Whether you love it or loathe it, the festive season is upon us and we know that it is not always an easy time for everyone. For some, Christmas can be a challenging period that brings added pressure, stress or a sense of isolation.
At Disability Assist, we want to make sure you know that you’re not alone. We will be shut for a short time to give our dedicated staff a well-deserved break and details of our closing dates can be found in our December e-newsletter. It may take longer than usual to receive a response from us and if you would prefer not to wait, there are many local resources available across Kent to help you get through the festive period if you need it.
Mental Health Support
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just need someone to talk to, help is available around the clock.
Release the Pressure – this helpline is available 24/7 for anyone struggling with their mental health. Call 0800 107 0160 or text the word SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential support.
The Samaritans – they are also open 24/7 if you need someone to listen. Call them at 116 123 or send an email to jo@samaritans.org.
Kent and Medway Safe Havens - offer crisis mental health support to anyone aged over 16, in safe, comfortable and supportive environments. Open every night for face-to-face support, there are Safe Havens in Gillingham, Maidstone, Margate and Canterbury.
Physical Health & Wellbeing
For any non-emergency health concerns, the NHS and community services are on hand to help.
Stop Think Choose – helps you to choose the correct treatment when you need it.
NHS 111 – call for free medical advice or guidance, 24 hours a day. You can also visit their website for more information.
Local pharmacist - most minor illnesses will get better without the need to visit a doctor and can be treated at home. A pharmacist can give you advice on how to treat your condition and the majority of pharmacists in Kent and Medway are also part of the Pharmacy First scheme, where they can issue a prescription, if necessary, for seven specific conditions, including urinary tract infections for woman aged 16-64.
Food and Essential Support
No one should go without food or the essentials, especially at Christmas.
Trussell Trust Food Bank – provides food and support to people in need. Use their online locator to find a food bank near you.
Kent Support and Assistance Service (KSAS) - can provide emergency help with essential items like food and utilities for those in financial crisis. However, please note that there are a number of eligibility conditions. More information can be found on their website.
Housing and Homelessness
If you or someone you know needs emergency accommodation or housing advice, there are dedicated services ready to help.
Porchlight - Kent-based charity offering support to those who are homeless or facing housing difficulties. Call them on 0300 365 7699 if you are worried about homelessness for yourself or someone else or visit their website.
Shelter - provides expert advice on housing issues and legal support. Their helpline is 0808 800 4444. They also have a webchat facility on their website, although please note that both are closed during bank holidays.
Loneliness
The festive season can sometimes feel isolating, but there are services to help combat loneliness.
The Silver Line - a helpline, run by Age UK, for older people feeling lonely or in need of companionship or support. They are available 24/7 at 0800 4708090.
Crisis Support and Domestic Abuse
If you find yourself in a crisis situation or need urgent support, there are services available to help keep you safe.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline - available 24/7 at 0808 2000 247 for anyone experiencing domestic abuse.
Victim Support Kent - offers emotional and practical support to victims of crime. The number for the local team is 0808 168 9276. If you need help outside of their opening hours, they have a 24/7 helpline which is 0808 1689 111. There is also a free webchat service on their website.
Local Council Contacts
Your local council can also provide additional support and emergency services over the Christmas period and you can search for your own council’s contact details online.
From all of us at Disability Assist, we wish you a peaceful and safe Christmas and we look forward to supporting you over the festive season. If you need to contact us, simply click the button below.
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