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Welcome to the Self Help Hub's guide to supporting services & resources - listed under this section D are resources supporting the following subject areas: Deafness, Debt, Depression, Diabetes, Disability, Discrimination,  Divorce & Separation, Domestic Abuse, Driving Test/Driving Safety, Drugs, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia & DCD, Dyscalculia.

999 - BSL VIDEO RELAY SERVICE
999 BSL is the name of the UK’s first ever Emergency Video Relay Service in British Sign Language (BSL). The service is available to download as a smartphone app (iOS and Android) and access as a web-based platform. 

NATIONAL DEAF AWARENESS WEEK 
NDA is an annual celebration - for 2024 it will be celebrated on May 7 - May 13, 2024 aiming to raise awareness of deafness.  The theme for 2023 is #Access to Communication.  Check the NCDS website or UK Council for Deafness for more information and resources.

ACTION DEAFNESS 0116 2533212 (for comm's interpreting)
Deaf-led charity run by specialists who provide specialist, accessible & equal services so that Deaf people can lead full, independent lives.

BSLBT (British Sign Language Broadcasting Trust) - BSL Zone Player
The British Sign Language Broadcasting Trust (BSLBT) commissions television programmes made in British Sign Languages for Deaf BSL users. All of these programmes are available on the BSL Zone player.

BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE
The British Standard for communicating with deaf people. Low cost training available.

THE BUZZ
Specialist website for deaf young people aged 8-18 - part of the NCDS. Get information and support, read inspiring stories and connect with other deaf young people - site is age ranged to suit your needs.  Link to BSL intro to The Buzz here on their You Tube Channel. 

CODA (Children of Deaf Adults)
Events, resources and support for children of deaf adults.

DEAF GAMERS (age 18+)
Reviews of software and games from the perspective of deaf users. 

DEAF MUSLIM
07412 650755 (text only)
"Founded and governed by Deaf people to establish and enhance the lives of Deaf Muslims since 1994. Our team is deeply committed to supporting and encouraging the learning and development of Deaf people from diverse backgrounds through education and empowerment."
 

DEAF RAINBOW
hello@deafrainbow.org.uk
Information and resources for Deaf LGBTIQA+ people.

DEAF ZONE (Childline) 
If you are Deaf or hard of hearing you can contact Childline with SignVideo which lets you contact a counsellor through a BSL interpreter anytime from Monday – Friday, 8am-8pm. Saturdays, 8am-1pm.

Childline also have a dedicated area 'The Deaf Zone' with advice and support around issues such as bullying, online safety, divorce & separation, discrimination/rights which are available in both English and British Sign Language (BSL).

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE
Currently their services are offered across the Boroughs of St Helens, Halton and Knowsley. Their Children, Young People and Families Service also covers the Merseyside region.  Offers useful resources including:
- BSL Finger Spelling Alphabet Sheet

INTERPRETER NOW
InterpreterNow is a service that enables deaf and hearing people to communicate with each-other. We deliver immediate access to online interpreting for deaf British Sign Language (BSL) users.

The service can be accessed through any laptop, PC/Mac or, Android or Apple tablet and smartphone via the InterpreterNow App.  Watch the Interpreter Now video here explaining how it works.

NATIONAL DEAF CHILDREN'S SOCIETY
The UK's leading charity for deaf children offering information and support.
Check out their You Tube channel to see videos such as : Deaf Awareness, There Are Lots of Ways to Chat.

NATIONAL ENERGY ACTION - 0800 304 7159
National Energy Action (NEA) are the national fuel poverty charity, who offer advice, information and support including with link to BSL interpreter if required and to BSL signed videos using this link here.
Offer a Warm and Safe Homes (WASH) Advice webchat support service -link to NEA WASH webchat here.

RELAY UK
Relay is a free to use national relay service (all you pay are your normal call charges) helping anyone with hearing loss or speech impairment to communicate over the phone using a live relay assistant which will type what the caller is saying so you can read responses if you can't hear or reads your written responses to the caller if you are speech impaired.  This service has replaced Next Generation Text.

ROYAL ASSOCIATION FOR DEAF PEOPLE - RAD 'Talk More' Chat Service
Deaf and need information, advice or support?  Talk to the RDA live on their TalkMore web chat via our website (link to service explanation video here) for support, information and advice between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, available to deaf people living in the UK, providing wellbeing support and general information and advice on a variety of topics including benefits, housing, health, education, employment and much more.  The RDA also supports referrals and signposting.  Access RAD's You Tube channel in BSL - link here .

RNID (previously Action on Hearing Loss) 0808 808 0123, textphone 0808 808 9000
The UK’s leading charity supporting people with hearing loss, deafness and tinnitus. Advice and support including information line, tinnitus helplines and factsheets.

SEE HEAR - BBC
BBC's monthly magazine news programme for the deaf community. 

SIGN HEALTH 020 3947 2600
SMS: 07966 976 749
Signhealth is a charity dedicated to making sure deaf people get the same sort of access as hearing people to healthcare and health information. They provide accessible support and information including videos in BSL.

You can contact SignHealth in BSL, using their online interpreting service which is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

BSL calls can be made from desktop computers, laptops, tablets, or smartphones. You just need to have a good internet connection and a webcam or built in camera. Step by step details on the Signhealth website - link here.

SIGNHEALTH DOMESTIC ABUSE TEAM 
Text 07800 003421
da@signhealth.org.uk
Signhealth's domestic abuse service (previously known as DeafHope) is a unique, Deaf-led service for Deaf people who have or are experiencing domestic abuse. The service is the first and only one of its kind in the UK. 

TINNITUS UK  - 0800 018 0527
Tinnitus helpline runs Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm.

Tinnitus is unique to the person experiencing it. But ultimately it is the sensation of hearing a sound when there is no external source for that sound. Someone with tinnitus may hear ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling or other noises. Tinnitus can be there all the time or come and go. The volume of someone’s tinnitus can vary from one episode to the next. 

Tinnitus comes in many types, but Tinnitus UK is here for everyone living with tinnitus.  

FURTHER INFORMATION
See also - Learning Support for resources on Makaton and other visual methods of supporting speech and learning.

If you have debt or money worries, please go to the Money section in this Directory listed under M. 

While it's normal to feel a bit low at times, if that feeling persists for a long time or feels really severe, you may be experiencing depression.  

Depression can affect our emotions, thinking, behaviour and our physical health too. 

If you think that you may be affected, try talking about it to someone you can trust - perhaps a teacher, a family member or a counsellor and importantly visit your GP to get their professional opinion and practical support.

In addition to the resources below you may find it helpful to check out other sections of this A-Z Directory such as M for Mindfulness and also areas of our HYCS Self Care Kit for ideas to support mood.

BREATHING SPACE- 0800 83 85 87
Confidential phone and web-based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety.  Also offer a BSL service accessed through their website

CHILDLINE - 0800 1111
Many people can feel low sometimes but if someone is depressed then those low feelings can continue for many months.  Read more about depression and how to cope on the Childline site.

HEALTHTALK - Young People
Find out about the experience of depression and low mood in young people by seeing and hearing young people share their personal stories on film. 

RCP LEAFLET - DEPRESSION IN CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE 
How to recognise depression and what you can do to help yourself or someone else, information from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

STUDENTS AGAINST DEPRESSION
A website by students for students - a website offering advice, information, guidance and resources to those affected by low mood, depression and suicidal thinking.

YOUNG MINDS - Depression Signs & Symptoms
Information about signs and symptoms of depression and what you can do to support yourself or get help.

OTHER
See also in the HYCS' App Zone apps including Moodtools and Moodkit. 

BOOKS, BLOGS AND PODCASTS 
Exploring Depression and Beating the Blues: A CBT Self-Help Guide to Understanding and Coping with Depression in Asperger's Syndrome by Tony Attwood & Michelle Grant
Written by international experts on the Autism Spectrum.  Depression can be common amongst people with ASDs, with  particular features and causes. This book provides a comprehensive review of these aspects, and an effective self-help guide for anyone with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affected by depression.

DIABETES UK 0345 123 2399
Information and advice about all aspects of living with diabetes.

You may also want to look up other useful sections of our A-Z directory for specific disabilities or areas of concern such as under D for Deafness & Hearing Loss, V for Visual Impairment, L for Learning Support, Law, S for School and H for Health Conditions. 

You can also access our HYCS' Accessibility Policy here

ABILITYNET
Supports people of any age, living with any disability or impairment to use technology to achieve their goals at home, at work and in education. They provide specialist advice services, free information resources and  help to build a more accessible digital world.

ACTION ON DISABILITIES
info@aod.org.uk
Action on Disabilities promote the rights of disabled people across all the services we provide: Employment, Youth, Welfare Benefits and Direct Payments. They ensure that disabled people can make informed decisions about their own lives.

ACTIVITY ALLIANCE  01509 227750
The national charity and leading voice for disabled people in sport and activity.

BILD
Champion the human rights of people with disabilities, working to develop the skills and culture necessary to understand people’s needs and improve their quality of life.  Help those supporting people with complex needs – including our members, universities, government departments, local authorities, NHS trusts, service providers and mainstream organisations - to champion rights, ensure excellent support and continually improve practice.

CHALLENGING BEHAVIOUR FOUNDATION
Offer support for those with or supporting those with severe learning disabilities. Offer a range of support resources about challenging behaviour and connected issues.  They define challenging behaviour as 'a range of behaviours which some people with severe learning disabilities may display to get needs met'.
Produce a 'quick read' challenging behaviour guide - download here. 

CHANGING FACES 0300 012 0275
Changing Faces is the UK’s leading charity for people in the UK with a visible difference: a mark, scar or condition that makes them look different.

They provide advice, support and psychosocial services to children, young people and adults.

CHANGING PLACES - Toilet Map
Standard accessible toilets may not meet the needs of those with profound and multiple learning disabilities.  Changing Places' toilets however are different to standard disabled toilets with extra features and more space to meet these needs.

COLOUR BLIND AWARENESS
The Colour Blind Awareness organisation has been founded to raise awareness of colour blindness (colour vision deficiency) and aims to be the first point of reference in the UK for people seeking information on colour blindness.

The organisation provides support for colour blind people, especially colour blind children and their families and teachers.

DEAF ZONE  (Childline) 
If you are Deaf or hard of hearing you can contact Childline with SignVideo which lets you contact a counsellor through a BSL interpreter anytime from Monday – Friday, 8am-8pm. Saturdays, 8am-1pm.

Childline also have a dedicated area 'The Deaf Zone' with advice and support around issues such as bullying, online safety, divorce & separation, discrimination/rights which are available in both English and British Sign Language (BSL).

DECISIONS R US (Hounslow)
Those with a disability who are aged 5-18 and live in the London Borough of Hounslow can apply for a funding grant of up to £250 towards a short break or activity for a young person and their carer.  Conditions apply. Application form link here.  

DWP (Department of Work & Pensions) - Access to Work Scheme
The DWP Access to Work scheme can help you get or stay in work if you have a physical or mental health condition or disability.  The support you get will depend on your needs. Through Access to Work, you can apply for:
- a grant to help pay for practical support with your work
- support with managing your mental health at work
- money to pay for communication support at job interviews

DISABILITY ENERGY SUPPORT SERVICE 
Offer free energy and water advice to disabled people, helping them to manage their energy and water needs.   Simply contact them for a telephone appointment

DISABLED LIVING FOUNDATION 
Disabled Living offer free, impartial information about services for disabled individuals, older people, and those that support them. This includes advice about products and equipment from our specialist Equipz team.

DISABILITY RIGHTS UK 
- Disabled Students' Helpline 0330 995 041
- Personal Budgets' Helpline 0330 995 0404 
personalbudgets@disabilityrightsuk.org

Information, advice and useful factsheets across a wide range of issues for anyone with disabilities.

DISABLED STUDENTS' ALLOWANCE (DSA)
Government website explaining how you can get financial help via the DSA if you're a student with a learning difficulty, health problem or disability.  Check eligibility and how to apply here.

DOWNS SYNDROME ASSOCIATION -  0333 1212 300
Help and useful information for anyone with or supporting someone with Downs Syndrome.

EDS (EHLERS-DANLOSS) SUPPORT UK
Helpline 0800 9078518
The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of thirteen individual genetic conditions, all of which affect the body’s connective tissue.  Find out information, support and advice for those affected. 
- EDS School Toolkit Download, to help those with EDS navigate school.

EQUALITY ADVISORY SUPPORT SERVICE - 0808 800 0082
Textphone: 0808 800 0084
Assists individuals on issues relating to equality and human rights, across England, Scotland and Wales. 
Webcam portal for BSL users via the Royal Association for Deaf people.

FOUNDATION FOR PEOPLE WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES 
Help to make things better for people with learning disabilities in the UK and sometimes overseas.

GOV UK - When a Mental Health Condition Becomes A Disability

'A mental health condition is considered a disability if it has a long-term effect on your normal day-to-day activity. This is defined under the Equality Act 2010.

Your condition is ‘long term’ if it lasts, or is likely to last, 12 months.

‘Normal day-to-day activity’ is defined as something you do regularly in a normal day. This includes things like using a computer, working set times or interacting with people.

If your mental health condition means you are disabled you can get support at work from your employer.'

HIDDEN DISABILITIES - 'Sunflower Scheme'
As not all disabilities are visible or obvious, including autism, chronic pain, anxiety, visual or hearing impairment,  it can be difficult for others to recognise, acknowledge or understand the challenges you face.  Many businesses have signed up to the scheme and wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a discrete way to indicate that you may need additional support, help or a little more time.

IPSEA
If you require information or advice regarding any educational issue that is the result of a child’s special educational needs or disability (SEND), please either book an appointment online to speak with one of their volunteers or consult the website which has a wealth of legal advice and resources.

LOOK UK
Look aims to support young visually impaired people and their families to thrive. They do this through mentoring, transformational events, youth forums and parent support groups.  They can also link to other charities and organisations who can help you access the support you need.  If you’re aged 11-29 and at school, university/college or looking for work, they have a mentor ready to help you achieve your potential. Sign up to be matched to a mentor, and start chatting about anything relating to your visual impairment.

NATIONAL RAILWAYS - PASSENGER ASSIST
Passenger Assist allows you to request an assistance booking in advance. Any train company can organise assistance for your entire journey, even if you are travelling on multiple services.  Visit the websit (link above) or download the Passenger Assist app from App Store or Google Play.

Passenger Assist includes:

  • offering a helping hand to navigate the station

  • support when boarding the train 

  • meeting you from your train and taking you to your next train or the exit

  • arranging a ramp on or off your train

  • assistance relating to a non-visible impairment

  • carrying your bag(s) – up to 3 items of luggage as per the National Rail Conditions of Travel (PDF, 1.1MB)

  • getting an Assistance Dog Under Seat card



REGARD
Regard is a national organisation of LGBTQ individuals who self-identify as disabled. Regard follows the Social Model of Disability - a way of thinking about disability that says it is society that needs to change by removing the barriers that deny inclusion and equal rights.

Regard provide information, advice and support to LGBT disabled people and also 
raise awareness and campaign on issues affecting disabled LGBT people.

RELAY UK
Relay is a free to use national relay service (all you pay are your normal call charges) helping anyone with hearing loss or speech impairment to communicate over the phone using a live relay assistant which will type what the caller is saying so you can read responses if you can't hear or reads your written responses to the caller if you are speech impaired.  This service has replaced Next Generation Text.  
App available - visit the HYCS App Zone or follow this link to Relay UK website.

RNIB (Royal National Institute for the Blind) 0203 123 9999 - 8am - 8pm weekdays, 9pm - 1pm Weekends
To call via Alexa - Say “Alexa, call RNIB Helpline” to an Alexa-enabled device.  Follow the link here: read more about this Alexa service.

RNIB is a leading UK sight loss charity and the largest community of blind and partially-sighted people.  Advice and support around sight loss.

RNID (previously Action on Hearing Loss)
0808 808 0123, textphone 0808 808 9000
The RNID is the UK’s leading charity supporting people with hearing loss, deafness and tinnitus. Advice and support including information line, tinnitus helplines and factsheets.

RSBC (Royal Society for Blind Children)
The Royal Society for Blind Children offers a range of services including emotional support and practical advice for families, opportunities for children and young people to build confidence and skills through activities, and a specialist further education college.

SCHOOL EXCLUSION PROJECT 
Provide free advocacy to help parents appeal against their child’s permanent exclusion in England. Specialise in disability discrimination and cases where the child has special educational needs. 

SCOPE 0808 800 3333
helpline@scope.org.uk
The disability equality charity in England and Wales who can provide practical information and emotional support when it's most needed on all aspects of living with disability including benefits, jobs and careers, legal advice and debt. 

SENDIASS
National helpline:
0808 808 3555
For Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) issues, you can contact SENDIASS to get impartial and confidential advice, covering educational matters, social care and health entitlements, information and support.
Local Support- Hounslow Borough Contact:
020 8583 2607 
Email  SENDIASS@hounslow.gov.uk 

SHINE (Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus Information Networking Equality)
Specialist advice and support for spina bifida and hydrocephalus across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

SIBS UK
An organisation for brothers and sisters of disabled children and adults. 

SIGHT ADVICE FAQ
The Sight Advice FAQ answers questions about living with sight loss, eye health or being newly diagnosed with a sight condition. This includes those who are supporting people through their sight loss journey, including parents, partners, carers and friends.

SIGHTLINE DIRECTORY (RNIB)
The RNIB's directory for services aimed at helping blind or partially sighted people.

SIGNHEALTH 020 3947 2600
SMS: 07966 976 749
Signhealth is a charity dedicated to making sure deaf people get the same sort of access as hearing people to healthcare and health information.

You can contact SignHealth in BSL, using our online interpreting service which is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

BSL calls can be made from desktop computers, laptops, tablets, or smartphones. They just need to have a good internet connection and a webcam or built in camera. Step by step details on the Signhealth website here.

STONEWALL  - Disabled and Neurodivergent LGBTQ+ Support | Stonewall
A range of resources and campaigning ideas to support the LGBTQ+ community including this specific support tool for individuals who are neurodivergent or disabled.

VICTA
VICTA is a national charity that provides support to children and young adults from 0 to 29 who are blind or partially-sighted and their families. VICTA believes that everyone has the right to an independent and fulfilling life. VICTA’s support, advice, grants and activities for different age groups enable young people and their families to build skills, develop confidence and help each other toward a more positive future.

WE ARE UNDEFEATABLE 
"We Are Undefeatable" is a movement supporting people with a range of long term health conditions.  When you’re managing a health condition, being active is about finding what works for you which can include ways to move that many people don’t realise count. How you feel can change from day-to-day, everybody’s situation is unique, and moving more when you can is just as important as accepting when you can’t.  

WEB ACCESSIBILITY INITIATIVE
Information about internet accessibility including resources and step-by-step guides, to help you customize your particular web browser and computer setup.

WEST LONDON ALLIANCE - West London Guide to Supported Internships
Click on the image below to go to the West London Alliance's downloadable guide to supported internships for 2023 which are open to applicants with moderate learning disabilities (MLD) who are aged between 18 and 24 on 31 August 2023 (some take applicants at 16) and who are keen to be offered paid employment (not necessarily at the host business or organisation) at the end of the programme.

'Supported Internships are designed to
develop transferable skills, knowledge
and attitudes in preparation for paid
employment. Through training and direct
work experience young people will develop
employability skills, self-confidence, job-specific skills and Maths, English and ICT
skills whilst working alongside employees in a real employment setting'.

YOU GOV:
- Apply for or renew a Blue Badge

Check your eligibility and apply for a Blue Badge. You can also use this service to reapply for a Blue Badge.  You can apply for yourself, someone else or an organisation.

- Apply for  Disabled Person's Bus Pass

You may also find it helpful to look at other sections of this A-Z Directory including under E for Equality, J for Jobs, L for Law, and H for Hate Crime.

Discrimination can be defined as any form of unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people who live with a 'protected characteristic'.  The Equality Act 2010 identifies 9 of these protected characteristics:

- age

- disability

- gender reassignment

- marriage or civil partnership

- pregnancy or maternity

- race

- religion or belief

- sex

- sexual orientation.

Download a guide here to legal definitions of discrimination and unlawful behaviour produced by the Equality and Human Rights Commission

ACAS - 0300 123 1100
Acas is an independent public body that receives funding from the government.

They offer a helpline and resources and provide free and impartial advice to employers, employees and their representatives on employment rights, best practice and policies, resolving workplace conflict.

When parents decide to separate or divorce, it can be a very unsettling and difficult time.  It's very common for children and young people to feel they are in some way to blame but it isn't your fault.   It might feel like you're on a rollercoaster of emotions - shock, anger, sadness, relief and insecurity.  However you're feeling, reach out for help if you are finding things difficult: 

CHILDLINE 0800 1111 
Link to the national children's charity Childline with advice on coping with divorce and separation and common questions that young people have.

CAFCASS  
Gives information on the interests of children involved in family proceedings. If your parents decide to go to court in a divorce proceeding, CAFCASS may get involved to support you - find out more about: CAFCASS' services

THE MIX 0800 808 4994
Advice for young people about coping with parental divorce and separation.  Offer a helpline, messenger service and online chat support options/

“At any given moment you have the power to say this is not how the story is going to end.” ― Christine Mason Miller 

Emergency Help
Call 999 if you are in imminent danger or have been physically hurt and need the support of emergency services.  

If you are too scared to speak or make a noise, the 999 Silent Solution system which enables a 999 mobile caller to press 55 when prompted to inform police they are in a genuine emergency.

Other Help - National & Local
Many of the organisations below offer information and support including helplines, some on a 24 hour basis. 

AANCHAL 0800 0124 924
24/7 support for women in crisis, needing advice or affected by domestic abuse. Free and confidential support available in a variety of languages including English, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, Gujarati, Tamil, Bengali and Eastern European languages.

Aanchal have 33+ years experience in supporting women affected by domestic abuse. Whatever your background, language or cultural experience we understand the impact it has on people.

ASK FOR ANI Campaign 

'Ask for ANI' (Action Needed Immediately) is a domestic abuse codeword scheme aims to help victims access emergency support from the safety of their local pharmacy - including Boots, LLoyds, Morrisons and many other local pharmacies.  When a victim uses the codeword ANI in the pharmacy, a member of staff will take the victim to a private room (‘Safe Space’) where they can help them call the police, domestic abuse helpline or a family member, friend or perhaps even a solicitor.

BRIGHT SKY APP/
BRIGHT SKY WEBSITE 


Bright Sky is a free mobile app and website for anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or who is worried about someone else. Please only download the app if it is safe for you to do so and if you are sure that your phone isn’t being monitored. 

Launched in partnership with Vodafone, the app includes questionnaires to assess the safety of a relationship, plus a section on dispelling myths around domestic and sexual abuse. The website is focused on how to spot the signs of domestic abuse, advice on how to support someone you have concerns for, and ways to find help.

Both have access to a unique UK-wide directory of specialist domestic abuse support services with contact details, and nationwide helplines that are available 24/7.

CHILDLINE - Advice on Domestic Abuse
"It might not always be obvious if what's happening at home is domestic abuse. But if somebody in your family uses bullying or violence to get another adult to do what they want, that's domestic abuse." Childline explain what it is, its impact, how to cope and making a safety place.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DISCLOSURE SERVICE
The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme(DVDS), also known as “Clare’s Law”, enables the police to disclose information to a victim or potential victim of domestic abuse about their partner’s or ex-partner’s previous abusive or violent offending.

GOV UK - Domestic Abuse Information sheet

FLOWS – Finding Legal Options for Women Survivors
A legal service delivered by the Family Team of RCJ Advice, in partnership with Rights of Women. They provide advice about the legal options available. Please contact them if you are a front line worker or if you are a domestic abuse survivor.

FORWARD (Foundation for Womens Health Research & Development)
The leading African-led organisation working to end violence against women and girls providing information and support on VAWG (violence against women & girls) such as female genital mutilation, child marriage and more.

GALOP
• National Helpline
- 0800 999 5428
London Helpline 020 7704 2040
Galop is the LGBT+ anti-violence charity, if you've experienced hate crime, sexual violence or domestic abuse.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC ABUSE  0808 196 8845 
The Support Line is run in partnership between Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA) and Money Advice Plus. It offers specialist advice to people experiencing domestic abuse who are in financial difficulty. 

It aims to empower people who have experienced or are experiencing abuse to regain control of their finances. Advisors on the Line will always take your safety and well-being into account when giving advice.

THE HIDEOUT
A website created by Women’s Aid for children and young people to help them to understand domestic abuse and how to take positive action if it's happening to them.

IMKAAN
info@imkaan.org.uk
Imkaan provides a collective voice for the Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) ending violence against women and girls sector.
Imkaan do not offer crisis support services but advocate and train and provide resources and links to access a range of BME support information.

JEWISH WOMEN'S AID 
- JWA Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 801 0500
- JWA Sexual Violence Helpline: 0808 801 0656
Jewish Women's Aid is the only specialist organisation in the UK supporting Jewish women and children affected by domestic abuse & sexual violence.

MANKIND 01823 334244
Information, support and signposting including a confidential helpline, for male victims of domestic abuse and domestic violence across the UK. Also support friends, family, neighbours, work colleagues and employers.

MEWso (Middle Eastern Women's Society and Organisation)
MEWSo is a women's charity run by and for women from ethnic minority communities. The majority of the communities we serve are from Middle Eastern, North African and Asian backgrounds.  Founded in 2010 by 
Halaleh Taheri after her experiences as a refugee fleeing war and revolution in the Middle East. The aim of this charity is to defend and protect women from violence both at home and in the wider community, help them rebuild their lives through tailored advice, guidance and support, and campaign for their equality and human rights to be respected.

NATIONAL DOMESTIC ABUSE HELPLINE - 24 hour(Refuge) 0808 2000 247
If you are seeking support, call the Helpline. You can also contact the Helpline – in confidence via a for on the website.In an emergency, call 999.

Your message will go to Refuge’s secure inbox, which only our expert Helpline team can access.

ONE IN FOUR
One in Four specialise in supporting childhood survivors and current survivors of sexual violence, domestic violence, abuse and trauma and raising awareness of this challenging issue.  They provide counselling, advocacy, resources (link here) and a helpline.

ROYAL COURTS OF JUSTICE ADVICE SERVICE (RCJ)
Provides free legal advice on
domestic abuse and family matters through their websites and through helplines.  Sites include:

- FLOWS (Finding Legal Options for Women Survivors) which gives advice to women affected
by domestic abuse and those working to support them at .
uk.

- The RCJ Advice Family Service provides advice to anyone affected by domestic abuse and on any family law issues.

REFUGE - 0808 2000 247 (24 hour helpline)
Live chat option available
Information and advice for women and girls concerned about their partner’s behaviour.

REFUGE TECH SAFETY WEBSITE - Tech Abuse & Advocacy Service
Avast (a global leader in digital security and privacy) and national domestic abuse charity Refuge have joined forces to help combat the growing threat of domestic abuse enabled by technology. Modern technology has given perpetrators new ways to stalk, isolate and control women using the easily access apps and devices.

REFUGE DIGITAL BREAK UP TOOL 
This interactive tool is designed to provide awareness and understanding of the various digital platforms a partner might have access to, whether it’s social media accounts, online banking, or live location through apps such as Uber and Strava. The tool also provides women with the necessary knowledge to help them secure these digital platforms against potential tech abuse from a partner or ex-partner.

RESPECT - Phoneline 0808 802 4040
Confidential and anonymous helpline offering advice, information and support for anyone concerned about their violence and/or abuse towards a partner or ex-partner.

RESPECT  - Mens Advice Line 0808 80 10 3278 or info@mensadviceline.org.uk
Confidential helpline and support for male victims of domestic abuse and those supporting them. Offer advice and emotional support to men who experience abuse, and signpost to other vital services that help keep them and their children safe.

RIGHTS OF WOMEN
Confidential legal advice on domestic and sexual violence. 

SAFELINE
Safeline is a specialist sexual violence and abuse charity supporting those affected by it.  In addition to their Warwickshire helpline they offer information and also a national service for male survivors:

SAFELINE - NATIONAL MALE SURVIVORS' HELPLINE
0808 800 5005
Provide dedicated services for male survivors of sexual violence for both adults and children and for those who support them living in England and Wales. 

Safeline acknowledge gender identity can be fluid for some individuals and when using the term ‘male’ this includes cisgender (cis), transgender (trans) and non-binary identities.

SIGNHEALTH DOMESTIC ABUSE TEAM TEXT LINE
Text 07800 003421
da@signhealth.org.uk
Signhealth's domestic abuse service (previously known as DeafHope) is a unique, Deaf-led service for Deaf people who have or are experiencing domestic abuse. The service is the first and only one of its kind in the UK.   They offer a range of accessible support and information including videos in BSL

SOUTHALL BLACK SISTERS 0208 571 9595 Emergency support - link here.
A group championing women’s human rights in the UK, created to meet the needs of Black (Asian and African-Caribbean) women. Challenge and highlight all forms of gender related violence against women, empowering them to gain more control over their lives. 

Offer advice/advocacy/resources centre in West London, working in several community languages, especially South Asian languages.  Open to any woman who needs emergency help.

SURVIVING ECONOMIC ABUSE 
SEA is the only UK charity dedicated to raising awareness of and transforming responses to economic abuse.

Domestic abuse takes many forms. Abusers may restrict, exploit and sabotage their partner’s access to money and other resources, such as food, clothing, transportation and a place to live. This is economic abuse, and it is designed to limit someone’s freedom.  It is commonly experienced within a pattern of behaviour known as coercive control.   Visit their Tools to Thrive section here or 

UK SAYS NO MORE
Charity that works to end domestic abuse and sexual violence. UK Says No More are working with Boots, Morrisons pharmacies, Superdrug pharmacies, Well pharmacies, independent pharmacies, HSBC and TSB banks across the UK to provide Safe Spaces in their consultation rooms for people experiencing domestic abuse. Run the Ask for ANI Campaign.

The Ask for ANI (Action Needed Immediately) domestic abuse codeword scheme aims to help victims access emergency support from the safety of their local pharmacy.  When a victim uses the codeword ANI in the pharmacy, a member of staff will take the victim to a private room (‘Safe Space’) where they can help them call the police, domestic abuse helpline or a family member, friend or perhaps even a solicitor.

VICTIM SUPPORT 0808 16 89 1111
Emotional and practical support for anyone affected by a crime regardless of whether the crime has been reported to the police.  Free, confidential support 24/7, not only for those who experience it directly, but also their friends, family and any other people involved. It doesn’t matter when the crime took place – you can get our support at any time, and for however long you need us.

WOMENS' AID
Offers practical support and information for women experiencing domestic violence via the Survivor's Handbook and local domestic violence services.  Support available through live web chat or email. 

WOMENS' AID - Guide to Controlling Behaviour In Relationships
If as a parent you are concerned that your child may be in an unhealthy, controlling relationship simply download this guide.  Advice about healthy relationships, information and support for when things go wrong.

WOMEN & GIRLS NETWORK (West London) 0808 801 0660 advice@wgn.org.uk
The Young Women's Service works to create safe and confidential spaces to gain support - if you are experiencing or are at risk of experiencing any form of violence against women and girls (VAWG), and live, work or study in West London, contact WGN to get support. 

HOUNSLOW COUNCIL: Domestic Violence support leaflet
Originally created for anyone struggling during the pandemic.

YOU GOV
-
Driving Test Information
Official site with everything you need to know about booking and taking a test.
- Highway Code
- Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs booklet
- Drink Driving & The Law
- Drugs Driving the Law
Legal guidelines for driving and use of drugs.

AA
- Overcoming Driving Test Nerves
Ideas to help you calm those driving test nerves.
- Practical Tips for Test Day

RAC:
- 15 Driving Test Tips

Tips to help you manage nerves and pass first time.

FRANK 0800 776600 or text phone for hard of hearing to 0800 917 8765
frank@talktofrank.com
'Honest information about drugs' - Talk to Frank for facts, support and confidential advice on drugs and alcohol.

ADFAM 020 7553 7640
Support for people with a family member who takes drugs or alcohol, helping to find local support groups.

DRUGFAM 0300 888 3853
Drugfam supports everyone  affected by or bereaved from another person’s harmful use of alcohol, drugs, substances, or gambling including family, friends and colleagues.

EDAS UK
Dorset based charity offering local services in that area - website offers information across a wide range of topics including a Detox Manual (link here).

UK DETOX 0800 19 33  776
UK Detox are here to ensure yourself or a loved one are supported fully throughout the rehabilitation process. Whether you are continuing to overcome your drug or alcohol addiction, or seeking guidance post relapse we are here to guide you throughout the entire process.

WITH YOU
Online Chat with Help team - link here
Offer free, confidential support with alcohol, drugs or mental health - help for you, or if you are worried about someone else. Tips to help you cut down or stop drinking or using drugs (or just stay safe and healthy).

You may also find it useful to look at other resources in the A-Z Directory including under L for Learning Support. 

BRITISH DYSLEXIA ASSOCIATION 
Information and advice for all aspects of Dyslexia and related conditions.

BRITISH DYSLEXIA FOUNDATION 
Advice about all aspects of Dyslexia with sections for children, adults, educators and employers.

DYSLEXIA SpLD TRUST
Contact via webform.  A collaboration of voluntary and community organisations with funding from the Department for Education to provide reliable information to parents, teachers, schools and the wider sector. It Acts as the important communication channel between government, leading dyslexia organisations, parents, schools, colleges, teachers and the sector.

MADE BY DYSLEXIA
Information and resources for parents, young people and teachers.  This is a global charity, led by successful dyslexics whose purpose is to help the world to understand, value and support dyslexia.

READEASY (18+ only)
Read Easy will help any adult (18+) who either can’t read or who lacks confidence with reading, for whatever reason. If you are dyslexic, their Turning Pages manuals work well for people with dyslexia. And it’s absolutely free!

BOOKS, BLOGS, VLOGS, PODCASTS & VIDEOS
- Jay Blades - Learning to Read at 51, BBC 1
Inspiring BBC documentary. 

- Jay Blade's Tips on Getting Started with Learning to Read 

You may also find it useful to look at other resources in the A-Z Directory including under L for Learning Support

DYSPRAXIA FOUNDATION 01462 454986
Support including a helpline offering help and advice to people with dyspraxia, parents, carers, and families about or on the subject of dyspraxia.

Dyspraxia, is a form of developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is a common disorder affecting fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults.

You may also find it useful to look at other resources in the A-Z Directory including under L for Learning Support

BRITISH DYSLEXIA ASSOCIATION 
Information about dyscalculia and other specific learning difficulties.

DYSLEXIA UK
Information about specific learning difficulties including dyscalculia.

UNDERSTOOD
Information about signs and symptoms of dyscalculia.

Terms & Conditions - the information provided here is for your convenience and information; it does not imply HYCS' endorsement of these third party organisations or their content nor is it intended to replace advice from trained professionals. Please see our full terms & conditions here. 

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