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If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call the police on 999.
One of the most supportive things you can say to someone is that you are there for them, no matter what. You may need to accept that they don’t want to tell you about it all, but knowing that you haven’t forgotten about them or given up on them will be important to hear.
They need to know that you will listen when they’re ready and that you won’t judge them. Making changes can be a long process for some people, and it can be very hard for someone who is not living with similar difficulties to understand them.
Some people may be resistant to get help because:
If you are a child and somebody is hurting you, tell an adult you can trust like a teacher, doctor or social worker. They have a responsibility to make sure you are safe from harm.
You can also contact Childline on 0800 1111 for free (open 9am-12pm) or online (9am-10.30pm), if you want someone to talk to.
More help is available through a range of services.
If you are worried about a child, speak to someone about the concerns you have for them, call the First Response Team on 0117 903 6444. When their offices are closed, call the Emergency Duty Team on 01454 615 165.
There are also a number of additional support services available for children and families across Bristol and nationally.
If you are concerned that you, or someone you know, is experiencing domestic abuse.
Next Link provides support services, and can help arrange emergency accommodation, for women and girls who have experienced domestic or sexual abuse. You can speak to someone on live chat or by calling 0117 925 0680 or 0800 4700 280 (Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm).
Help is also available 24/7 on the free National Domestic Violence Helpline, call 0808 2000 247.
Victim Support offers support for all men who have experienced domestic or sexual abuse. Contact Victim support on 0300 303 1972 or 07432 504 692 or email bristolmens.dasupport@victimsupport.org.uk.
Find support and advice here.
If you or someone you know is vulnerable
If you are an adult and think you are being abused or neglected call Bristol’s Care Direct team on 0117 922 2700 (Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm) or find more information here.
If you are concerned about a vulnerable adult, call 0117 922 2700 (Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm) or find more details on the Family and Carers page.
If you are worried about mental health
If you, or someone you know is experiencing low mood, anxiety or other mental health issues, contact your GP. If you don’t have a doctor you can find GP services on the NHS Choices website.
If you would like to speak to someone:
Bristol Mind can offer emotional support. Call 0808 808 0330 (open 7pm to 11pm) or email: info@bristolmind.org.uk. Alternatively, call 0117 980 0370 for more information about their services.
Call The Samaritans on 116 123 (open 24 hours a day).
For more information on local mental health services and support groups during the coronavirus pandemic, visit the Bristol City Council website.
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