Young Minds
Text the Young Minds Crisis Messenger, for free 24/7 support across the UK if you are experiencing a mental health crisis.
If you need urgent help text YM to 85258.
Young Minds also offer a helpline for parents who are worried about their young person. Call the Parents Helpline: 0808 802 5544 (Monday to Friday 9.30am – 4pm, free for mobiles and landlines).
Samaritans
When life is tough, Samaritans are here to listen at any time of the day or night. You can talk to them about anything that's troubling you, no matter how difficult.
Call free on 116 123.
Shout
Shout offers confidential 24/7 crisis text support for times when you need immediate assistance.
Text "SHOUT" to 85258.
Education Support Partnership
If you are a member of staff at the college or you work in education you can access the Education Support Partnership who offer a free 24-hour helpline.
Call 08000 562 561.
Papyrus HopeLine UK
If you are under 35 and feel that life is not worth living any more, call Papyrus's HopeLine any time 24/7.
Call HopeLine UK on 0300 102 2470
Text Hope to 88247.
CALM
CALM is the Campaign Against Living Miserably, for people in the UK who are down or have hit a wall for any reason.
Call 0800 58 58 58 (daily, 5pm to midnight).
Free, anonymous webchat with trained staff.
Switchboard
Switchboard is a helpline for the LGBT+ community. The helpline is there to help you with whatever you want to talk about. Nothing is off limits. They want to support you so when you finish your call or chat you feel like you have options.
Call 0300 330 0630 Open 10.00 to 22.00 every day.
Mind - Side by Side
Side by Side is Mind’s online community where people connect through shared experiences of mental health. You can listen, share, and be heard 24/7 in a safe and trusted space, moderated by Mind. It’s a powerful thing to connect with someone who understands what you’re going through.
Urgent, non-emergency medical advice
If you need help urgently but are not at risk of death or serious illness, use the NHS 111 non-emergency advice online.
Only call 111 if you cannot get help online.
People with hearing problems can use the NHS 111 | SignVideo
Safer Places
Safer Places are based in Essex and can provide practical support and information.
Call 03301 025 811.
Changing Pathways
Changing Pathways is based in South and South West Essex providing free, confidential support and advocacy to individuals in the areas of Basildon, Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford, Thurrock, Harlow and Epping Forest.
Helpline: 01268 729707
24hr helpline: 0330 333 7444
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Women can call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 for free at any time, day or night.
Staff can offer confidential, non-judgemental support and information.
Men’s Life Advice Line
Men’s Life Advice Line offer non-judgemental information and support.
Call 0808 8010 327.
(Monday and Wednesday, 9am to 8pm, and Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9am to 5pm).
Galop
If you identify as LGBT+ Galop can offer emotional and practical support.
Call 0800 999 5428.
Monday to Friday - 10:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday to Thursday - 10:00am - 8:00pm