Support Directory
Browse our directory for more information about the Support and Services available to you across Cumbria, Nationally and Online.
Reach out, get help
Tough times like these can leave us feeling stressed, anxious and out of control.
Don’t do it alone.
Suicide & Mental Health Crisis
What to do in a mental health or suicide emergency
If you, or someone you know needs immediate support:
Call the NHS Universal Crisis Line on 111 and select the mental health option 2
What to do in a suicide emergency
Sometimes thoughts of suicide may become very intense and overwhelming, and a person may struggle to keep themselves safe. They may have made clear plans – they know where, when and how they will kill themselves.
If someone tells you they’re feeling overwhelmed by thoughts of suicide make sure they’re not left alone. Just begin asking about thoughts of suicide generally, if you are worried about the person’s immediate safety ask directly.
If the person feels unable to keep themselves safe and are at immediate risk of attempting suicide stay with them and do one of the following;
- Call 999 – The call is free. Explain what is happening. In this situation, calling an ambulance is the right action to take – not a waste of emergency services time as some people fear. You may also wish to contact emergency services;
- If said person is unable to keep themselves safe
- if the individual has attempted suicide, and either needs medical attention or police intervention
- If someone you are worried does not want to get help or has has gone missing
- Take them to a Hospital A&E– Find your nearest here.
- Call the NHS Universal Crisis Line on 111 and select the mental health option 2
It may also be helpful to remove things that someone could use to harm themselves, particularly if they have mentioned specific things they might use. It’s also important to help the person avoid alcohol and drugs when they are at risk.
If someone you are worried about cannot stay safe, or has taken steps to end their life, and they do not want to get help or have gone missing – call the police on 999.
While these may feel like a drastic steps to take it is a justifiable response to someone’s life being at risk. The police have the resources to find those who are vulnerable to suicide and get help to them quickly, including other emergency services if needed.
Local Crisis Numbers
If you, or someone you know, is having a mental health crisis:
Call the NHS Universal Crisis Line on 111 and select the mental health option 2
These are open 24 hrs a day/7 days a week and are for all ages.
Text number for users of British Sign Language (BSL)
07860 064 775 Available 24/7
Hope Haven – West Cumbria Mental Health Partnership
Hope Haven provides support and wellbeing activities around the Whitehaven and Copeland area for adults (18+). Drop in at The Senhouse Centre on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday between 9:30am – 4:30pm to talk to them about how they can support you. You can contact them via this form too. Call 01946 556136 (line open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm)
Book an online appointment with our ‘virtual safe haven’ to speak to a support worker between 4pm and midnight, seven days a week.
0300 561 0000 text Mind to 81066. Information, guidance and support. Midday-11pm Mon-Fri. 5-11pm Weekends.
Lancs and South Cumbria Mental Health Helpline
0800 953 0110 24/7 Mental Health and wellbeing helpline for Lancashire and South Cumbria
Lancs and South Cumbria Mental Health Textline
Text HELLO to 07860 022846 Mental Health and Wellbeing textline for Lancs and South Cumbria Mon-Fri 7pm-11pm, Sat/Sun 12pm-12am
National Helpline Numbers
Samaritans
116 123 – Whatever problems you are facing Samaritans are there to listen 24/7
CALM Campaign Against Living Miserably >
0800 58 58 58 – Helpline for anyone over the age of 15. 5pm – Midnight.
Webchat also available, 5pm – Midnight.
Papyrus Hopeline >
0800 068 4141 – Support and advice for Young People under 35. open 24/7.
SHOUT >
Text Shout to 85258 – Crisis text service for support with any mental health concern 24/7
Safety Planning
Every Life Matters – Safety Planning >
Advice and templates helping you to construct a suicide safety plan.
Staying Safe >
Online resource on safety planning
Papyrus >
Safety planning PDF with advice and space to write your own plan.
Mental Health in Autism >
Safety plan for those with autism
Mental Health
Samaritans Call 116 123
Whatever problems you are facing Samaritans are there to listen 24/7
SHOUT Text Shout to 85258
Crisis text service for support with any mental health concern 24/7
MindLine Cumbria – 0300 561 0000 text Mind to 81066
Information, guidance and support, Midday-11pm Mon-Fri. 5-11pm Weekends
Lancs and South Cumbria Mental Health Helpline and Texting Service:
0800 953 0110 24/7 Mental Health and wellbeing helpline for Lancashire and South Cumbria, or by text Hello to 07860 022 846.
Call service is available Monday to Friday 7pm-11pm and Saturday to Sunday 12pm to midnight.
Text service is available Monday to Friday 10am-11pm and Saturday to Sunday 12pm to midnight.
CALM Campaign Against Living Miserably 0800 58 58 58
Helpline for anyone over the age of 15. 5pm – Midnight.
Webchat also available, 5pm – Midnight
Silverline 0800 470 80 90
Information, friendship and advice for older people 24/7
Young Minds Parent Line 0808 802 5544
Advice for parents and carers worried about a young person 9.30-4pm Mon-Fri (until 6pm on Tues-Wed).
Papyrus Hopeline 0800 068 4141
Support and advice for Young People under 35. 9am-Midnight every day
The Mix
Advice and support for under 25s, peer support chats
Childline 0800 11 11
Support for anyone under 19, 24/7 and online 1-2-1 chat
SANEline
If you’re experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else, you can call SANEline on 0300 304 7000 (4pm–10pm every day).
Nightline Directory
If you’re a student, you can look on the Nightline website to see if your university or college offers a night-time listening service. Nightline phone operators are all students too.
Switchboard
If you identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, you can call Switchboard on 0800 0119100 (10am–10pm every day), email chris@switchboard.lgbt or use their webchat service. Phone operators all identify as LGBT+
C.A.L.L.
If you live in Wales, you can call the Community Advice and Listening Line (C.A.L.L.) on 0800 132 737 (open 24/7) or you can text ‘help’ followed by a question to 81066.
Helplines Partnership
For more options, visit the Helplines Partnership website for a directory of UK helplines. If you’re outside the UK, the Befrienders Worldwide website has a tool to search by country for emotional support helplines around the world.
Mind Support Line
Call Mind’s support line on 0300 102 1234. A safe space for you to talk about your mental health. Advisors are trained to listen to you and help you find specialist support if you need it. Open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except bank holidays).
Side by Side
Mind’s online support community. A place to be heard, listen and share. (Formerly Elefriends.)
Togetherall
A safe community to support your mental health, 24/7. Get support. Take control. Feel better. (Not commissioned in all areas)
Kooth
An online mental wellbeing community for young people. (Not commissioned in all areas)
NHS Self Help Guides
Self-help guides for a range of mental health issues produced by Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS.
Every Mind Matters
NHS Mental Health and Wellbeing advice from how to deal with stress and anxiety to how to sleep better including a list of NHS recommended Apps
Good Thinking
Online wellbeing resources and guides produced by London NHS services
Stay Alive
A suicide prevention resource for the UK, packed full of useful information and tools to help you stay safe in crisis. You can use it if you are having thoughts of suicide or if you are concerned about someone else who may be considering suicide.
Calm Harm
An app designed to help people resist or manage the urge to self-harm.
DistrACT
Get quick, easy and discreet access to information and advice about self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
My possible self
Allows you to pick from 10 modules to learn how to manage fear, anxiety and stress, and take control of your thoughts, feelings and behaviour.
STOPP
An app help you to change negative cycles of behaviour and enables you to make changes to your thoughts, feelings and behaviours to live a more skilful, less impulsive life.
Catch It
Helps you learn to look at problems differently, turn negative thoughts into positive ones and improve your mental wellbeing.
Feeling good
Helps you improve your thoughts, feelings, self-esteem and self-confidence using the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy.
SAM
An app to help you understand and manage anxiety.
Headspace
Headspace is a science-backed app in mindfulness and meditation, providing unique tools and resources to help reduce stress, build resilience, and aid better sleep.
County Wide
MindLine Cumbria
0300 561 0000 text Mind to 81066
Information, guidance and support. Midday-11pm Mon-Fri. 5-11pm Weekends
People First
Provide advocacy and representation and Healthwatch across Cumbria 03003 038037
SAFA
Self Harm Awareness for All: Offer counselling and support for individuals aged 11+ who self harm. 01229 832269
North and East Cumbria
Carlisle Eden Mind
01228 543354 including the Connect Service, the Lighthouse and Your Voice (independent advocacy throughout Cumbria)
Growing Well – Tebay
Growing Well is a free mental health service for adults in Cumbria. Providing support to rebuild confidence, learn new skills, and meet new life goals through growing activities at their kitchen-garden at Tebay with people attending for one day per week for up to a year. 07512 316 564
South Cumbria
Mind in Furness
01229 827094 including supported housing, peer support, drop-in services
Growing Well – Sizergh
Growing Well is a free mental health service for adults in Cumbria and North Lancashire. Providing support to rebuild confidence, learn new skills, and meet new life goals through growing and catering activities at their six acre farm and kitchen at Sizergh with people attending for one day per week for up to a year. 07903 013 648
West Cumbria
Together We
Counselling, wellbeing and group support across West Cumbria
Always another Way
Building stronger communities through local projects in West Cumbria
Healthy Hopes
Promoting mental health and wellbeing across Cumbria
Hope Haven – West Cumbria Mental Health Partnership
Hope Haven provides support and wellbeing activities around the Whitehaven and Copeland area for adults (18+). Drop in at The Senhouse Centre on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday between 9:30am – 4:30pm to talk to them about how they can support you. You can contact them via this form too. Call 01946 556136 (line open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm)
Book an online appointment with our ‘virtual safe haven’ to speak to a support worker between 4pm and midnight, seven days a week.
Counselling
Find a Local Counsellor at The Counselling Directory or BACP Directory: British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
What to do in a mental health emergency?
Call the NHS Universal Crisis Line on 111 and select the mental health option 2
Text number for users of British Sign Language (BSL)
07860 064 775 Available 24/7
Mental Health Services
NHS Talking Therapies – North Cumbria
0300 123 9122 Currently offering telephone based and online CBT therapy
NHS Talking Therapies – South Cumbria
0300 555 0345 Currently offering telephone based and online CBT therapy
ANIS Anorexia Nervosa Intensive Service South Cumbria
ANIS Anorexia Nervosa Intensive Service North Cumbria
Eating Disorder Service – South Cumbria
Eating Disorder Service – North Cumbria
CAMHS North – Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
Referral to CAMHS and MyTime made via CAMHS referral form obtained via local office. Referrals can only be made through professionals such as teachers, social workers, GPs etc. No self-referral accepted. East (Carlisle & Eden) 01228 603017 camhs.east1@nhs.net. West 01900 705800 camhs.west1@nhs.net.
CAMHS South – Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
Referrals through Tel 01225 408660 or camhssouth@nhs.net Self-referrals can be made through Healthy Young Minds LSC
NHS 111
For NHS advice and referral for any health or mental health related issues, 24/7.
NHS Pharmacies
In Cumbria, every pharmacy has Every Life Matters resources, and many pharmacies have healthy living champions to help with signposting to local support.
Lancs and South Cumbria Mental Health Wellbeing Helpline and Texting Service
Listening service for the residents of Lancashire and South Cumbria. It is a Freephone out of hours, person-centred listening environment for people requiring emotional support in relation to their own wellbeing and mental health or that of someone they know.
Contact the helpline on 0800 915 4640 or by texting Hello to 07860 022 846.
Monday to Thursday – closed
Friday – 7pm to 11pm
Saturday and Sunday – 4pm to 11pm
Anxiety UK
Providing information, advice and support for people with anxiety and anxiety based depression. Infoline 03444 775774
B-eat
Supporting people affected by eating disorders. Helpline: 0808 8010677 Youth Line: 0808 8010711
Helplines are open from 3pm– 8pm, Monday to Friday.
Bipolar UK Peer Support Line
Need information or advice? Call 0333 323 3885, leave a message and we’ll call you back. Or email us at info@bipolaruk.org
Mental Health Foundation
Mental health resources and information
Mind
Mental health information and self help guides. Support Line: 0300 123 3393. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm
No Panic
Support and information for anxiety disorders and panic attacks Helpline 0300 772 9844 Daily 10am-10pm
RETHINK
Provides information, guidance and support to those experiencing severe mental illness, their carers and relatives. 0808 801 0525
SANE
Provides information, guidance and support and advice to people experiencing mental illness including Saneline 0300 304 7000
Supportline
Provide confidential emotional support. Helpline 01708 765200
Time to Change
Providing resources to tackle mental health stigma
Waythrough
Confidential support for mental health, drugs, alcohol or related challenges.
Self Harm
National Information, Advice and Support
Alumina
Information, online support and Alumina, a 6-week online self-help course for 11-19s.
Self-injury Support
Information and telephone, text and web chat support
Beat Eating Disorders
Information, advice, helpline and online support groups
Life Signs
Information, guidance and online support
Young Minds
Information, advice and also has a parents’ helpline
Papyrus
Information, advice and helpline for people under 35
Local Support
SAFA
Counselling and Information across Cumbria
Kooth
Online support, discussion and tools.
TogetherAll
Online support community
Westmoreland and Furness Family Hubs
Your child’s GP, school or other support organisation can make a referral for young people to either My Time (Barnardo’s Mental Health Support) or Child and Adolescent NHS Mental Health Services.
MyTime South Cumbria supports 5-18yr olds, offering emotional health and wellbeing support. MyTimeSouthCumbria@barnardos.org.uk or call 01539 74 26 26
North Cumbria Mental Health Support Team supports 5-18yr olds, offering emotional health and wellbeing support. WS.CarlisleMHST@barnardos.org.uk
NHS Mental Health Crisis Support
If you, or someone you know, is having a mental health crisis then call the NHS Universal Crisis Line on 111 and select the mental health option 2
Ideas for Distractions
Information and support for Parents and Carers
Young Minds Parents’ Helpline 08080 802 5544
Advice to parents and carers worried about a child or young person under 25. Open Monday to Friday 9.30-4.00pm.
Anna Freud Centre
Information and resources to how you talk to your child about mental health and self-harm
MindEd
Free online courses for parents and carers on mental health issues affecting children and young people
Stem4
Information, guidance and Apps to support parents and Young People
Bereavement Support
Support in Cumbria
Every Life Matters
One-to-one support for people bereaved and affected by suicide.
Please get in touch with Paul to arrange support, or find out more about our Peer Support Groups. Call 07588 016 166 or email support@every-life-matters.org.uk
Child Bereavement UK
Offering bereavement support to children and young people bereaved by suicide in Cumbria. National helpline: 0800 0288840. Cumbria: 01539 628 311 cumbriasupport@childbereavementuk.org
Cruse Cumbria
Support to people bereaved by suicide. Helpline: 0808 808 1677
Coroners Court Support Service
Provide practical and emotional support to families bereaved by suicide at a coroners’ court. Helpline 0300 1112141 Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. Helpline@ccss.org.uk
Together We
Provide counselling and wellbeing support to people bereaved by suicide in West Cumbria
Time to Share Bereavement Service
Provide Play therapy support to children in Copeland. Your children’s school or support worker can make a referral to the service.
National information, advice and support
Support after Suicide
Providing information and support following a suicide including the ‘Help is at Hand’ and ‘Finding the Words’
Suicide & Co
Website to support bereaved individuals and open the conversation around suicide-related grief.
Local support via AtaLoss– find local organisations and groups who provide suicide bereavement support
The Compassionate Friends – supporting bereaved parents and their families. Helpline: 0345 123 2304, 10am – 4pm and 7pm – 10pm 24/7. Email: helpline@tcf.org.uk
SOBS
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide – Information, guidance and National Helpline 0300 1115065
Helplines
SOBS UK
Call 0300 111 5065 – 9am to 9pm Monday to Friday – Support and guidance for people bereaved and affected by suicide
Child Bereavement UK
Offering bereavement support to children and young people. National helpline: 0800 0288840, Mon-Friday 9am-4:30pm (incorporating Winston’s Wish). Live chat and email: helpline@childbereavementuk.org
Coroners Court Support Service
Provide practical and emotional support to families bereaved by suicide at a coroners’ court. Helpline 0300 1112141 Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. Helpline@ccss.org.uk
Support in Cumbria
Child Bereavement UK
Offering bereavement support to children and young people and if a child dies. National helpline: 0800 0288840. Child Bereavement UK Cumbria: 01539 628 311 cumbriasupport@childbereavementuk.org
Cruse Cumbria
Bereavement Counselling Support. Local Help Line: 0300 6003434
The Silent Footprints Foundation
A warm, safe, and inclusive space for anyone affected by pregnancy or infant loss at any stage — including miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, medical termination, stillbirth, or infant loss. With monthly support groups in West and North Cumbria
Email contact: silentfootprints2019@gmail.com
Coroners Court Support Service
Provide practical and emotional support to families bereaved by suicide at a coroners’ court. Helpline 0300 1112141 Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. Helpline@ccss.org.uk
National Information, advice and support
Cruse
Support, advice and information to children, young people and adults when someone dies. National Helpline 0808 8081677
BEAD
Bereaved by alcohol or Drugs Project ran by CRUSE and ADFAM
Winston’s Wish
Providing support and guidance to bereaved children or anyone concerned about a grieving child. 0808 8020021
Child Bereavement UK
Offering bereavement support to children and young people and if a child dies. National helpline: 0800 0288840
Lullaby Trust
Support for anyone affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a baby or young child
Sudden
Support when someone has died suddenly, or too soon in their lives
WAY: Widowed and Young
Support for people aged 50 or under when their partner died
Children and Young People
Safeguarding Children in Cumbria
Cumberland Safeguarding Children Partnership | Cumberland Safeguarding Children Partnership
For information on the Cumberland Early Help service, click here.
Westmorland and Furness Safeguarding Children Partnership
For information on the Westmorland and Furness Early Help service, click here.
CAMHS North – Child and Adolescent NHS Mental Health Services
Referral to CAMHS and My Time made via CAMHS referral form obtained via local office. Referrals can only be made through professionals such as teachers, social workers, GPs etc. No self-referral accepted. East (Carlisle & Eden) 01228 603017 camhs.east1@nhs.net. West 01900 705800 camhs.west1@nhs.net
CAMHS South – Child and Adolescent NHS Mental Health Services
Referrals through Tel 01225 408660 or CAMHSSouth@lscft.nhs.uk Self-referrals can be made through Healthy Young Minds LSC
Action for Children
Child and Family support services in South Lakeland
Barnardos
Various services across Cumbria including targeted support, missing from home, My Time (access via CAMHS) also run child and family support in Eden.
South Cumbria: Lancashire and South Cumbria Thrive Service | Barnardo’s (barnardos.org.uk)
North Cumbria: MyTime Cumbria | Barnardo’s (barnardos.org.uk)
Family Action
Child and Family support services in Barrow, Copeland, Allerdale and Carlisle
Brathay
Support for young people in South Cumbria
Carlisle Youth Zone
Youth work in Carlisle 01228516280
Cumbria Family Support
Providing support to families across North and West Cumbria 01768 593102
Cumbria Youth Alliance
Providing support and run projects for young people within the community
Dropzone
Youth work in the Furness area 01229 812888
Inspira
Careers and development service across Cumbria including NCI programme 0345 658 8647
Kooth
Free safe anonymous online support for young people commissioned by Cumbria County Council. Online support Mon- Fri 12-10pm, Sat – Sun 6-10pm
PAC Therapy
Provide therapy to young people in Carlisle
Wave Forward
Offering mental health support to YP in South Lakeland
Young Minds
Information and advice and support on young people’s mental health including:
- Young Minds Parents Line 0808 802 5544 (9.30am – 4pm on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, 9.30am – 6pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
- Information about medication
Anna Freud Centre
On line resource and support for children, families and schools
Family Lives
Providing resources for families on a wide range of issues including Bullying UK
Helpline 0808 8002222 Mon- Fri 9am-9pm, weekends 10am-3pm
Message us via WhatsApp on 07441 444125 for support with parenting and family life worries.
The Mix
Advice and support for under 25s on mental health, physical health, relationships, drugs, peer support chats
Muslim Youth Helpline
Helpline 0808 808 2008 4-10pm
Childline
0800 11 11 Support 24/7 and on line 1-2-1 chat
Papyrus – Prevention Young Suicide
Support and advice for Young People under 35 who may be feeling suicidal. Call the Hopeline on 0800 068 4141 24/7.
Online Safety for Teens
A blog about digital safety for parents and carers
Local & National Support for Neurodiversity and Suicide Prevention
Triple A support autistic adults right across Cumbria to share their experiences, create new friendships and navigate life through our Navigator Programme and Social Groups. They also support autistic people looking for jobs into employment, and run NHS-funded post-diagnostic courses. Website: www.tripleaproject.org.uk
Owl Blue work with people and their families with hidden disabilities and those who share their lives, based in West Cumbria. Website: www.owlblue.org
Autus Cumbria supports autistic children and adults by offering social opportunities, support, training and advocacy, based in Barrow-in-Furness. Website: www.autuscumbria.com
Team Autism work with autistic adults to facilitate social activities, raise awareness of services in the community and give training to people about autism.
Website: www.teamautism.co.uk
Grassroots Stay Alive: Neurodiversity Hub
A wealth of information about nuerodiversity and suicide prevention.
Website: www.prevent-suicide.org.uk/neurodiversity-suicide-prevention-hub/
Ambitious About Autism
Information and practical support for children, young people and families, as well as specialist education and employment programmes.
Website: www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk/
National Autistic Society
Trained volunteers run support, information and social activities for autistic adults, children and their families in their local area.
Website: www.autism.org.uk/
National Autistic Society – Directory
A directory of UK-wide or local organisations and services that are specifically for, or have adapted their services, to meet the needs of autistic people and/or their families.
Website: www.autism.org.uk/autism-services-directory
National Autistic Society – mental health hub
Advice and guidance on a range of topics related to autism and mental health.
Website: www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/mental-health
Stay Alive a safety planning app, a place to store photos, music, or memories as a reason for living.
Emergency Chat (apple only) is an app that can be used in any situation where speech is impossible but communication is still necessary.
Molehill Mountain is an app to help autistic people understand and self-manage the symptoms and causes of anxiety.
Autistica – mental health & autism The Autistica Tips Hub is a free app that offers practical tips and high-quality resources to make everyday life easier.
Talking about suicide
Prevent Suicide’s advice for talking to someone about suicide.
Website: www. prevent-suicide.org.uk/neurodiversity-suicide-prevention-hub/#talk-about-suicide
Autism Central
Advice and support for parents and carers of children, young people and adults.
Website: www.autismcentral.org.uk/
Child Autism
Dedicated to helping children with autism achieve their potential, they provide services and advice to families who have an autistic child.
Website: www.childautism.org.uk/
Autistica – meltdowns
Advice and guidance for those supporting an autistic person experiencing distress or a meltdown.
Website: www.autistica.org.uk/what-is-autism/supporting-meltdowns
National Autistic Society – Good Practice Guide
Produced in collaboration with Mind, this guide aims to help mental health professionals adapt talking therapies for autistic adults and children.
Website: www.autism.org.uk/shop/products/books-and-resources/good-practice-guide
The ADHD Foundation
A range of resources for parents, carers, and professionals on supporting neurodivergent individuals.
Website: www.adhdfoundation.org.uk/resources/
Debt, Benefits, Housing, Employment
Foodbanks can provide emergency food parcels in a crisis.
Provides free, impartial and confidential advice National Advice Line 03444 111 444
Local offices:
Allerdale 01900 604735
Barrow 0808 278 7817
Carlisle/Eden 0808 2 78 78 44
Copeland (Whitehaven) 01946 693321, (Millom) 01229 772395
South Lakes (Kendal) 0808 278 7984, (Ulverston) 03 444 111 444
Free advice & help to those in debt. Centres in Penrith, Carlisle, Whitehaven, Barrow and Ulverston. 0800 328 0006
Free legal advice and representation for people living in Cumbria. 01228 515129
Providing advice and support to the homeless, vulnerably housed and lonely in South Lakeland
Providing housing support to young people in Carlisle
Providing free energy saving advice and equipment to make homes warmer and more comfortable
CAB Citizens Advice
Provides free, impartial and confidential advice National Advice Line 03444 111 444
Christians Against Poverty
Free advice & help to those in debt with debt centres in Cumbria 0800 328 0006
National Debtline
Free confidential debt advice 0808 808 4000 9am-8pm
Money Advice Service
Free debt advice and online resource 0800 138 7777 8am-6pm
Shelter
Free housing advice and on line resource Helpline 0808 8004444 Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-5pm
ACAS
Online resource on employment rights
Working Families
National charity with advice for working parents
Various Support
Police
Non emergency: 101
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
24 hour free national domestic abuse helpline 0808 2000 247
Men’s Helpline
Freephone support line for men affected by domestic abuse 0808 8010327 Mon-Fri 10am-5pm
Independent Domestic and Sexual Violence Advisers IDSVAs in Cumbria
List of independent domestic and sexual violence advisers in Cumbria
The Birchall Trust
Offers support to those affected by rape and sexual abuse in South Cumbria and North Lancashire. 01229 820828
Bridgeway Sexual Assault Support Service
Providing support for anyone in Cumbria who has been raped or sexually assaulted 0330 223 0099 (24hrs)
The Freedom Project
Providing support in West Cumbria Helpline 07712 117986
Safety Net
Supporting those affected by rape, exploitation sexual abuse or domestic violence in North & West Cumbria 01228 515859
Springfield
Provides support for anyone affected by domestic abuse in South Lakeland 08081757070
Victim Support
Victim Support in Cumbria. If you’ve been affected by crime, call your local victim care team in Cumbria on 0300 303 0157. Mon to Fri, 8am-6pm
National Support
ADFAM
Support for families affected by drugs and alcohol
Alcoholics Anonymous
Details of local self support group for anyone hoping to recover from alcoholism. Helpline0800 9177 650
GAMCARE
Provides support & advice to anyone with a gambling problem. National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020133 24/7
Frank
Advice, information and support for anyone concerned about drugs and substance misuse. Helpline: 0300 123 6600 24/7 Text 82111
Narcotics Anonymous
Self-support group for anyone hoping to recover from a drug problem. 0300 9991212 Helpline 10.00am – midnight
We are with you
Confidential advice and support (formerly Addaction)
Local Support
Recovery Steps Cumbria
Commissioned Drug and Alcohol Recovery Service across Cumbria, local offices within Carlisle, Barrow-in-Furness, Workington, Whitehaven, Kendal and Penrith. Email: referrals@recoverystepscumbria.org.uk 01900 512300
CADAS
Countywide confidential support and help with drug and alcohol issues from aged 10+ 0300 114002. For help with addictive behaviour, call: 0800 254 5658
The Well
Provides support to people in South Cumbria recovering from drug and alcohol addiction through therapy, counselling, peer mentoring, employment training and social activities.
Barrow-in-Furness Hub (Westmorland and Furness): 01229 829832
Kendal Hub (Westmorland and Furness): 01539 725906
Carlisle Hub (Cumberland): 01228 217215
Health & Wellbeing Officers
For young people under the age of 18 who show substance misuse needs including alcohol. North Cumbria 0782 5340514; West Cumbria 0788 7947621; South Cumbria 0790 0060645
Waythrough
Confidential support for mental health, drugs, alcohol or related challenges.
Combat Stress
Providing mental health support and advice to serving and ex-military. Helplines available 24/7 Veterans and families: 0800 138 1619
Textline number: 07537 173683
Veterans Gateway
Providing advice and support on housing, money, mental wellbeing Helpline, every day, 8am-8pm 0808 8021212
SSAFA
Providing advice and support on housing, money, mental wellbeing to serving and ex-military personnel. Helpline 0800 260 6780 Mon-Thurs 9am-5pm, Friday 9am-4pm. Live chat available.
British Legion
Providing advice and support on housing, money, mental wellbeing to serving and ex-military personnel. Helpline 0808 802 8080 8am-8pm. Live chat available.
NHS: Mental health support for veterans, service leavers and reservists Find mental health information and support for veterans, service leavers, reservists, families and carers.
Op COURAGE: The Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Service provides specialist care and support for those due to leave the armed forces, reservists and those who’ve already left. Developed by veterans, for veterans, Op COURAGE is available across England.
Perinatal Community Mental Health Team (North Cumbria)
The perinatal team will provide a community service to support women experiencing mental health difficulties related to pregnancy, childbirth and early motherhood. Phone: 01228 602 099
Happy Mums Foundation
Happy Mums focus on offering peer support to mums with mental health problems from pregnancy and throughout their life as a mother. Phone 01228 592301
Womens Community Matters
Offer a wide range of support for women in the Barrow area. You can call us on 01229 311102 or email reception@womenscommunitymatters.org
Women out West
Offer a wide range of support for women in the Copeland area
Gateway 4 Women
Offering a wide range of support for women in the Carlisle area
We aim to provide personalised holistic support for pregnant women in deprived communities and those with complex social factors across North Cumbria.
Supporting parents who have experienced birth trauma.
The Silent Footprints Foundation
A warm, safe, and inclusive space for anyone affected by pregnancy or infant loss at any stage — including miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, medical termination, stillbirth, or infant loss. With monthly support groups in West and North Cumbria
Email contact: silentfootprints2019@gmail.com
Men In Sheds
Men’s Sheds are kitted out community spaces where men can enjoy practical hobbies. They’re about making friends, learning and sharing skills.
Andy’s Man Club
Run talking groups for men who have either been through a storm, are currently going through a storm or have a storm brewing in life. Nationwide talking groups run every Monday evening
Support with day to day living due to illness or disability
Information of what support and resources are available
NHS
NHS online resource, health guides, finding your nearest GP, pharmacist etc. For non urgent advice ring 111
Disability Associations
Services and support for people with disabilities in Cumbria
Barrow & District Disability Association 01229 432599 www.bdda.org.uk
Allerdale 01900 61912 www.allerdaledisability.com
Healthwatch
Feedback and reviews of health and social care in Cumbria 03000 283 000 Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30pm
Owl Blue
A charity in Cumbria supporting those with hidden disabilities, as well as their families and friends.
Learning Disabilities
Easy Read NHS Mental Health Self Help Guides
Self-help guides for a range of mental health issues produced by Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS
People First
Support, advocacy and representation across Cumbria 03003 038037
Support in North Cumbria
Links to support available in North Cumbria
Support in South Cumbria
Links to support available in South Cumbria
Carers UK
Help and Advice to make life better for carers
NHS Carers Direct
Contact the NHS Carers Direct helpline, on 0300 123 1053 for further information and signposting to local sources of support in England. Or visit them at the NHS website to get help using webchat and email.
Local Carers Support
Information about support organisations in Cumbria
AGE UK
Advice and Information. Helpline 0800 6781602 Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. Branches throughout Cumbria.
Alzheimers Society
Information and support and links to local branches
Copeland Age and Advice Service (CAAS)
Helping over 55’s in Copeland to live independently 01946 552166
Silverline
0800 470 80 90 Information, friendship and advice for older people 24/7
Farming Community Network
Pastoral and practical support for the farming community. Helpline 0300 111 999 7am-11pm
RABI
Providing support to farming families. Call 0800 188 4444
Free, available 24 hours
Supporting Farmers in Times of Uncertainty
Public Health Wales document: click here
AHDB
Practical guidance, information around money, mental health issues or any others concerns
YANA
Help for those involved in agriculture and other rural businesses affected by stress and depression. Call our helpline 0300 323 0400 for confidential support every Monday to Friday between 10am and 1pm to speak to someone directly.
MindOut
LGBTQ+ mental health support
Stonewall
Support for LGBTQ+ Community
Outreach Cumbria
Countywide support and advice for LGBTQ+
LGBThq Cumbria
Provides support and advice including free counselling to LGBTQ+ also Sticky Bits Café PiNC Youth
Queer Cumbria Directory
Some useful links for local and national groups that work to support the LGBTQ+ community.
Furness LGBTQ+ Youth Group
Brings together people to celebrate diversity and give young people a voice in our community.
Proud and Diverse Cumbria
Promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion to enable the acceptance of diverse communities in (West) Cumbria.
Switchboard
If you identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, you can call Switchboard on 0800 0119 100 (10am–10pm every day), email chris@switchboard.lgbt or use their webchat service. Phone operators all identify as LGBT+.
Boloh, Barnardos Helpline
Boloh Helpline offers advice, signposting, emotional support and free therapy to adult asylum seekers UK Wide. The Helpline is open Monday – Friday (10am-8pm) and Saturday (10-3pm) via phone 0800 151 2605
Muslim Community Helpline
A confidential, non-judgemental listening and emotional support service. Monday to Thursday: 10am-1pm. Friday: 10am-4pm Contact numbers: 0208 908 6715 or 0208 904 8193 or via Email: ess4m@btinternet.com
Religion Belief and Culture in our Community
Cumbria supplement to a national resource
Refugee Council
Providing information for refugees
Anti Racist Cumbria
They aim to make Cumbria the UK’s first actively anti-racist county.
Multi Cultural Carlisle
Multicultural Cumbria has been set up to empower minority groups & the wider community. We aim to improve communication on grass roots level. Building confidence, self esteem, social opportunities and community cohesion
South Lakeland Equality and Diversity Partnership
SLEDP seek to reduce inequality on the grounds of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, rurality and religion/belief whilst celebrating diversity and reducing discrimination
Barnados Refugee Family Helpline
Our Helpline provides emotional and practical support as well as advice and signposting to children, young people and their families. Call us on 0808 156 9877
Furness Multi-Cultural Community Forum
Inclusion youth and community work in the Barrow in Furness area.
