Welcome to the Self Help Hub's guide to supporting services & resources - listed under this section F & G are resources supporting the following subject areas: Faith, FGM, Fertility, Festivals, First Aid, Flashbacks, Forced Marriage, Forgiveness, Friends, Gambling, Gangs, Gender Identity visiting your GP, Grief, and GRT (Gypsy, Roma & Traveller) Communities, .
B-EAT - RAMADAN & EATING DISORDERS GUIDE
A guide by Dr Omara Naseem to help those with an eating disorder who are observing Ramadan.
BE HEADSTRONG
Mental health support by Headstrong which is a project led by Youthscape and supported by the Mind and Soul Foundation.
CHANA
Chana supports people in the Jewish community who may feel isolated and need medical information and support to help them deal with the challenge of infertility.
DEAF ETHNIC WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION
DEWA provides a range of support and empowers Minority Ethnic Deaf women to have choice and control, be active and be successful in all aspects of their lives without compromising their identity.
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."
DIVERSE CHURCH
Support for LGBT people who are committed Christians.
FAITH MATTERS
Aims to enable faith communities to reduce conflict using conflict resolution tools, working on integration, cohesion, hate crime and countering extremism projects.
Instrumental in developing new and innovative projects that bring faith communities together and in strengthening faith institutions. This has also involved strengthening the capacity of faith leadership, working on developing shared values that act as a glue between communities and in developing voices against extremism and extremist rhetoric.
HIDAYAH
The Leading Queer Muslim charity. Hidayah (هداية) means guidance.
Through their work, they support and serve queer Muslims in the UK, the US and across the world.
Promote social justice and education about our community to counter discrimination, prejudice and injustice.
JEWISH CARE HELPLINE
0800 652 9249 or 020 3096 2875
Jewish Care are the largest provider of health and social care services for the Jewish community in the UK. The helpline has trained volunteers who will listen to your worries or concerns however big or small, be they social, financial, religious or personal. This free service is confidential, anonymous, non-advisory and without judgement.
KESHET UK
Keshet UK's mission is to ensure that Jewish LGBT+ people and their families are included throughout Jewish life in the UK. Jewish LGBT+ people exist in all walks of life. They aspire to work with all UK Jewish communities, including Liberal, Masorti, Orthodox and Reform, cross-communal and non-denominational organisations. They work with Jewish schools, youth and young adult organisations, synagogues, and wider community organisations to become more inclusive of LGBT+ people through education and training.
MUSLIM YOUTH HELPLINE
0808 808 2000
An award winning registered charity which provides faith and culturally sensitive, confidential services to Muslim youth in the UK. The helpline service is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year including Bank Holidays and Eid.
MUSLIM COMMUNITY HELPLINE
0208 904 8193 or 0208 908 6715
Confidential support for any members of the Muslim Community.
ONE BODY ONE FAITH
One Body One Faith was founded in 1976 as the Gay (later Lesbian and Gay) Christian Movement to offer support, information and advocacy.
QUEST
Support for LGBT individuals in the Catholic community.
TELL MAMA 0800 456 1226
Support victims of anti-Muslim hatred and record and provide an accurate picture of anti-Muslim hatred and the risk to Muslim communities in the UK. Resources and reports.
TRUE VISION - Report It
Information on religion-based hate crime and how to report it.
YOUNG MINDS - Mental Health Support for Young Muslims
Faith-friendly information and advice, 'shaped by the voices of young Muslims' and created in partnership with Muslim Youth Helpline.
CHILDLINE - 0800 1111
24/7 confidential support for young people to age 18 about anything that's worrying you. Call, chat online or email. Article about coping with faith-based bullying here.
BOOKS, BLOGS, VLOGS, VIDEOS AND MORE:
- The Book of Joy - Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu
This bestselling book, now made into a film, features Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama have been friends for many, many years. Between them, they have endured exile, violence and oppression. And in the face of these hardships, they have continued to radiate compassion, humour and above all, joy.
"...failure has taught me lessons I would never otherwise have understood. I have evolved more as a result of things going wrong than when everything seemed to be going right. Out of crisis, has come clarity and sometimes even catharsis..."- Elizabeth Day.
"I've not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work" - Thomas Edison, inventor of the light bulb
F A I L - First Attempt In Learning
VIDEOS, BLOGS, VLOGS AND MORE
BOOK RECOMMENDATION:
How to Fail: Everything I've Learned by Things Going Wrong - Elizabeth Day
This is a book for anyone who has ever failed. Which means it's a book for everyone.
What is FGM/C?
FGM or FGM/C refers to Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting, all procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs, involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons.
FGM is defined by the United Nations Population Fund as child abuse.
Law & FGM/C
It is illegal in the UK and you can get up to 14 years in prison for carrying out FGM or helping it to take place. It is illegal to perform or assist in the performance of FGM/C in the UK (including assisting a girl to perform FGM on herself) or to assist from the UK someone outside of the UK to perform FGM on a UK national or permanent resident.
Terms for FGM
It is sometimes referred to by other names such as female circumcision, cutting, sunna, gudniin, tahur, l'excision, khitan and more - the National Centre for FGM has produced a full list of terms which you may find helpful (link to resources here).
GETTING HELP:
NSPCC FGM Helpline - 0800 028 3550
fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk
Helpline and information for anyone who is worried about FGM for themselves or others who may be at risk.
POLICE - 999 or NHS 111
If you or someone you know is at immediate risk of FGM then please call the Police on 999.
If it is not an emergency you can also call the Police on 111 for advice.
DAHLIA PROJECT - 18+
Provide free to access therapeutic support groups and individual counselling for women who have undergone FGM. Support is tailored to the needs of the women themselves, additional support and advocacy services is provided for their wider needs and wellbeing.
FORWARD - 0208 960 4000 ext 1 or 07834 168 141
Forward are the leading African women-led organisation working to end violence against women and girls. Contact Forward for information, advice and one-to-one support
UK GOVERNMENT SUPPORT - Home Office
FGMenquiries@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk
- FCO
If you are already overseas and need help and advice, call the FCO (Foreign & Commonwealth Office) on +44 (0) 207 008 1500.
-British Embassy, Commission or Consulate
If you have been taken abroad you can also contact the local British Embassy,Commission or Consulate.
IKWRO (Iranian & Kurdish Women's Rights Organisation)
0207 920 6460.
IKWRO’s mission is to protect Middle Eastern and Afghan women and girls who are at risk of ‘honour’ based violence, forced marriage, child marriage, female genital mutilation and domestic violence and to promote their rights.
They provide direct services for women and girls, including advocacy, training and counselling.
NHS -National FGM Support Clinics - Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) for aged 18+
National FGM Support Clinics (NFGMSCs) are community-based clinics that offer a range of support services for women with female genital mutilation (FGM). This service is available to women aged 18 or older who are not pregnant when they seek support.
This section identifies services supporting anyone who may have concerns about fertility or their ability to conceive. You may also find it helpful to look at other sections in this directory such as Adoption or Pregnancy support.
ALL ABOUT FERTILITY
Supportive insights about fertility and the causes of infertility.
BRITISH INFERTILITY COUNSELLING
Charity offering professional infertility counselling, recognised by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and the British Fertility Society in the UK. Includes a 'find a counsellor' directory of specialist counsellors in this field - link click here.
CHANA
Chana supports people in the Jewish community who may feel isolated and need medical information and support to help them deal with the challenge of infertility.
ENDOMETRIOSIS UK
Support and information for anyone impacted by endometriosis.
FERTILITY NETWORK UK 01424 732361
This leading UK national charity provides information, support and advice for anyone who has or has had fertility problems. Their support line is manned by former fertility nurses with a wealth of experience. They can help not only with minor medical questions but also advice and support.
HUMAN FERTILISATION & EMBRYOLOGY AUTHORITY
Get clear, impartial information on the different types of fertility treatments available and find out about costs and funding, the risks of treatment, using a donor and having treatment abroad.
Watch their You Tube video here (link here) about where to get emotional support if undergoing fertility treatment.
SEEN - Pregnancy Crisis Centre
020 8892 8483 or text 07776 482350
A free and confidential service for women who are facing an unintended pregnancy or who are dealing with a pregnancy loss (whether through termination, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, preterm loss or stillbirth). They are committed to offering professional standards of non-directive care to support you.
VERITY
A UK charity for women who are affected by polycystic ovary disease.
FESTIVAL SAFE
Whether you’re a first-timer or a hardened veteran, there is something on Festival Safe for everyone. From tent buying tips, kit lists, wellbeing, coping with the toilets and much more, you’ll find lots of useful information to make yours a festival to remember - for all the right reasons!
RED CROSS - Heat Advice
When you're spending a lot of time in the great outdoors, important to remember safety advice when coping with heatwaves and the sun.
- Download the Heatwave Checklist here.
- Download First Aid Advice for Heatstrokes here:
NHS - Sunburn Advice
The NHS say - 'Sunburn is hot and sore skin caused by too much sun. It may flake and peel after a few days. You can treat it yourself. It usually gets better within 7 days'. However remember that severe sunburn can lead to heatstroke and heat exhaustion which can be serious. Please seek medical advice if so.
NHS - Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion
The NHS say 'Heat exhaustion is not usually serious if you can cool down within 30 minutes. If it turns into heatstroke, it needs to be treated as an emergency'.
Please note: this information is not meant to replace seeking medical advice or treatment. Please also note that there is NO safe or First Aid treatment for overdose - if you have taken an overdose, please seek medical advice.
LIFESAVER by RESUSCITATION COUNCIL UK
(Website and App). Learn CPR and lifesaving skills through Lifesaver who produce a range of interactive films and a free app to help you learn skills such as CPR to cope with crisis situations such as cardiac arrest and choking. Free app available for download for both android and Apple devices.
NHS - First Aid Information
Link here to information about basic first aid.
NHS - Anaphalaxis Treatment
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. It is a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction to a trigger such as an allergy.
It is useful to be aware of how to respond - read about symptoms, response protocols and also familiarise yourself with using the main types of auto-injector devices in case of emergency.
SELF INJURY SUPPORT 0808 800 8088 or text 07537 432444
Free, confidential, non-judgemental support around self-injury and related issues for women of any age or background affected by self-injury, whether their own or that of a friend or family member.
Links to the SIS First Aid support information here : SIS First Aid | Self Injury Support.
ST JOHN'S AMBULANCE FIRST AID APP
Available for free download for Apple or Android. This app includes the latest first aid advice and protocols for dealing with emergency situations. It is simple to follow with illustrated guides and voiced instructions.
The app doesn’t replace the benefits of learning first aid on a St John Ambulance course, nor is it as in depth as a full first aid manual.
WHAT 3 WORDS
The what3words app makes it easy to find, share and save precise locations for anywhere in the world. The app has divided the world into 3m squares and given each square a unique combination of three words. what3words addresses are easy to say and share, and as accurate as GPS coordinates.
You may also find it helpful to check out other sections in this website including: Anxiety and Trauma.
CHILDLINE - PTSD & Flashbacks
Practical tips to support you if your thoughts or memories are making you feel unsafe.
SURVIVORS' TRUST
08088 010818
- Survivors' Trust Grounding Techniques Booklet (Download)
Ideas on how to cope with flashbacks and distress for survivors.
In the UK, forced marriage is against the law and, if you are being made to get married to someone that you don't want to, you have a right to say no. Here are some organisations who can help you:
POLICE 999
If you are in immediate danger please call the police on 999
FORWARD
0208 960 4000 ext 1 or mobile 07834 168 141
Forward is the leading African women-led organisation working to end violence against women and girls. Contact Forward for information, advice and one-to-one support.
FORCED MARRIAGE UNIT (FMU) 020 7008 0151
From overseas: +44 (0)20 7008 0151
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Out of hours: 020 7008 1500 (ask for the Global Response Centre)
fmu@fco.gov.uk
You can contact the FMU if you’re trying to stop a forced marriage or if you need help leaving a marriage you’ve been forced into.
FORCED MARRIAGE - A Survivor's Handbook
Everyone has the right to choose whether to marry, whom they marry and when they marry. This free, downloadable handbook provides practical support and information for anyone who:
• is at risk of a forced marriage
• has experienced a forced marriage
• has escaped from a forced marriage
This includes those returning to the UK from overseas.
IKWRO (Iranian & Kurdish Womens Rights Organisation)
0207 920 6460
IKWRO’s mission is to protect Middle Eastern and Afghan women and girls who are at risk of ‘honour’ based violence, forced marriage, child marriage, female genital mutilation and domestic violence and to promote their rights.
They provide direct services for women and girls, including advocacy, training and counselling.
KARMA NIRVANA
UK Helpline: 0800 5999 247
Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm.
If you are in immediate danger call 999
info@karmanirvana.org.uk
If you are being pressured to get married against your will or fear to bring shame or dishonour on your family, have been emotionally or physically abused or fear being disowned you can talk in confidence to Karma Nirvana.
"Forgiveness is a gift. It loses its power as a gift if we make it a duty".
Quote - John Braithwaite - pioneer in restorative justice
When we've been hurt or seen others hurt by something that has happened it's natural to feel a range of emotions - from anger and sadness to fear, numbness or vulnerability.
Sometimes the hardest person to forgive is ourselves.
Finding forgiveness can feel really hard and may not feel right for you - but remember that forgiveness is not the same as making excuses for or condoning bad behaviour nor does it mean allowing abuse to continue or remaining inactive against it.
Choosing forgiveness or finding moments of forgiveness can be helpful as a powerful way to support yourself - by putting you back in control. It's one way to break the vicious cycle of revenge where those hurt then do the hurting; it may allow you to move on rather than being forever defined by that chapter in your story by what has happened, it may inspire you to help others who may be feeling as you have done.
"Stay together friends
Don't scatter and sleep
Our Friendship is made
Of being awake".
Poem by Rumi.
Supporting A Friend
We may want to 'be there' for our friends but sometimes it can be hard to know how best to support them - you may be unsure what to say for the best, how to help or where to get help. You may be feeling overwhelmed or worried.
Some general tips that can be helpful to are to:
1. Stay calm
2. Listen - try not to judge.
3. Check - what help do they want from you? Be aware of what you can deal with, don't take on more than you can manage.
4. Support options - If it feels right, you can also encourage them to think of support options including self help ideas or professional help, if appropriate, such as a GP, teacher, counsellor or helping organisation. You may even want to offer to go with them when they do so, to give them support.
5. Seek help if you are worried for their safety - if you think they might be at risk or are unsafe its important to tell a trusted adult - perhaps a teacher, parent or other trusted adult professional.
6. Take care of yourself - if you find that you are struggling and their difficulties are making you feel sad, overwhelmed or really worried please make sure you seek support for yourself!
Additional Sources of Help:
The following organisations are just some of those who can provide advice on how best to support a friend going through difficulties:
CHILDLINE
- Helping a Friend section
- Top Tips for Making Friends
EPIC FRIENDS
A site about helping you to help friends who might be struggling to cope emotionally
INTERNET MATTERS
'Pressure to be Perfect' toolkit including downloadable teens guide:
- How to Support a Friend who is struggling online.
MIND
Information for 11-18 year olds about how to support a friend who is struggling with the way they're feeling including guides such as:
- How to support a friend
- Video: How To Support A Friend With Their Mental Health
STUDENT MINDS
- Download Look After Your Mate guide here. Friendship can play a key role in helping someone live with or recover from any difficulties they are facing. But it can be hard to know what to say when a mate is struggling. This guide will support you to look out for your mates, from starting a conversation to navigating the student journey...
YOUNG MINDS
A website offering information on many aspects of young peoples' mental health and wellbeing. Information and articles such as:
- Friendships (difficulties, healthy and unhealthy friendships and more)
- Supporting A Friend:#ItsNotAllOnYou
Being a good friend is a lovely quality but we also need to take care of ourselves too, to know how to offer effective help and when we might need extra help and support too. Young Minds' campaign #ItsNotAllOnYou in 2020 was for anyone who is struggling to support a friend with their mental health - check out the YM article and watch their series of videos here.
ANNA FREUD NETWORK FOR CHILDREN & FAMILIES
"Helping Someone Else' booklet available to download.
Gambling and gaming may start out by seeming to be just a 'bit of fun' but can develop into a problem. Reach out to one of the organisations below if you feel you or someone you know needs support, information or advice:
What is Gambling?
Gambling is when you 'stake or risk money, or anything of value, on the outcome of something involving chance'. Examples include bingo, betting, casinos, racing etc.
The legal age for most gambling in the UK is 18 with some exceptions for scratch cards and the National Lottery where the age is 16.
Check out the support services below or you may also find it helpful to look under other sections of this directory including Money & Finance.
BIG DEAL
Big Deal is GamCare's website for young people. Link here to Big Deal's fact sheet on Social Gaming.
DRUGFAM 0300 888 3853
Provides a seven day a week lifeline of safe, caring and professional support to families, friends, partners and significant others who are struggling to cope with a loved one’s addiction to drugs, alcohol or gambling. They also support those bereaved by drugs, alcohol, gambling and related causes.
Through a range of services, which also include education and awareness, they support families to break free from the cycle of addiction and rebuild their lives.
GamBAN
Gamban is free for UK residents through TalkBanStop (otherwise it is a paid for service) allowing you to block access to gambling websites and Apps worldwide.
GAMBLEAWARE - 0808 8020 133
For help, support and advice for people in the UK about problem gambling, providing information to help people make informed decisions about their gambling. Either call the National Gambling Helpline for 24/7 support or contact the NetLine service for confidential advice, information and emotional support.
GAMBLERS' ANONYMOUS (Gam-anon)
Support for individuals and their friends and families affected by gambling addiction which is a recognised emotional illness. Gam-Anon hold in-person meetings for anyone who has been affected by a loved one’s gambling
GAMCARE 0808 8020 133
GamCare is the leading national provider of free information, advice and support for anyone affected by problem gambling. Watch a short introductory video about GamCare here, visit their website or call the National Gambling Helpline above for support.
GAMFAM
GamFam is a registered charity set up by those who have experienced first-hand the impact that gambling can have on family and friends.
Can offer support through GRA5P – The GamFam Recovery and Support Programme. GRA5P is a structured 5-stage self-help peer support programme, which was designed originally to support those affected by someone else’s gambling.
GAMSTOP
Gamstop is a free self-exclusion service set up to help you avoid online gambling.
NATIONAL GAMBLING HELPLINE 0808 8020 133
24/7 support, operated by GamCare.
NHS - Gambling addiction support
Support options via NHS.
NATIONAL PROBLEM GAMBLING CLINICS
Self-referral clinics for those with chronic or complex difficulties including a young persons clinic.
RED CARD GAMBLING EDUCATION & SUPPORT
An organisation promoting education, awareness and prevention around gambling addiction and gambling harms.
ROYAL COLLEGE OF PSYCHIATRISTS: Problem Gambling Leaflet
SAFER GAMBLING WEEK
SGW is a cross-industry initiative to promote safer gambling in the UK. 2020 Event - SGW 19-25 November 2020.
YGAM (Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust)
@ygamUK
YGAM is an educational charity aiming to provide the tools and information to build resilience, inform, educate and safeguard young people about the potential harms of Gaming and Gambling. It does not provide direct treatment or support but has an extensive directory and resources for schools, universities and youth organisations to help people to get the support they need.
- Parents can also access the YGAM Parents' Hub here for information and advice.
- University students can access the Student YGAM site here for resources and information.
BANKS OFFERING GAMBLING SUPPORT:Many banks can offer support and advice and/or the option to block gambling transactions made through your bank accounts using a debit card. check out with Gamcare (link above) to find out more or check options with your banking provider.
BARCLAYS
MONZO
If you want help with your gambling, Monzo offer a gambling block as an optional tool that you can apply to your account in the app.
NATWEST
The NatWest app includes a gambling blocking feature.
FEARLESS
Fearless is a 24/7 site where you can access non-judgemental information and advice about crime and criminality. Fearless can also provide you with a safe place to give information to them about crime via an online form - 100% anonymously.
GANGSLINE
01375 483 239 & 07753 351 256
Charity providing help and support to young men and women involved in gang culture including information, mentoring and advice.
MISSING PEOPLE
Safecall 116000
If you are caught up in a gang or going country or are a family member worried about your loved one being involved with a gang, contact Safecall for support. SafeCall is a free, 24/7 confidential helpline or you can email 116000@missingpeople.org.uk
NSPCC Dedicated Helpline: Gangs
0808 800 5000
You can speak to the NSPCC if you're worried about a young person who is involved in or at risk from gangs.
Please take a look at our Gender and Sexuality leaflet available for free download (click image below).
You may also find it helpful to check out the HYCS Directory for further resources under other sections including P for Pronouns, S for Sexuality or L for LGBTQIAA.
AWARENESS DAYS:
- TRANS DAY OF VISIBILITY (TDOV) - 31st March annually
TDOV celebrates trans and non-binary people and raises awareness of discrimination faced by the community worldwide. It also provides an opportunity for trans and non-binary people to feel seen through positive and realistic representation and for allies to learn more about how they can stand in solidarity.
- TRANS AWARENESS WEEK
13-19 November annually
- INTERNATIONAL NON-BINARY PEOPLE'S DAY
14th July annually
INPD is aimed at raising awareness and organising around the issues faced by non-binary people around the world.
SUPPORT ORGANISATIONS:
DISTINCTION
contact@distinctionsupport.org
Distinction supports people who want to or who are supporting a partner who is Transgender, Non Binary or Gender Fluid. Distinction recognise that your partner’s changes can have significant impact on you and 'that’s what we are here for... we will hold you up while you get on with the important job of keeping your relationship together'.
GALOP
- LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline - 0800 999 5428
- Conversion Therapy - 800 130 3335
- LGBT+ Hate Crime Helpline - 020 7704 204
The UK's largest independent therapy organisation working with gender/sexual diversity clients. LGBTQ+ anti-violence charity, if you’ve experienced hate crime, sexual violence or domestic abuse, we’re here for you. Also support LGBTQ people who have had problems with the police or have questions about the criminal justice system.
GENDERED INTELLIGENCE
020 7832 5848
youthwork@genderedintelligence.co.uk
An organisation offering information and support for trans youth including youth groups for young trans people, non-binary and questioning young people aged under 21*.
No matter how you identify, Gendered Intelligence's trans youth groups are open to all young trans people - whether you're brand new to identifying as trans, still questioning your identity, or if you consider yourself to be post-transition or as having a trans history.
GENDER CONSTRUCTION KIT
A guide to altering things linked to gender, from pronouns, hair and voice to legal advice.
GIDS - Gender Identity Development Service
The Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) is a highly specialised clinic for young people presenting with difficulties with their gender identity.
They are commissioned by NHS England who set the service specifications for how they work.
Some people feel uncomfortable with the gender they were assigned at birth whilst others are unhappy with the gender role that society requires. GIDS help their clients to explore their feelings and choose the path that best suits their ideals.
IMAAN
The UK’s leading LGBTQ Muslim charity providing information & groups for the 18+ age group.
LGBT Foundation
0345 3 30 30 30
Organisation for all ages with resources plus helpline LGBT. -
METRO (London region only)
Free one-to-one therapy for LGBTQ young people in London, UK.
MINDLINE TRANS +
0300 330 5468
A confidential emotional, mental health national support helpline by Mind for people who identify as Transgender, Agender, Gender Fluid, Non-binary.
The MindLine Trans+ provides a safe place to talk about feelings confidentially. They have volunteers with lived experience of Trans+ or are Allies responding to your calls.
MOSAIC LGBT Trust
The Mosaic LGBT Trust aims to support, educate and inspire young LGBT+ people and those around them. They provide activities, programmes, services and resources to support and advocate for LGBT+rights. They provide a mentoring scheme for young LGBT+ people to get impartial advice as well as a Culture Club and localised Youth Club.
PINK THERAPY
The UK's largest independent therapy organisation working with gender/sexual diversity clients.
THE PROUD TRUST - 'Come Out & Say It' Guide
This guide will help you to answer any questions you might have about
gender, sexuality and identity and also will help you to know what you can do to
support friends, family and people around
you who want to come out.
STONEWALL - 0800 0502020
The UK charity for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people and their allies offering information, advice and local support advice.
TRANS STUDENT EDUCATION TRUSTr
A youth-led organisation dedicated to transforming the educational environment. Resources section including Gender Unicorn, Definitions and posters.
TRANZWIKI
TranzWiki was developed by GIRES and aims 'to be a comprehensive directory of the groups campaigning for, supporting or assisting trans and gender non-conforming individuals, including those who are non-binary and non-gender, as well as their families across the UK.'
BOOKS, BLOGS, VLOGS & PODCASTS:
- Gender Euphoria: Stories of Joy from Trans, Non-binary and Intersex Writers edited by Laura Kate Dale
In this groundbreaking anthology (suitable of young adults), nineteen trans, non-binary, agender, gender-fluid and intersex writers share their experiences of gender euphoria - their feelings of elation, pride, confidence, freedom and ecstasy as a direct result of coming out as non-cisgender, and how coming to terms with their gender has brought unimaginable joy into their lives.
Interactive workbook that will walk you through what gender identity actually is. You'll learn that there are endless ways to express yourself and that there's no right or wrong way to identify.
- Red Moon Gang Blog - 3 Ways to Make Periods More Inclusive
Kate Costello's blog discusses the taboos around periods and how 'Menstruation is often wrongly equated only with womanhood when the reality is a number of genders can have periods'.
You may also find it helpful to look at other sections of this Directory including H for Health/Health Conditions and C for CAMHS.
CHILDLINE - Visiting Your GP (General Practitioner)
Advice about how to make the most of your visit to your GP (doctor) with all of your questions answered.
DOC READY
It can be difficult to talk about mental health and especially hard to talk to people or ask for help. Doc Ready have put together tools that may help you prepare for the first time you visit a doctor to discuss your (mental) health covering everything including your rights and confidentiality.
If you or someone you know has been affected by loss, you can find an extensive list of organisations and resources to support you in the Bereavement section of the HYCS A-Z Directory under B - link here.
About Grief:
Grief is a natural part of the mourning process following the loss of a friend, family member, pet or someone or something important to us.
Grieving is a very individual process and there is no 'right' or 'wrong' way to feel following a loss. Your feelings may change from day to day, from moment to moment – shock, anger, disbelief, sadness, relief and numbness are all very common symptoms. The things that feel helpful in coping with these feelings will also vary from person to person.
NATIONAL GRIEF AWARENESS WEEK
Taking place in early December each year, NGAW aims to raise awareness of all aspects of grief and loss on a national scale and to open conversations about and normalise grief. It hopes to offer access to a choice of tailored bereavement support to all those grieving in the UK and to those working with the bereaved, supporting immediate access to support for all types of bereavement and to help the public to better understand how to support those grieving the loss of someone they love.
BOOKS, BLOGS, VLOGS, PODCASTS AND MORE
- My Grief Handbook by Beck Ferrari, David Trickey
Includes first-hand experiences from young people who have been through grief, to show how the ideas could work in real life. By getting to know how we are processing grief, we can start getting on with it - working alongside it and moving forward.
In addition to the resources below, you may also find it helpful to check out other sections of this Support Directory:
FRIENDS, FAMILY & TRAVELLERS 01273 234 777
A national charity that works to end racism and discrimination against Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people and to protect the right to pursue a nomadic way of life.
They support individuals and families to address the root causes of inequalities faced by Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people. Advice line available.
TRAVELLING AHEAD
An organisation set up with Save the Children for young Gypsies and Travellers in Wales.
THE TRAVELLER MOVEMENT
Uses a collective, community assets-based approach for addressing ethnic Romany Gypsy, Irish Traveller and Roma inequality, exclusion and discrimination and promoting their rights.
TRUE VISION - Report It
How to gain support if affected by or if wanting to report a hate crime.