 0300 304 7000 - 4pm-10pm each evening, every day of the year.
Website: www.sane.org.uk
SHOUT
A free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. A text will prompt a conversation with trained volunteers. For individuals who are anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or overwhelmed and who need immediate support.
Text: 85258 - Available 24 hours a day
Website: https://giveusashout.org
Rethink
Rethink is the largest severe mental illness charity in the UK and their information and advice service offers practical help on a wide range of mental health issues.
Telephone: 0808 801 0525 - 9:30am – 4pm from Monday to Friday.
Website: https://www.rethink.org/
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.
Andy's Man Club
Andy's man Club are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. Their goal is to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation.
Meeting every Monday from 7pm (excluding Bank Holidays)
No referral or sign up required. Find your nearest group | Andy's Man Club (andysmanclub.co.uk)
Their clubs are open to any man aged 18 or over.
Website: http://andysmanclub.co.uk
MIND
'The charity for better mental health' has an extensive range of self help resources available.
Telephone: 0300 123 3393 9am-6pm Mon-Fri for non-urgent information about mental health services and support that may be available.
Website: https://www.mind.org.uk
Support Services - 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.
Telephone: 0800 138 1619 - available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
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. They also offer support via WhatsApp, Email and Support Groups both on and offline. See their website below for more information.
Telephone: 0808 1961 776 (11am-10pm, 7 days per week)
Website: 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
Papyrus - Suicide Prevention Charity (Young People)
PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide is the UK charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people. If you or a young person you know is not coping, you can contact their HOPELINE247 for confidential Suicide Prevention advice. Text and email options are also available, please visit their website for more information.
Telephone: 0800 068 41 41 - available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
Website: www.papyrus-uk.org
No self-referral route, signposting only. No professional referral route, signposting only
The Mix
The Mix provides a free, confidential helpline that gives young people in difficult situations the support and information they need to decide what they want to happen next. It could be anything from mental health, to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs. The mix can help with the feeling of loneliness, it is pretty commonplace and there are tonnes of young people feeling this way, even with social media.
The Mix is for young people who know they need help but don't know where to find it. You can contact them on social, by phone or by webchat.
Telephone: 0808 808 4994 (4pm-11pm Mon-Sat)
Website: https://www.themix.org.uk/
Kooth
Online Mental Wellbeing Community, free, safe, anonymous support for 11-19 year-olds. It is a welcoming space for digital mental health care, available to all. You can
- live chat
- journal
- message
- discussion board
- mini activities
- set goals
- access helpful resources
- speak to online community of peers
- speak to team of experienced, accredited counsellors.
To access this service please Join Kooth online to register.
Website: Home - Kooth
Young Minds UK
Young Minds provides young people with tools to look after their mental health. Their website is full of advice and information on what to do if you're struggling with how you feel. They also empower parents and adults who work with young people to be the best support they can be to young people in their lives.
Website: https://youngminds.org.uk/
Local Support Services
CRISIS SUPPORT
First Response Service (24/7) NHS mental health crisis services
Provide urgent help for people of all ages in mental health crisis. Run by Devon partnership NHS Trust.
Telephone: 0808 196 8708 (if you need help 24/7)
Website: First Response Service | Devon Partnership Trust
Referral Method: Self-referral
SUPPORT FOR ADULTS
TALKWORKS
TALKWORKS is a free and confidential NHS talking therapy service, to help adults over the age of 18, living in Devon (excluding Plymouth), improve their mental and physical wellbeing. Treatment and support includes one-to-one sessions with a therapist, group therapy sessions, wellbeing workshops and access to online self-help. If you are struggling with low mood, anxious thoughts, sleep difficulties or aren’t quite feeling yourself, help is available.
(TALKWORKS does not cover Plymouth, if you live in Plymouth, please refer to Plymouth Options)
Telephone: 0300 555 3344
Opening Hours: By appointment initially
Email: dpt.talkworks@nhs.net
Website: www.talkworks.dpt.nhs.uk
Referral Method: Self-referral
The Moorings - Torquay
The Moorings @ Devon offer mental health support to anyone aged 18+ in the Devon area, from three locations in Barnstaple, Exeter, and Torquay. They provide out of hours helpline support and there is no need for an appointment.
Telephone: 07483 991 848
Opening Hours: 10am-6pm (virtual only) and 6pm-midnight, Monday-Friday (including bank holidays)
Email: devontorquay.mhm@nhs.net
Website: https://www.mhm.org.uk/the-moorings-devon
Address: Torbay Business Centre, Lymington Road, Torquay, TQ1 4BD
Referral Method: Self-referral
Qwell
Qwell is a free, safe and an anonymous mental health and wellbeing online service. Qwell ensures that every adult 18+ living in Devon, Plymouth or Torbay has access to a choice of support to managing their own emotional health and wellbeing from qualified counsellors. No referrals are required and there are no thresholds required to access the service.
Opening hours: Website 24/7 365 days a year
Counsellors available 12pm-10pm weekday, 6pm-10pm at weekends and bank holidays. People can drop in for one-to-one instant text-based chats or book a session in advance.
Website: www.qwell.io
To access the service, visit the Qwell website, and complete a short registration process. Once registered, Qwell can be accessed 24/7 via any internet-connected device such as a laptop, smartphone or tablet.
SUPPORT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) Devon
The CAMHS team will see children and young people where there are concerns about their emotional or psychological wellbeing or mental health. CAMHS are part of Children and Family Health Devon and provide help for children and young people (under 18) in Devon (excluding Plymouth).
Telephone: 03300 245 321 (8am-5pm Mon-Fri) or 0300 555 5000 all other times.
Website: www.dpt.nhs.uk/our-services/children-and-family-health-devon/camhs
Referral Method: Self, parents/guardian or professional
Young Devon
Provide counselling, one off wellbeing sessions, victim of crime help, wellbeing cafes and group sessions to young people who are looking for support with their mental health for ages 11 to 25 across Plymouth, Devon and Torbay. Parents, carers and professionals can also request a Wellbeing conversation with a qualified practitioner to discuss their experience of supporting a young person with their wellbeing, and find out more about services and organisations that may be able to help.
Telephone: 01752 691511
Opening Hours: By appointment initially
Email: info@youngdevon.org
Website: Wellbeing | Young Devon
Referral Method: Self, parents/guardian or professional
OTHER SUPPORT
Local Directory- Devon Partnership Trust
The Devon Partnership Trust website provides information on a broad range of well-being and support services.
Website: Our services | DPT
Self-care and National Support Services
Migrant Help
Migrant Help protect people affected by displacement and exploitation, helping them thrive as individuals and recover from their trauma. Core services include Asylum Support, and those seeking asylum in the UK can come to MH to seek help with applying for accommodation and financial support, to report issues with asylum accommodation, and any other advice needed. MH can advise individuals in their language on issues such as:
- Accessing healthcare
- How to claim asylum
- Applying for asylum support including accommodation
- Notifying the Home Office if your circumstances change
- Finding legal representation
Telephone: 0808 8010 503 - A free asylum helpline available 24 hours a day
Website: http://www.migranthelpuk.org
Translated health information for migrants
Provides a list of translated information on a range of health and wellbeing subjects, translated into over 60 languages. All information targets migrant communities and subjects include:
- How to register with a GP and book a COVID-19 vaccine
- Flu vaccine information
- Infographics: Coronavirus overview and self-care
- Infographics: Migrants’ right to healthcare
- Keeping young people healthy
- Six steps to improve your wellbeing
Website: https://www.doctorsoftheworld.org.uk/translated-health-information/
Praxis
Praxis provide expert support to migrants and refugees in the UK. They are a leading expert in finding pathways out of destitution and supporting migrants facing homelessness, as well as survivors of trafficking and domestic violence and young people. They provide free immigration advice over the phone. Support includes securing rights, safe housing, influencing and advocacy and interpreting and training.
Telephone: 020 7749 7608 or 020 7749 7605 - Wednesday from 2pm to 4pm and Thursdays from 10am to 12:30pm
Website: https://www.praxis.org.uk/
The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants
JCWI provide free legal advice to asylum seekers and refugees at all stages of the legal process, including:
- Applications to the Home Office
- Entry Clearance
- Appeals
- Judicial Review
If you are in the UK without status and need free and confidential legal advice, call the helpline:
Telephone: 020 7553 7470 - Open Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10am and 1pm
Website: https://www.jcwi.org.uk/
Shelter
A person can contact the free Shelter helpline if they have nowhere to sleep or might be homeless soon, they have somewhere to sleep but nowhere to call home or could be at risk of harm. Their website also has specific information about accommodation options for Asylum Seekers.
Telephone: 0808 800 4444 - The helpline is open 365 days a year and accessible at the following times:
8am - 8pm on weekdays
9am - 5pm on weekends and bank holidays
Website: Shelter Legal England - UKVI support and conditions for support - Shelter England
Local Support Services
Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support (DCRS)
Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support provide advocacy, advice, support, education, and a welcoming communal space for asylum seekers in the region. Accessing legal representation, financial support, and appropriate housing. DCRS provide social support and a welcome into Devon and Cornwall, ensuring that asylum seekers can seek sanctuary whilst the UK government decides on their claim.
Telephone: 07823 495 931 (Tues & Fri 10am-3pm) or Plymouth Hub Freephone: 0800 456 1210
Drop in: Mon & Thurs 10am – 1pm
Email: hub@dcrs-plymouth.org
Website: DCRS | Devon & Cornwall Refugee Support (dcrs-plymouth.org)
Address: Masiande Centre, 7 Whimple Street, Plymouth, PL1 2DH
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
British Red Cross
Immediate help and longer-term support for survivors of trafficking and exploitation is available from a range of British Red Cross services. Refugee Support teams can provide help (including material assistance) for trafficked refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants. The Devon-based team can be contacted at:
Telephone: 01752 831619 or 07711 085135 (for normal calls, WhatsApp and messages)
The British Red Cross support line 0808 196 3651 is available Mon- Fri 10am-5pm and 10am-8pm on Wednesdays and can provide support in more than 200 languages, supporting people who are lonely, worried, and finding it difficult to access food or medication.
Drop-in sessions: Monday 9am-2pm: triage, signposting and appointment booking done, hot meal provided. An opportunity to socialise.
Email: plymouthrefugeesupport@redcross.org.uk
Website: Contact your local refugee service (redcross.org.uk)
Address: 18 Catherine Street, Plymouth, PL1 2AD (Advisable to book an appointment apart from emergency cases)
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Plymouth & Devon Racial Equality Council-PDREC
Their aim is to work towards the elimination of racial discrimination and to promote equality of opportunity and good relations between persons of different racial groups. They support many areas for Minority communities depending on the needs of the individual. Areas of support include; Migrant health, reporting a hate crime, domestic abuse, social isolation, and financial support including access to benefits. The service covers the whole of Devon including Torbay and Plymouth.
Telephone: 01752 224555
Opening hours: Monday -Thursday 9am-5pm and Friday 9am- 4:30pm
Email: enquires@plymouthrec.org
Website: Plymouth Racial Equality Council (plymouthanddevonrec.org.uk)
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Ubuntu Devon Counselling
Ubuntu Devon Counselling provides holistic and evidence based multi-cultural counselling service for all communities, Ubuntu Devon works alongside community networks to ensure cultural sensitivity and accessibility. Providing counselling and practical support using multi-lingual, cross-cultural support workers and volunteers.
Telephone: 01392 201572/ 01392 848741
Email: info@ubuntucousellingservices.org.uk
Website: Ubuntu Counselling Services – Multicultural counselling in Devon
Address: Ubuntu Devon, Exeter Community Centre, 17 St David's Hill, Exeter, EX4 3RG
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
First Response Service (24/7) NHS mental health crisis services
Provide urgent help for people of all ages in mental health crisis. Run by Devon partnership NHS Trust.
Telephone: 0808 196 8708 (if you need help 24/7)
Website: First Response Service | Devon Partnership Trust
Referral Method: Self-referral
Diverse Ethnic Communities Service Directory for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay
This updated directory contains details of the many organisations and agencies, from all sectors, that offer support services for people from Black, Asian and Ethnically Diverse communities in Devon. It provides a more extensive list of available support across Devon, in addition to those services listed above.
Website: DIVERSE-ETHNIC-COMMUNITIES-SERVICE-DIRECTORY-FOR-DEVON-2023-3.pdf
Self-care and National Support Services
National Ugly Mugs (NUM)
NUM caseworkers are here to provide emotional and practical support to adults across sex industries. This could be just a listening ear, help with accessing resources or support to report harm, right through to the criminal justice system and court, if that is your choice. There are four members of the casework team. Two are qualified Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs), and there is also a specialist caseworker to support sex workers of colour and those who are trans/non-binary.
Telephone: 0161 629 9861 (general enquiries) / 0800 464 7669 (Sex Workers freephone) Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Website: Victim Support – National Ugly Mugs
UK – Salvation Army
The Salvation Army provides specialist support for all adult victims of modern slavery in England and Wales. Their confidential referral helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Telephone: 0800 808 3733
Website: www.salvationarmy.org.uk
Childline
Childline provide free, confidential support to children about any topic, including modern slavery and human trafficking. Children can speak to a counsellor on the phone:
Telephone: 0800 1111- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Website: www.childline.org.uk
NSPCC
If you’re worried about a child, even if you are unsure, the NSPCC helpline is available for advice from a trained counsellor. You don't have to say who you are.
Telephone: 0808 800 5000 - Help for adults concerned about a child (Mon-Fri 10am-8pm)
Email: help@NSPCC.org.uk
Website: www.nspcc.org.uk
Pay and Work Rights Helpline - Acas
For cases of exploitation that do not meet the threshold for modern slavery. The Acas helpline is for anyone who needs employment law or workplace advice, including employers, employees and workers.
Telephone: 0300 123 1100 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
Website: Contact us | Acas
Migrant Help
Migrant Help (MH) protect people affected by displacement and exploitation, helping them thrive as individuals and recover from their trauma. Core services include Asylum Support, and those seeking asylum in the UK can come to MH to seek help with applying for accommodation and financial support, to report issues with asylum accommodation, and any other advice needed. MH can advise individuals in their language on issues such as:
- Accessing healthcare
- How to claim asylum
- Applying for asylum support including accommodation
- Notifying the Home Office if your circumstances change
- Finding legal representation
Telephone: 0808 8010 503 - A free asylum helpline available 24 hours a day
Website: http://www.migranthelpuk.org
Local Support Services
Modern Slavery is where one person controls another by exploiting a vulnerability. It is often linked with human trafficking, where a person is forced into a service against their will- usually forced work or prostitution. The control can be physical, financial or psychological.
Local services below are for those who think they are, think someone is being, have been or who are being sexually exploited in the context of modern slavery and/or human trafficking or as part of an abusive relationship in the sex industry.
Supporting Initial Access to Medical Care
Potential victims and victims, regardless of residency, can receive emergency medical treatment and some primary care services through the NHS. Health and wellbeing should be an immediate primary concern for all professionals working with potential victims. In all cases, professionals working with potential victims should support them to self-refer to appropriate NHS health services as necessary.
Plymouth and Exeter Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC)
The Plymouth and Exeter SARCs (Sexual Assault Referral Centres) offer 24 hour access to counselling and services to support anyone of any age who has experienced rape or sexual assault. This could have been recently or in the past. Services offered include; forensic medical facilities and examination, emotional and practical support and sexual health and contraception information and services. Support staff and medical services are available at any time of the day or night. This can be with or without the need for police involvement.
Telephone: 0300 303 4626
Online Referral Form: Get help - Devon & Cornwall SARC - NHS (sarchelp.co.uk)
If you are a Police Officer referring a victim into the ISVA Service, you must use the below secure online referral form. Please do not use First Light's own website or advise victims to report directly.
Secure online referral - Devon & Cornwall SARC - NHS (sarchelp.co.uk)
You can find your local SARC centre here: Find Rape and sexual assault referral centres services - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Referral Method: Telephone for self-referral or via professional refer by the online form
Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support (DCRS)
Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support provide advocacy, advice, support, education, and a welcoming communal space for asylum seekers in the region. Accessing legal representation, financial support, and appropriate housing. DCRS provide social support and a welcome into Devon and Cornwall, ensuring that asylum seekers can seek sanctuary whilst the UK government decides on their claim.
Telephone: 07823 495 931 (Tues & Fri 10am-3pm) or Plymouth Hub Freephone: 0800 456 1210
Drop in: Mon & Thurs 10am – 1pm
Email: hub@dcrs-plymouth.org
Website: DCRS | Devon & Cornwall Refugee Support (dcrs-plymouth.org)
Address: Masiande Centre, 7 Whimple Street, Plymouth, PL1 2DH
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Ubuntu Devon Counselling
Ubuntu Devon Counselling provides holistic and evidence based multi-cultural counselling service for all communities, Ubuntu Devon works alongside community networks to ensure cultural sensitivity and accessibility. Providing counselling and practical support using multi-lingual, cross-cultural support workers and volunteers.
Telephone: 01392 201572/ 01392 848741
Email: info@ubuntucousellingservices.org.uk
Website: Ubuntu Counselling Services – Multicultural counselling in Devon
Address: Ubuntu Devon, Exeter Community Centre, 17 St David's Hill, Exeter, EX4 3RG
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
British Red Cross
Immediate help and longer-term support for survivors of trafficking and exploitation is available from a range of British Red Cross services. Refugee Support teams can provide help (including material assistance) for trafficked refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants. The Devon-based team can be contacted at:
Telephone: 01752 831619 or 07711 085135 (for normal calls, WhatsApp and messages)
The British Red Cross support line 0808 196 3651 is available Mon- Fri 10am-5pm and 10am-8pm on Wednesdays and can provide support in more than 200 languages, supporting people who are lonely, worried, and finding it difficult to access food or medication.
Drop-in sessions: Monday 9am-2pm: triage, signposting and appointment booking done, hot meal provided. An opportunity to socialise.
Email: plymouthrefugeesupport@redcross.org.uk
Website: Contact your local refugee service (redcross.org.uk)
Address: 18 Catherine Street, Plymouth, PL1 2AD (Advisable to book an appointment apart from emergency cases)
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Make Amends Restorative Justice Service
This service aims to bring those who have been affected by crime into communication with those who are accountable. This is voluntary and is a way to help everyone move forward from what has happened. Restorative Justice between those affected and accountable for harm should always be facilitated by accredited practitioners.
Telephone number: 01803 222033
Email: makeamends@shekinah.co.uk
Website: Shekinah - Make Amends
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Refugee Support Devon
Refugee Support Devon provide support for people who have been forced to flee their homes in other parts of the world. Refugees are supported to rebuild their lives, are helped to settle into the local community and supported to achieve their full potential.
Telephone: 01392 682185
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm, Drop in sessions Tuesday and Thursday 2-4pm
Email: info@refugeesupportdevon.org.uk
Website: Our Vision - Refugee Support Devon
Address: Exeter Community Centre, 17 St David's Hill, Exeter EX4 3RG
Referral Method: Self-referral
Diverse Ethnic Communities Service Directory for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay
This updated directory contains details of the many organisations and agencies, from all sectors, that offer support services for people from Black, Asian and Ethnically Diverse communities in Devon. It provides a more extensive list of available support across Devon, in addition to those services listed above.
Website: DIVERSE-ETHNIC-COMMUNITIES-SERVICE-DIRECTORY-FOR-DEVON-2023-3.pdf
Self-care and National Support Services
National Ugly Mugs (NUM)
NUM caseworkers are here to provide emotional and practical support to adults across sex industries. This could be just a listening ear, help with accessing resources or support to report harm, right through to the criminal justice system and court, if that is your choice. There are four members of the casework team. Two are qualified Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs), and there is also a specialist caseworker to support sex workers of colour and those who are trans/non-binary.
Telephone: 0161 629 9861 (general enquiries) / 0800 464 7669 (Sex Workers freephone) Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Website: Victim Support – National Ugly Mugs
CrimeStoppers
Sex workers can report information anonymously about crimes committed against themselves or other sex workers to CrimeStoppers. They are an independent charity that allows you to report crime with a 100% guarantee of anonymity.
Telephone: 0800 555 111
Online Form: Give information anonymously | Crimestoppers (crimestoppers-uk.org)
Website: Independent UK charity taking crime information anonymously | Crimestoppers (crimestoppers-uk.org)
SAAFE (Support And Advice For Escorts)
A website and forum full of help, support and advice for escorts, particularly those new to the industry.
Website: https://saafe.info/main/index.php
Suzy Lamplugh Trust- National Stalking Helpline
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust aims to reduce the risk and prevalence of abuse, aggression, and violence- with a specific focus on stalking and harassment- through education, campaigning and support. They raise awareness about personal safety and stalking and can provide safety resources including personal safety alarms.
Telephone: 020 7091 0014 (General Enquiries)
National Stalking Helpline: 0808 802 0300
Website: www.suzylamplugh.org
National Sexual Health Helpline
If you need sexual health advice now, you can call the National Sexual Health Helpline for free, Mon-Fri 9am-8pm or Sat-Sun 11am-4pm. It provides information about your nearest sexual health/GUM clinic if you want screening for sexually transmitted infections, post-exposure prophylaxis or sexual health information. Your call will be treated with sensitivity and in strict confidence.
Telephone: 0300 123 7123
Website: Where can I get sexual health advice, now? - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Beyond The Streets
They offer a free confidential support service for women in the sex industry. Women support workers are available to take your call Mon-Thurs 9:30am-3:30pm and Fri 9:30am until noon. If no one is available to take your call, or you call outside of these times, leave your phone number or email address and someone will get in contact with you.
Telephone: 0800 133 7870
Website: https://beyondthestreets.org.uk/i-want-support
If you're being forced into any kind of sex work, this is sexual exploitation, a form of Modern Slavery. For more information and advice please look at the Modern Slavery topic.
Local Support Services
Plymouth and Exeter Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC)
The Plymouth and Exeter SARCs (Sexual Assault Referral Centres) offer 24 hour access to counselling and services to support anyone of any age who has experienced rape or sexual assault. This could have been recently or in the past. Services offered include; forensic medical facilities and examination, emotional and practical support and sexual health and contraception information and services. Support staff and medical services are available at any time of the day or night. This can be with or without the need for police involvement.
Telephone: 0300 303 4626
Online Referral Form: Get help - Devon & Cornwall SARC - NHS (sarchelp.co.uk)
If you are a Police Officer referring a victim into the ISVA Service, you must use the below secure online referral form. Please do not use First Light's own website or advise victims to report directly.
Secure online referral - Devon & Cornwall SARC - NHS (sarchelp.co.uk)
You can find your local SARC centre here: Find Rape and sexual assault referral centres services - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Referral Method: Telephone for self-referral or via professional refer by the online form
Devon Sexual Health Service
Devon Sexual Health, contraception, sexual health & HIV service. Providing free, non-judgemental sexual health services to both female and male sex workers. They appreciate that you may wish to be anonymous and not identifiable in the waiting room in your local area, therefore they do not offer specific clinics or sessions for sex workers.
Telephone: 0300 303 3989
Website: www.devonsexualhealth.nhs.uk
Address: Find a Service Near Me – Devon Sexual Health
Referral Method: Self-referral
First Light
First Light is a charity providing Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence support for all, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. You don't need to have reported to the police to access their services. Their website also provides useful information, advice and support, if you have experienced rape or sexual assault both recently and in the past.
Telephone: 03458 12 12 12 - Sexual Violence Recovery Service Helpline
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Email: info@firstlight.org.uk
Website: First Light – First Light
Referral Method: Self-referral
The Eddystone Trust
The Eddystone Trust is an independent sexual health charity based in the South West, UK. They offer a range of services that includes; non judgemental advice, free testing, free condoms, support for people living with HIV and training for anyone who wants to know more about sexual health.
Telephone: 0800 328 3508
Email: info@eddystone.org.uk
Website: The Eddystone Trust | HIV & Sexual Health Service
Referral Method: Self-referral
Devon Rape Crisis
A specialist support service for people in Devon and Torbay, who have experienced any form of sexual violence, at any point in their lives.
Telephone: 01392 204174
Email: support@devonrapecrisis.org.uk.
Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6pm to 9pm.
Website: https://devonrapecrisis.org.uk/
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
MSI Choices-Paignton Community Treatment Centre
MSI Reproductive Choices UK (MSI UK) is a registered charity who have been providing global reproductive health options. They provide NHS funded and self-funded (private) abortions, contraception, vasectomy services and post abortion care.
Telephone: 0345 300 8090
Opening hours: Please call to book your appointment before you arrive
Website: MSI Choices Paignton Abortion Clinic | MSI Reproductive Choices UK
Address: Mayfield Medical Centre, 37 Totnes Road, Paignton, Devon, TQ4 5LA. On arrival, please report to main reception and state that you have an appointment in the yellow room
Referral Method: Self-referral
Ladies Lounge
This service supports vulnerable women in the Torbay area, who have been affected by the trauma of domestic abuse and are in need of emotional support, advice and information. To register your interest, please contact this service first to join one of their groups.
Telephone: 078951 55965
Opening Hours: Currently meet twice a week Monday 10:30am until 1pm and Wednesday 2pm until 4pm
Email: ladies.lounge58@gmail.com
Website: Ladies Lounge – Supporting vulnerable women in Torbay (ladies-lounge.co.uk)
Address: The Youth Basement, Upton Vale Baptist Church, TQ1 3HY
Referral Method: Self-referral
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. A 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.
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? The Red Cross can help you connect with your local community and meet new friends. They also have a free confidential support line you can contact for advice on loneliness support- 0808 196 3651
- Volunteering is a good way of meeting people. Helping others can also really help improve mental health.
- Join an online community.
It doesn’t really matter who you talk to first. Some ideas would include: a friend, family member, anonymous listening service like 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.
See useful contacts on the Mind website for some suggestions on finding a community group, an organisation to help find a volunteering opportunities or to find other groups.
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:
Pick up shopping, drop off a letter to post, collect a prescription, give a them a friendly call, or even add them to a local community What's app group.
Website: Help your neighbours - #viralkindness contact card
Covid Aid
Covid Aid works with a diverse range of organisations that provide advice and assistance to those affected by Covid-19. You can search for available support on their website or contact them directly if you need more help.
Loneliness in Older People
The Silver Line
A free confidential helpline providing information, friendship and advice to older people. The Silver Line can also put people in contact with community activities in your local area.
Telephone: 0800 470 8090 - Open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Website: https://www.thesilverline.org.uk/
Age UK
The Age UK Advice Line is a free, confidential, national phone service for older people, their families, friends, carers and professionals, which is open 365 days a year (8am-7pm). You can contact them, if you're feeling lonely or need some practical help and support. This organisation also offers 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, where a volunteer befriender will phone an older person.
Telephone: 0800 678 1602 (8am-7pm, 365 days a year)
Website: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/services/befriending-services/
NHS Choices
NHS Choices has a range of advice on Loneliness including volunteering, continuing education and how to engage with social media and computers.
Website: Loneliness in older people - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Andy's Man Club
Andy's man Club are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. Their goal is to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation.
Meeting every Monday from 7pm (excluding Bank Holidays)
No referral or sign up required. Find your nearest group | Andy's Man Club (andysmanclub.co.uk)
Their clubs are open to any man aged 18 or over.
Website: http://andysmanclub.co.uk
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 loneliest capital of Europe.
Samaritans
Providing mental wellbeing support nationally, including crisis support and confidential suicide prevention advice. Any time, from any phone, for FREE.
Telephone: 116 123, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Website: Contact Us | Samaritans
Get Connected
A free confidential helpline for young people under 25, where people can seek help with emotional and mental health issues often linked to loneliness. The service is available 365 days a year and young people can get in touch by phone, webchat, email, text message or use the online help directory, WebHelp 24/7.
Telephone: 0808 808 4994
Website: https://rethinkyourmind.co.uk/get-connected/
The Mix
The Mix provides a free, confidential helpline that gives young people in difficult situations the support and information they need to decide what they want to happen next. It could be anything from mental health, to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs. The mix can help with the feeling of loneliness, it is pretty commonplace and there are tonnes of young people feeling this way, even with social media.
The Mix is for young people who know they need help but don't know where to find it. You can contact them on social, by phone or by webchat.
Telephone: 0808 808 4994 (4pm-11pm Mon-Sat)
Website: https://www.themix.org.uk/
Local Support Services
Age UK Devon
Age UK's current aim is to tackle loneliness through numerous Age UK Devon | Activities and events to help people feel more included in the community. They provide several services, activities and events, please visit their website.
Phone Friend Service can match an individual with a friendly volunteer. Calls enable clients the comfort of a regular check in, companionship and the opportunity to access additional services as and when required.
Telephone: 0333 2412340
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4pm and 9am - 3pm on Friday
Email: infoandadvice@ageukdevon.org.uk
Website: Welcome to Age UK Devon
Referral Method: Self-referral
Local Directories
Pinpoint Devon is a directory with thousands of services and community groups across Devon, including volunteering, be-friending and other services to help you feel less isolated.
Website: Pinpoint thousands of services and community groups across Devon (pinpointdevon.co.uk)
Devon Connect is an online community hub which connect people to their communities by social networking, you can find information and access local activities in your area.
Self-care and National Support Services
If you need to report an incident of stalking contact 101. Report it as early as possible to the police and tell others what is happening. If you are in danger dial 999.
National Stalking Helpline- Suzy Lamplugh Trust
The National Stalking Helpline gives practical information, support, and advice on risk, safety planning and legislation to victims of stalking, their friends, family, and professionals working with victims.
If you contact the helpline via their online form, a Helpline Advisor will respond to you by email. They endeavour to respond to all online contact as soon as possible. If you need advice quickly, call the helpline.
Telephone: 0808 802 0300
Online Form: National Stalking Helpline Enquiry Form | Suzy Lamplugh Trust
Website: https://www.suzylamplugh.org/stalking-help-and-advice
Paladin
Paladin provides a high level of advocacy to anyone at risk of serious harm or homicide from a stalker. They give initial advice and offer to complete a detailed assessment to anyone who calls their service and is affected by stalking.
Telephone: 020 3866 4107
Website: https://www.paladinservice.co.uk/
Protection Against Stalking- PAS
Protection Against Stalking is a national charity working within communities to raise public awareness about stalking and support victims of stalking through providing specialist support services. If you believe you are being stalked, but not in immediate danger, contact them.
Email: support@protectionagainststalking.org
Website: https://www.protectionagainststalking.org/
Citizen's Advice
Citizen’s advice can provide advice on your legal rights if you think you could be experiencing sexual harassment at work.
Telephone: 0800 144 8848
Website: citizensadvice.org.uk
Revenge Porn Helpline
A UK service supporting adults (aged 18+) who are experiencing intimate image abuse, also known as, revenge porn. The helpline was established in 2015 alongside the legislation which made it an offence to share intimate images or videos of someone, either on or offline, without their consent with the intention of causing distress. The helpline can assist you with: Non-judgemental and confidential advice, reporting and removal of content, social media advice, reporting to the police and legal advice.
Telephone: 0345 6000 459 – Monday to Friday 10am-4pm
Email: help@revengepornhelpline.org.uk
Website: https://revengepornhelpline.org.uk/
Rights of Women- helping women through their rights in law
They give free legal advice and information to women in England and Wales on a wide range of issues including domestic violence, child contact, sexual violence and the criminal justice process, immigration and asylum, sexual harassment at work as well as other legal issues arising from relationship breakdown.
Telephone: 020 7490 0152 – Monday 3pm-5pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 6pm-8pm
Website: Sexual harassment at work - Rights of WomenRights of Women
Victim Support
If you’re experiencing persistent and unwanted attention, and the behaviour is making you feel fearful, harassed, or anxious, then you are a victim of stalking. It’s not something that you should have to live with, and they are here to help you. Victim support are an independent charity, and you can contact them regardless of whether you’ve contacted the police, and no matter how long ago the crime took place.
Telephone: National 0808 1689 111- 24 Hours
Devon and Cornwall: 0300 3030 554 Mon-Fri 12pm-6pm
Website: https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/
Respect
Respect phoneline is a confidential and anonymous helpline offering advice, information, and support for anyone concerned about their violence and/or abuse towards a partner or ex-partner of either sex.
Telephone: 0808 802 4040
Website: respectphoneline.org.uk
Men's Advice Line
A confidential helpline, run by Respect, for men experiencing domestic violence from a partner or ex-partner (or from other family members). Their focus is to increase the safety of men experiencing domestic abuse (and the safety of their children).
Telephone: 0808 801 0327
Website: http://www.mensadviceline.org.uk/
The Cyber Helpline
To ensure everyone in the UK has immediate access to expert, cybersecurity help when they need it. The Cyber Helpline is a movement by the cyber security community to step in and fill the gap in support for victims of cybercrime and online harms. They provide a free, confidential helpline for individuals and sole traders. They help victims understand, contain, recover and learn from cyber-attacks by linking them with cyber security technology & experts who provide relevant advice and guidance.
Online Form: CONTACT — The Cyber Helpline
Online Chat: Get Help — The Cyber Helpline
Website: The Cyber Helpline
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, you can 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
StreetSafe
StreetSafe is a service for anyone to anonymously report about public places where people have felt or feel unsafe, because of environmental issues, eg street lighting, abandoned buildings or vandalism and/or because of some behaviours, eg being followed or verbally abused.
Please note: 'StreetSafe' is not for reporting crime or incidents.
Website: StreetSafe | Police.uk (www.police.uk)
Local Support Services
If you are being harassed in a pub, club or bar, you can approach the staff and ‘Ask for Angela’. Staff will help you leave the situation safely and securely.
Harassment and stalking are often used as interchangeable terms. However, they relate to similar but different offences that can cause victims, their families and loved ones physical, psychological and emotional harm.
Offenders can stalk or harass their victims in a number of different ways, including:
- a text, answer phone message, letter or email
- a comment or threat in person or online (e.g. social media or online chat rooms)
- standing outside someone’s house or driving past it
- an act of violence
- damage to someone else’s property
- maliciously and falsely reporting someone to the police without any wrongdoing
Torbay Domestic Abuse Service (TDAS) *Torbay Only*
Providing confidential, non-judgemental support, advice and protection, for all victims of domestic abuse. TDAS helps people to make informed choices about their safety, health, housing and other identified needs. They provide support whether people wish to leave relationships, stay or have left. They can provide one-to-one and group support sessions, and safe refuge houses. You have the right to feel safe.
Telephone: 0800 916 1474, Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
Email: TDAS.service@sanctuary.co.uk
Website: www.sanctuary-supported-living.co.uk/tdas
Address: Woodview House, Torbay Business Park, Woodview Road, Paignton, TQ4 7HP
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
FearLess
Formerly Splitz, FearLess supports people dealing with domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking for over 25 years. They offer 1-to-1 victim support for adults, children and young people with experience of domestic abuse and 1-to-1 support for perpetrators.
Telephone: 0345 155 1074
Email: For clients or those who do not use secure emails: admin.devon@fear-less.org.uk
For professionals using a secure email address: referrals.devon@fear-less.org.uk.cjsm.net
Website: Fear-less - Devon
Address: 1st Floor, Buckland House, Pavilion 3, Park 5 Business Centre, Harrier Way, Exeter, EX2 7HU
Referral Method: Self referral or via professional
SAFE Foundation
A trauma informed service that supports people experiencing domestic abuse. They deliver a range of therapeutic programmes and support adults and children experiencing difficulties in life. Their community-based therapeutic programmes are delivered through a range of interventions from individual and group counselling to organisational guidance, training and workshops.
Telephone: 03030 300 112
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9am-5pm (all appointments must be pre-booked with counsellors in advance)
Email: intake@wearesafe.org.uk
Website: SAFE Foundation (wearesafe.org.uk)
Address: 1 Alba Court, Emperor Way, Exeter, EX1 3QS
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
Ladies Lounge
This service supports vulnerable women in the Torbay area, who have been affected by the trauma of domestic abuse and are in need of emotional support, advice and information. To register your interest, please contact this service first to join one of their groups.
Telephone: 078951 55965
Opening Hours: Currently meet twice a week Monday 10:30am until 1pm and Wednesday 2pm until 4pm
Email: ladies.lounge58@gmail.com
Website: Ladies Lounge – Supporting vulnerable women in Torbay (ladies-lounge.co.uk)
Address: The Youth Basement, Upton Vale Baptist Church, TQ1 3HY
Referral Method: Self-referral
Self-care and National Support Services
If there is no immediate risk to the individual you may encourage them to contact:
Samaritans - (All age groups)
Providing mental wellbeing support nationally, including crisis support and confidential suicide prevention advice. Any time, from any phone, for FREE.
Telephone: 116 123, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Website: Contact Us | Samaritans
Papyrus - Suicide Prevention Charity (Young People)
PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide is the UK charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people. If you or a young person you know is not coping, you can contact their HOPELINE247 for confidential Suicide Prevention advice. Text and email options are also available, please visit their website for more information.
Telephone: 0800 068 41 41 - available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
Website: www.papyrus-uk.org
Childline
A confidential service where you can talk about anything, it is aimed at anyone under the age of 19 years and supports any issue. Trained counsellors will talk through anything, whether it is big or small, providing advice and discussions. Online 1-2-1 chats with counsellors and email options are also available. See their website for more details.
Childline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Telephone: 0800 1111
Website: Childline | Childline
SANEline
SANEline is an out-of-hours telephone helpline offering practical information, crisis care and emotional support to anybody affected by mental health problems. They also provide a free text-based support service called Textcare. You need to be 16+ to use this service.
Telephone: 0300 304 7000 - 4pm-10pm each evening, every day of the year.
Website: www.sane.org.uk
CALM
The helpline is for people in the UK who are down or have hit a wall for any reason, who need to talk or find information and support.
Telephone: 0800 585 858 Daily 17:00-00:00, 365 days a year
Website: www.thecalmzone.net
Rethink
Rethink is the largest severe mental illness charity in the UK and their information and advice service offers practical help on a wide range of mental health issues.
Telephone: 0808 801 0525 - 9:30am – 4pm from Monday to Friday.
Website: https://www.rethink.org/
SHOUT
A free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. A text will prompt a conversation with trained volunteers. For individuals who are anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or overwhelmed and who need immediate support.
Text: 85258 - Available 24 hours a day
Website: https://giveusashout.org
MIND
'The charity for better mental health' has an extensive range of self help resources available.
Telephone: 0300 123 3393 9am-6pm Mon-Fri for non-urgent information about mental health services and support that may be available.
Website: https://www.mind.org.uk
Andy's Man Club
Andy's man Club are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. Their goal is to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation.
Meeting every Monday from 7pm (excluding Bank Holidays)
No referral or sign up required. Find your nearest group | Andy's Man Club (andysmanclub.co.uk)
Their clubs are open to any man aged 18 or over.
Website: http://andysmanclub.co.uk
Mindwell
Mindwell is a mental health website providing useful information about how to take care of your mental wellbeing and providing a range of self-help techniques. Although some resources are Leeds focussed, there is also lots of useful self-help resources and some links to national services.
Website: https://www.mindwell-leeds.org.uk/
Stay Alive
The Stay Alive app is a suicide prevention resource, it is packed full of useful information and tools to help people to stay safe in crisis. There is help from emergency and crisis support services and an option to create a Safety Plan on how to stay safe when in crisis.
Website: StayAlive - Essential suicide prevention for everyday life
Local Support Services
If you feel that you’re in immediate danger of seriously harming yourself, call 999 and ask for help. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts and you can’t keep yourself safe you can attend your local A&E and ask to see the on call mental health team.
First Response Service (24/7) NHS mental health crisis services
Providing urgent help for people of all ages in mental health crisis. Run by Devon partnership NHS Trust.
Telephone: 0808 196 8708 (if you need help 24/7)
Website: First Response Service | Devon Partnership Trust
Referral Method: Self-referral
Pete's Dragons
Offering support and comfort for anyone impacted by suicide in Devon. They offer listening services, as well as practical advice and assistance. A self-referral form is available on their website.
Telephone: 01395 277 780 open Monday to Friday- 9am - 5pm
Email: support@petesdragons.org.uk
Website: Home - Pete's Dragons (petesdragons.org.uk)
Referral Method: Self-referral or via professional
The Moorings - Torquay
The Moorings @ Devon offer mental health support to anyone aged 18+ in the Devon area, from three locations in Barnstaple, Exeter, and Torquay. They provide out of hours helpline support and there is no need for an appointment.
Telephone: 07483 991 848
Opening Hours: 10am-6pm (virtual only) and 6pm-midnight, Monday-Friday (including bank holidays)
Email: devontorquay.mhm@nhs.net
Website: https://www.mhm.org.uk/the-moorings-devon
Address: Torbay Business Centre, Lymington Road, Torquay, TQ1 4BD
Referral method: Self-referral