Mental Health & Disability Resource by UCASU

Mental Health & Disability Resource 1

CONTENTS

3. INTRODUCTION 5. DISABILITY RESOURCES 7. NATIONWIDE 9. CANTERBURY 11. EPSOM 13. FARNHAM 15. ROCHESTER 17. NEURODIVERGENCE RESOURCES 21. NATIONWIDE 27. CANTERBURY 29. EPSOM 33. FARNHAM 37. ROCHESTER 39. CARERS RESOURCES 41. NATIONWIDE 43. CANTERBURY

45. EPSOM 46. FARNHAM 47. ROCHESTER 49. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

53. NATIONWIDE 55. CANTERBURY 59. EPSOM 63. FARNHAM 67. ROCHESTER 75. UCA 79. UCASU

As someone who grew up in a family where mental health and diabilities were rarely talked about, I wish I had had better information surrounding mental health and disabilities. Now, I am learning new information and unlearning harmful things on this topic taught to me when I was young. It brings me peace to know that we have found ourselves in a community of people who support each other by sharing resources. With this document, you will be able to not only find places and opportunities that offer aid, but direct your friends and peers as well, should they need help. This document is broken down in to region for each topic of conversation, so finding the specific resource you need is simple.

This resource may not provide you with everything you need, however, on the back of months of research, our team has been able to produce a healthy amount of ways to get started. In solidarity, Gaebriel Min President Surrey 21/22

DISABILITY RESOURCES

What is a Disability? What is a Physical Disability?

A disability is defined as a condition that can physically or mentally impact an individual’s ability to carry out usual daily activities.

A physical disability is one that limits a person’s mobility, dexterity, speech or stamina. Brain and spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy are such examples. Chronic illnesses can come under the umbrella of physical disabilities if the individual has a long lasting (12 months+) physical impairment that substantially impacts them on carrying out day-to-day activities. Examples include endometriosis, rheumatoid arthritis and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).

Disability Rights UK

Disability Rights UK works with Disabled People’s Organisations and Government across the UK to influence regional and national change for better rights, benefits, quality of life and economic opportunities for Disabled people. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can read about what adjustments your employer or academic institution should be making for you here: https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/ adjustments-disabled-students. ● You can call the Disabled Students’ Hotline on 0330 995 0414 between 11am and 1pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They will provide advice and support to disabled people who are studying or wish to study at any level on full-time or part-time education or training courses.

N IO T A N W ID E

How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can read the online guide here:

https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/ applying-university/individual-needs/disabledstudents.

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(Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)

UCAS

UCAS has information online to guide disabled students through the process of applying to college and university.

NHS East Kent Chronic Pain Clinic

The Chronic Pain Therapy Team works closely with Doctors and Psychologists with a special interest in supporting Children and Young People with Chronic/Persistent Pain. How to access this service and what to expect: ● Your consultant or clinical psychologist can refer you to this service. ● The team will work with you and your family to help you find the right type of management and support and help you get back to enjoying the things you like to do. ● You can find more information and resources on their website here: https://www.ekhuft.nhs.uk/patientsand-visitors/services/therapies/therapyservices-children-young-people/children-andyoung-people-physiotherapy-outpatients/ specialised-clinics/chronic-pain-clinic/.

A C E T N R B U Y R

How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can email forums@engagingkent.co.uk for information about joining the meetings. ● The Forum meets once or twice a year in full, but is supported by a breakout group made up of volunteer members who are able to devote a little more time to specific work and consultations. The break out group meets several times a year at different venues around Kent to drive forward the objectives of the Forum. ● You can find more information and resources on their website here:

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https://www.kentmedwayvoice.com/kent/ kent-physical-disability-forum

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Kent Physical Disability Service

The Forum provides an opportunity for networking, direct access to decision-makers and contacts members regularly to update them on its work.

Surrey County Council

Surrey County Council has a directory of resources for disabled people online, covering a wide range of disability types. How to access this service: ● You can find more information and resources on their website here: https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/social-care-andhealth/adults/disabilities.

E P S O M

How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can call 01784 458200 or fill in the email form here: https://www.sdpp.org.uk/contact/index.php to find out more about accessing the services SDPP offers. ● They offer a number of services, including advocacy, advice and information about disabilities. ● You can find more information and resources on their website here:

https://www.sdpp.org.uk/.

Surrey Disabled People’s Partnership

SDPP is an independent organisation that provides a range of free, confidential and independent services, run by a team of dedicated and enthusiastic professionals, including volunteers.

Surrey County Council

A F R N H A M

https://www.sdpp.org.uk/.

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Surrey Disabled People’s Partnership

SDPP is an independent organisation that provides a range of free, confidential and independent services, run by a team of dedicated and enthusiastic professionals, including volunteers.

Kent Physical Disability Service

The Forum provides an opportunity for networking, direct access to decision-makers and contacts members regularly to update them on its work. How to access this service: ● You can email forums@engagingkent.co.uk for information about joining the meetings. ● The Forum meets once or twice a year in full, but is supported by a breakout group made up of volunteer members who are able to devote a little more time to specific work and consultations. The break out group meets several times a year at different venues around Kent to drive forward the objectives of the Forum. ● You can find more information and resources on their website here: https://www.kentmedwayvoice.com/kent/ kent-physical-disability-forum

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NEURODIVERGENCE RESOURCES

What does it mean to be Neurodivergent?

This refers to the presence of less-typical cognitive variations such as Autism or ADHD. All individuals vary in terms of their neurocognitive ability, with some finding the differences between strengths and weaknesses more distinctive. In turn, this brings talent but also can be disabling, neurodivergent people can find some things extremely easy but other things very hard which can lead to erratic performances at school or work.

What are the types of neurodiverse conditions?

Often referred to as neurominorities, these conditions are often considered as weaknesses when in fact they have many strengths. See to the right how some neurominorities can present themselves.

How it can present ADHD

(Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

May seem disengaged or very talkative. May find it challenging to focus, sit still or concentrate.

Strengths

Challenges

Problem-solving, strong 3D visual skills, alertness and ability to hyper-focus, passion and enthusiasm

Difficulty concentrating, taking on too much, lacking attention to detail, can appear rude to others

Information processing and memory, detailconscious, honesty, creating and finding patterns

Difficulty with verbal communication, difficulty following nonspecific instructions, overstimulation and stress, often too focused on detail

Autism

May struggle to understand social cues and follow nonspecific instructions. Can become hyper-fixated and stressed triggers, including small changes to plans or routines.

Dyslexia

May find reading, writing, sounds and ordering details challenging.

Great long-term memory, problem-solving, strong 3D visual skills

Difficulty with reading, writing, sounds and ordering details.

May find it challenging to follow sequences, manage time, learn new processes and stay organised. These can all trigger stress responses.

Strong creativity and empathy, verbal communication skills, problem-solving, tenacity

Difficulty following sequences, stress, time management & organisation, learning new processes

Characterised by involuntary movements and noises (tics) which could include blinking and throat clearing

Creativity, ability to hyper-focus, strong verbal communication skills, empathy and resilience

Dyspraxia or DCD

(Developmental Coordination Disorder)

Tourette’s Syndrome

The need to “let out” repressed tics, stress, hyper-arousal

National Autistic Society

They provide support, guidance and advice, as well as campaign for improved rights, services and opportunities to help create a society that works for autistic people. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at: https://www.autism.org.uk/ and access their comprehensive advice and guidance hub online. ● They also offer diagnostic services upon referrals from the NHS or your local authority.

N IO T A N W ID E

How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can read about what adjustments your employer or academic institution should be making for you here: https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/ adjustments-disabled-students.

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● You can call the Disabled Students’ Hotline on 0330 995 0414 between 11am and 1pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They will provide advice and support to disabled people who are studying or wish to study at any level on full-time or part-time education or training courses.

Disability Rights UK

UCAS

(Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)

UCAS has information online to guide disabled students through the process of applying to college and university. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can read the online guide here: https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/ applying-university/individual-needs/disabledstudents.

The ADHD Foundation

The ADHD Foundation Neurodiversity Charity is an integrated health and education service offering a unique service for the 1 in 5 people who live with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia and Tourette’s syndrome. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at https://adhdfoundation.org.uk/ and access their advice and guidance resources online. ● They also offer private screening and diagnostic services in London.

N IO T A N W ID E

How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/ and access their advice and guidance resources online. ● They offer a number of services including a dyslexia helpline and diagnostic assessments.

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https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/services/

British Dyslexia Association

The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) is the voice of dyslexic people. They aim to influence the government and other institutions to promote a dyslexia friendly society that enables dyslexic people of all ages to reach their full potential.

Helen Arkell Dyslexia Association

They offer dyslexia support and advice to anyone who may need it, whether they think they have dyslexia or care for someone who may have dyslexia. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at: https://www.helenarkell.org.uk/ and access their advice and guidance resources online. ● You can also visit the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Charity Centre at Arkell Lane, Frensham, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 3BL to access diagnostic assessments.

Dyspraxia Foundation

They offer information and support for dyspraxia, including through local groups around the country. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can find out more about what local groups are running here: https://dyspraxiafoundation.org.uk/groups/.

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● You can also learn more about dyspraxia through the resources on their website.

W ID E

How to access this service and what to expect: ● Tourettes Action signposts to a number of service providers across the country here: https://www.tourettes-action.org.uk/8-findsupport.html.

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● You can also learn more about Tourettes Syndrome through the resources on their website.

Tourettes Action

Tourettes Action works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and is the leading support and research charity for people with Tourette Syndrome and their families.

East Kent Dyslexia Support

Dyslexia East Kent Support is a local group set up to provide information and support to people with dyslexia of all ages. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can attend a free drop-in session on the first Saturday of every month at the Canterbury Dyslexia Centre in Blean, CT2 9HP. ● The team of specialist advisors guide people to find the information they need and support them to access further resources. ● You can become a member of the East Kent Dyslexia Support Centre for £20 a year, giving you access to their drop-in library, loans of resources and games, access to the AGM and reduced fees for the talks they offer. ● You can find more information and resources on their website here: https://dyslexia-east-kent.org.uk/.

A C E T N R B U Y R

How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can join the Facebook group at:

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https://www.facebook.com/ groups/990431507754294/.

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SEE Autistic Women: London and South East England Support & Social Group

Surrey County Council

SEE Autistic Women: London and South East England Support & Social Group E P S O M

This group is run by and for autistic women (or for those who identify as women/non-binary). They organise social events in London and South East England, which includes the counties of Kent, Surrey, both East and West Sussex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, the Isle of Wight, Hampshire and Oxfordshire. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can join the Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/990431507754294/.

How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can call 01784 458200 or fill in the email form to find out more about accessing the services SDPP offers. https://www.sdpp.org.uk/contact/index.php ● They offer a number of services, including advocacy, advice and information about disabilities. ● You can find more information and resources on their website here:

https://www.sdpp.org.uk/.

Surrey Disabled People’s Partnership

SDPP is an independent organisation that provides a range of free, confidential and independent services, run by a team of dedicated and enthusiastic professionals, including volunteers.

ASD and ADHD Service: Surrey

The ASD and ADHD Service for Surrey provides diagnosis and support for adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) across Surrey. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can be referred to this service by your GP, community mental health team, or adult social care services. ● You can find more information and resources on their website here: https://www.sabp.nhs.uk/our-services/ learning-disabilities/asd-adhd/asd-adhd-surrey.

E P S O M

How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can email SurreyPBSNetwork@outlook. com to join the Surrey PBS network. ● They offer a calendar of events you can take part in, with more information here:

http://surreypbsnetwork.co.uk/events.html.

Surrey Positive Behaviour Support Network

Surrey PBS network aims to bring together individuals, family carers, support providers, professionals and the wider community to discuss, share practice and raise awareness of Positive Behaviour Support in Surrey. Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centred approach to supporting people with a learning disability.

Surrey County Council

SEE Autistic Women: London and South East England Support & Social Group A F R N H A M

https://www.sdpp.org.uk/.

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Surrey Disabled People’s Partnership

SDPP is an independent organisation that provides a range of free, confidential and independent services, run by a team of dedicated and enthusiastic professionals, including volunteers.

ASD and ADHD Service: Surrey

A F R N H A M

http://surreypbsnetwork.co.uk/events.html.

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Surrey Positive Behaviour Support Network

Kent Physical Disability Forum

R O C H E E T S R

● You can join the Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/990431507754294/. They offer signposting to dyslexia assessments, support and advice to anyone who may need it. They also offer events throughout the year. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at: http://medwaydys.org/index.html and access their list of services online.

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● You can also contact via email at dyslexia.house@gmail.com or phone on 07939 232 537 between 10am and 3pm, Monday to Friday.

Dyslexia House Association

How to access this service and what to expect:

SEE Autistic Women: London and South East England Support & Social Group

CARERS RESOURCES

What is a Carer?

A Carer is defined by the NHS England website, as “...anyone, including children and adults who looks after a family member, partner or friend who needs help because of their illness, frailty, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction and cannot cope without their support. The care they give is unpaid.” https://www.england.nhs.uk/commissioning/ comm-carers/carers/ They further go on to explain that there are many carers who don’t actually see themselves as such and that it sometimes will take an average of two years for them to acknowledge their role as a carer. If you fall under the above-mentioned definitions, you are a carer - and there is support available for you!

Carers UK

Carers UK offer signposting to different organisations that provide support for carers, as well as providing advice and support themselves. Carers UK also has a helpline and an online forum to help you connect with people who understand what you’re going through. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at: https://www.carersuk.org/ and access their list of services online. ● You can also contact via email at advice@carersuk.org or phone on 0808 808 7777 between 9am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

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How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-careand-support-guide/ and access their list of services online.

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(National Health Service)

NHS

The NHS can assist you in finding things like Care Services, Equipment and Benefits.

Kent Young Carers

Kent Young Carers is the countywide service for Young Carers aged 5-18 across Kent. Following assessment, KYC offers a range of short-term interventions including signposting, one-to-one support, in school support and workshops. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at: https://www.imago.community/Children-andYoung-People/Kent-Young-Carers and access their list of services online. ● You can also contact via email at youngcarers@imago.community or phone on 0300 111 1110.

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How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at: https://carersek.org.uk/ and access their list of services online.

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● You can also contact via email at support@carersek.org.uk or phone on 0300 302 0061.

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Carers’ Support East Kent

Carers’ Support East Kent provides carers over 18 with the information and support they need. Through their website, you can find information about services available to carers, benefits, and rights. You can also find things like support groups, training workshops - and the Kent Carers Emergency Card, which can give you peace of mind when you are away from the person you look after.

Action for Carers Surrey

Action for Carers provides help for carers of all ages across Surrey. They provide you with everything from information, emotional support, and advice. Action for Carers can help you find financial support and assist you in claiming Carers’ Benefits. They offer practical and oneto-one support - and they also have specialist support available for both young carers (under 18), and young adult carers (18-24). They will often have things like events and support groups available. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at: https://www.actionforcarers.org.uk/how-wehelp/ and access their list of services online. ● You can also contact via email at CarerSupport@actionforcarers.org.uk or phone on 0303 040 1234.

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How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at: https://www.actionforcarers.org.uk/how-wehelp/ and access their list of services online.

● You can also contact via email at CarerSupport@actionforcarers.org.uk or phone on 0303 040 1234.

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Action for Carers Surrey

Carers First Medway

Carers First offers support for carers of all ages through things like one-to-one advice, support groups and workshops. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit their website at: https://www.carersfirst.org.uk/medway/howwe-help/ and access their list of services online. ● You can also contact via email at hello@carersfirst.org.uk or phone on 0300 303 1555.

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MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

What is Mental Health?

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. Over the course of your life, if you experience mental health problems, your thinking, mood, and behavior could be affected. Many factors contribute to mental health problems, including: ● Biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry ● Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse ● Family history of mental health problems

What are the common types of Mental Health conditions?

To the right is a summary of some of the more well-known mental health conditions with some common symptoms, as well as brief information about diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.

How it can present Anxiety

Difficulty concentrating, irritability, nausea, a “sense of dread”, palpitations

Depression

Continuous low mood, irritability, lack of motivation, hopelessness, thoughts of suicide or harming yourself

Eating Disorders

Fear of gaining weight, using extreme weightloss methods, body dysmorphia, binge-eating

Bipolar Disorder

Cycles of depression and mania (elevated mood, risky behaviours, insomnia, psychosis etc)

Schizophrenia

Hallucinations, delusions, confused thoughts, social withdrawal, lack of concentration

Personality Disorders

Dependent on disorder; visit Mind for more information: https://www.mind.org. uk/information-support/ types-of-mental-healthproblems/personalitydisorders/types-ofpersonality-disorder/

Diagnosis Route

Treatment

GP, community mental health team psychiatrist.

Psychological therapies (e.g. CBT), self-help, medication, inpatient treatment.

GP, community mental health team psychiatrist.

Psychological therapies (e.g. CBT), selfhelp, medication, electroconvulsive therapy, inpatient treatment.

GP, community mental health team psychiatrist, eating disorder specialist team.

Psychological therapies (e.g. CBT), self-help, medication, inpatient treatment, care programme approach (CPA).

Community mental health team psychiatrist via GP referral.

Psychological therapies (e.g. CBT), self-help, medication, inpatient treatment, care programme approach (CPA).

Community mental health team psychiatrist via GP referral.

Psychological therapies (e.g. CBT), self-help, medication, inpatient treatment, care programme approach (CPA).

Community mental health team psychiatrist via GP referral.

Psychological therapies (e.g. CBT), self-help, medication, inpatient treatment, care programme approach (CPA), therapeutic communities.

Counselling Service

UCA offers all currently registered students free confidential short-term counselling across the campuses in Surrey and Kent, for a variety of concerns, including anxiety and stress, low mood or depression, relationship issues, family difficulties, sexual and gender identity, low selfesteem, bereavement and social difficulties. Appointments can be in-person, online, or over the phone. How to access this service and what to expect: ● The UCA Counselling Service can be contacted directly via email, or through the Gateway in the Library on each campus. ● You will be offered an initial assessment to discuss your situation and decide whether counselling is appropriate. ● If you are accepted for counselling sessions, you will be offered a counselling contract, detailing how many sessions you will be offered.

Please note, students at Maidstone Studios can access support through Rochester, and Royal School of Needlework (RSN) students can access support through either Epsom or Farnham.

Campus Buddy Scheme

Campus Buddies are student volunteers who support new students who are on the Autistic Spectrum or experience Anxiety with some of the social aspects of settling into university life during term one. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can request a campus buddy through your Learning Support Manager. ● Your campus buddy can provide you with up to five hours of support during freshers, along with an additional one hour of support per week during term one. ● They can assist you with navigating campus, attending events, meeting clubs/societies etc.

Disability Support Service

The University has a dedicated team to support students with disabilities, known as Disability and Specific Learning Differences (Disability & SpLD). They work alongside students and academics to support you with advice, guidance and information; including how to access funding, undertaking a needs assessments and how to declare a disability or request for support. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can visit: https://students.uca.ac.uk/student-services/ disability/ for more information. ● You can also email at

Exams

disability@uca.ac.uk.

If you need assistance with exams, the university can assess your needs and ways of working to apply for arrangements such as additional time, separate rooms, readers, scribes and rest breaks.

Accessibility

Detailed information about the accessibility of the four campuses such as ramped/sloped access, on-site parking, accessible toilets and more, can be found at the following links: https://www.accessable.co.uk/sites/ canterbury-campus https://www.accessable.co.uk/sites/epsomcampus https://www.accessable.co.uk/sites/farnhamcampus https://www.accessable.co.uk/sites/rochestercampus

Online Support

UCA offers free access to several online wellbeing platforms to students, including myWellbeing and Togetherall. How to access this service and what to expect: ● Learn more about the tools provided here: https://students.uca.ac.uk/student-services/ health-wellbeing/wellbeing-tools/. ● You can sign up for Togetherall free using your UCA email address here: https://togetherall.com/en-gb/. ● You can download the UCA myWellbeing app from the iOS pp Store or the Google Play Store.

Advice & Wellbeing Coordinator

UCASU employs a Advice & Wellbeing Coordinator for students to discuss any concerns with, including mental health, study support as well as signposting to university services. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can email the Advice & Wellbeing Coordinator for advice here: advice.su@uca.ac.uk ● You can submit a wellbeing request through the Help Desk here: https://ucasu.zendesk.com/hc/en-gb/requests/ new.

Help Desk

The Help Desk is a UCASU hub of information for students on a variety of topics, including mental health. You can also submit wellbeing requests here, which will be answered by a member of staff. How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can access the Help Desk mental health hub here: https://ucasu.zendesk.com/hc/en-gb/ categories/360001765732-Mental-Health-. ● You can submit a wellbeing request here: https://ucasu.zendesk.com/hc/en-gb/requests/ new.

Disability Rights UK

N IO T A N W ID E

How to access this service and what to expect: ● You can read the online guide here:

https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/ applying-university/individual-needs/disabledstudents.

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(Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)

UCAS

UCAS has information online to guide disabled students through the process of applying to college and university.

Single Point of Access

This is a service if you need urgent or emergency mental health help and support. Single Point of Access can be used if you are not currently receiving care or treatment from the Community Mental Health Team. How to access this service and what to expect: ● Call the Single Point of Access phone line on 0800 783 9111 (over 18s) or 0800 011 3474 (under 18s). The phone line is open 24/7. ● When you phone the first point of call will be to speak to a trained professional who will ensure that you are put through to the right person or service based on your needs. ● You can find more information and resources on their website here: https://www.cshsurrey.co.uk/our-services/ service-adults/single-point-access-spa The service that you will be directed to will depend on your needs: ● Community Mental Health Team for more complex mental health diagnoses (e.g. Bipolar Disorder, some personality disorders, schizophrenia).

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● Counselling service for common mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.

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● Referrals to specialist services with teams for eating disorder units and support.

How to access this service and what to expect: ● Call the MHM phone line on The phone line is open 24/7.

0800 107 0160.

● Visit the MHM website at: https://www.mhm.org.uk/helpline-webchat to access the webchat.

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● You will speak to a highly trained member of staff who can help when you are feeling low, anxious or stressed and feel that talking to another person might help you, as well as if you’re caring for another person and finding it difficult to cope.

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Mental Health Matters

The Mental Health Matters helpline provides emotional support, advice and guidance to residents registered with a GP in Kent. There is also an option to chat online for those who don’t feel comfortable talking in person or those who may not be able to.

Kent Safe Haven

Kent Safe Haven offers an out-of-hours mental health support service to anyone aged 16+ in Canterbury. The service runs from 6pm to 11pm everyday as a walk-in service, with no referral needed. Currently, a mask is required to attend the service. How to access this service and what to expect: ● Visit the Kent Safe Haven at Age UK, The Centre, Castle Row, Canterbury, CT1 2QY. This service is open from 6pm to 11pm, everyday including weekends and bank holidays. ● Call visit:

07876 476 703 or

07483 163 953 or

https://www.mhm.org.uk/kent-safe-havens for more information. ● You can visit just for a chat, or you can access one-to-one emotional support from trained mental health professionals. They also offer help in creating staying well and crisis plans, and support visitors to access other services and organisations that may be useful to them.

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Single Point of Access

● Counselling service for common mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.

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● Referrals to specialist services with teams for eating disorder units and support.

How to access this service and what to expect: ● Call the phone line on 0300 456 83 42. The phone line is open from 5pm to 9am Monday to Friday, and 24/7 on weekends and bank holidays. ● Text the phone line on 07717 989 024. The phone line is open from 5pm to 9am Monday to Friday, and 24/7 on weekends and bank holidays.

● Your call will be answered by a trained call handler who is experienced in working with people with mental ill-health. They will help you access the support you may need. This may involve speaking to a qualified mental health practitioner such as a social worker or occupational therapist.

Mental Health Crisis Line

The Surrey Mental Health Crisis helpline provides emotional support, advice and guidance to adults in Surrey.

Epsom Safe Haven

Epsom Safe Haven offers an out-of-hours mental health support service to anyone aged 16+ in Canterbury. The service runs from 6pm to 11pm everyday as a walk-in service, with no referral needed. Currently, a mask is required to attend the service. How to access this service and what to expect: ● Visit the Epsom Safe Haven at The Larches, 44 Waterloo Road, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 8EX. This service is open from 6pm to 11pm, everyday including weekends and bank holidays. ● You can also access an online version of the safe haven at the same time here: https://england.nhs.attendanywhere.com/ ce/?apikey=94ab870a-c086-43b1-81e0151edf9a4fc2&nid=j6vFhi%3fB8. ● Visit https://www.sabp.nhs.uk/our-services/mentalhealth/safe-havens/SafeHavenEpsom for more information.

● You can visit just for a chat, or you can access one-to-one emotional support from trained mental health professionals. They also offer help in creating staying well and crisis plans, and support visitors to access other services and organisations that may be useful to them.

P S O M

How to access this service and what to expect: ● Call

01483 906 392 or visit

https://dhctalkingtherapies.co.uk/self-referral/ to refer yourself. ● You can also ask your GP to refer you to this service. ● They can provide help with common mental health problems such as anxiety, low mood or depression, phobias, trauma, and bereavement. The service that you will be directed to will depend on your needs. Examples of these services are:

O S P

● Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) for PTSD.

● Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for depression, anxiety, OCD etc.

● Couples counselling.

Surrey Talking Therapies

DHC Healthcare provides a free counselling service available to anyone aged 17+ who is registered with a GP in Surrey, over the phone, web, or in person. They offer a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) and couples counselling. There is more information on their website about what therapies they offer for different mental health concerns.

Single Point of Access

A F

● Counselling service for common mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.

R N H A M

● Referrals to specialist services with teams for eating disorder units and support.

F A

Mental Health Crisis Line

The Surrey Mental Health Crisis helpline provides emotional support, advice and guidance to adults in Surrey.

Surrey Talking Therapies

01483 906 392 or visit

● Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) for PTSD.

R N H A M

● Couples counselling.

F A

R N H

Single Point of Access

● Counselling service for common mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.

O C H E E T S R

● Referrals to specialist services with teams for eating disorder units and support.

How to access this service and what to expect: ● Call the MHM phone line on The phone line is open 24/7.

0800 107 0160.

● Visit the MHM website at: https://www.mhm.org.uk/helpline-webchat to access the webchat.

S T E

Mental Health Matters

Medway Safe Haven

Medway Safe Haven offers an out-of-hours mental health support service to anyone aged 16+ in Canterbury. The service runs from 6pm to 11pm everyday as a walk-in service, with no referral needed. Currently, a mask is required to attend the service. How to access this service and what to expect: ● Visit the Medway Safe Haven at Age UK, Mackenney Centre, Woodlands Road, Gillingham, ME7 2BX. This service is open from 6pm to 11pm, everyday including weekends and bank holidays. ● Call visit

07850 901 151 or

07808 795 036 or

R O C H E E T S R

How to access this service and what to expect: ● Call

0300 029 3000 (9am to 5pm) or visit

https://www.insightiapt.org/locations/ medway/ to refer yourself. ● You can also ask your GP to refer you to this service. ● They can provide help with common mental health problems such as anxiety, low mood or depression, phobias, trauma, and bereavement. The service that you will be directed to will depend on your needs. Examples of these services are:

● Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for depression, anxiety, OCD etc.

● Couples counselling.

S T E

● Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) for PTSD. R

Medway Talking Therapies

Insight Healthcare provides a free counselling service available to anyone aged 18+ who is registered with a GP in Medway, over the phone, web, or in person. They offer a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) and couples counselling. There is more information on their website about what therapies they offer for different mental health concerns.

Rethink Sahayak Asian Mental Health Helpline

The Rethink Sahayak Asianline offers a culturally sensitive listening and information service for the Asian community in Kent. Callers may speak in Asian languages (Gujarati, Punjabi, Hindu, and Urdu) or English. How to access this service and what to expect: ● Call the phone line on 0808 800 2073. The phone line is open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4pm to 7pm and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12pm to 3pm. ● Visit the Rethink Asianline webpage at: https://www.rethink.org/help-in-your-area/ services/advice-and-helplines/rethink-sahayakasian-mental-health-helpline/ to learn more. ● You will speak to a highly trained member of staff who can help when you are struggling with mental health issues, as well as provide support to carers or friends and people affected by domestic abuse.

R O C H E E T S R

How to access this service and what to expect: ● Services are based in-person, online and over the phone. A list of services they provide in Medway can be found here: http://megancic.org.uk/services/. ● Call

01634 402077 or visit:

http://megancic.org.uk/membership/ to become a member of MEGAN.

S T E

● Mental health peer support groups provide a setting for people to share their experiences and help others with the same condition or symptoms.

(Medway Engagement Group And Network CIC)

MEGAN CIC

The Medway Engagement Group And Network CIC (MEGAN) runs a variety of services for those with mental health issues, including peer support groups for depression, anxiety, personality disorders etc. and one to one support for those experiencing social isolation.

North Kent Mind

North Kent Mind is an independent mental health charity operating in Dartford and Gravesham, Swanley and surrounding villages, and the Unitary Authority of Medway. They provide a wide range of services for people who experience mental health issues, whether these are described as anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Personality Disorder, or otherwise. How to access this service and what to expect: ● Services are based in-person, online and over the phone. A list of services they provide in Medway can be found here: https://northkentmind.co.uk/lwkm-recoveryand-social-inclusion-programme/. ● You can register with North Kent Mind on their website here: https://northkentmind.co.uk/north-kent-mindmedway-digital-registration-form/. ● North Kent Mind has a wide range of groups you can choose to join, including courses on anxiety, depression, self-esteem and mindfulness, social activities, and arts and crafts sessions.

R O C H E E T S R

How to access this service and what to expect: ● Referrals, including self-referrals, can be made on the website at: http://chums.uk.com/referral/.

S T E

● This Specialist Bereavement Service is established from a wide range of experienced, trained professionals and volunteers. Support will be tailored to provide evidence-based interventions to children and young people through 1:1, group and drop-in sessions.

CHUMS

CHUMS offer specialist bereavement support to children and young people from 3½ up until their 26th birthday in Kent and Medway.