The festive season should not be about “getting through it” alone. No matter whether you are worried about something specific or just need someone to talk to, help is available both locally and on a national level. Please keep this page handy, share it with someone else who you think might benefit, and know that support is just a phone call or message away.
The below list is not exhaustive and was correct at time of writing.
Full list put together by Social Enterprise Kent
24/7 Support
Release the Pressure Helpline
Open 24 hours every day, for anyone aged 16+ in Kent and Medway who is feeling low or distressed. Call 0800 107 0160 or text the word KENT to 85258
Samaritans
free to call 116 123, available any time for someone to talk to, no matter how big or small the worry feels. Or you can send an email to jo@samaritans.org.
Crisis Mental Health Line
If you’re in a mental health crisis, call 111 and select the mental-health option (Kent & Medway)
Kent and Medway Mental Health line
Safe Havens
Out of hours support for adults in crisis or heading towards a crisis. No appointment needed and there are ten safe havens across Kent and Medway
Emergency Services – if you or someone you know are in a life-threatening situation, please dial 999 as soon as you can.
Wellbeing and Mental Health
Live Well Kent & Medway
Free network for adults 17+ offering self-referral to help with stress, housing, work, loneliness
Porchlight
Although known for housing support, they also offer mental-health and wellbeing services to adults across Kent. Free helpline 0800 567 7699 (Mon–Fri 9am–5pm)
Essentials
Thanet Food Link
Anyone who finds themselves in need of food can attend one of our distribution points during the specified opening hours.
Contact Details: thanetfoodlink@gmail.com or 07907 074877
Visit their website for more details
Housing
Shelter
Free advice line 0808 800 4444 for housing rights and crisis refuge
RISE Team (Thanet District Council)
RISE is a partnership between Thanet District Council, Serveco, Forward Trust, Invicta Health Care and DWP, forming a multi-agency team to work with those who are rough sleeping and most in need of support.
To contact the RISE Team please email us at roughsleeping@thanet.gov.uk or call us on 07522342686.
Drop in and see us:
- Tuesday’s 2.30pm to 4.30pm at GAP Baptist Church, Broadstairs
- Thursday’s 7am to 9am at Ramsgate Salvation Army, High Street, Ramsgate
- Friday’s 11am to 2pm at Margate Football Club, Margate
Loneliness and Connecting
The Silver Line
Free helpline for older people (over 55) who are feeling isolated. This is available 24/7 – 0800 470 8090
Warm Welcome Spaces
Local community venues which are welcoming and inclusive for everyone to connect with others. You can find a space local to you
