Local Resources by

The Parenting Village Coffee Morning

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:03:59 UTC

The Family Wellbeing Parenting Team run a parent support coffee morning at Castle Batch Children’s Centre; The Parenting Village.

The drop in is a relaxed and friendly place where parents and parenting specialists will be on hand to offer support, a listening ear and advice.

The coffee morning is held on the first Friday of each month, 9.30-11.00. Tea, coffee and cakes and of course children are welcome.

Venue: Castle Batch Children’s Centre, Bishop Avenue, Worle, Weston-super-Mare, BS22 7PQ

Supportive Parents

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:08:07 UTC

Parents and Carers with SEND aged 0-25 can use our service independently to ensure their views are shared, they understand educational processes and can contribute in decisions about their future. with parental responsibility can use our service to understand their own and their children and young people with SEND’s rights, as well as processes and policies. They may also use our service to support them with practical guidance and in voicing their views.

North Somerset Parents and Carers Working Together

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:09:57 UTC

Access a network of support through our forum, ask questions and raise issues. Here you can be heard by those who understand what it’s like to be a parent carer.

You won’t just find support here but also representation. When you voice your concerns in our forum, we can voice those same concerns to policy makers and service providers.

SENDCAS (SEND Clubs and Activities Service)

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:12:51 UTC

The team set up and manage a range of out of school and holiday provision such as specialist activities in Weston and Portishead, a variety of outings thoughout the year based on age, ability and friendship groups.

The activities support a range of additional needs. The team provide a variety of activities for children aged 6 to 18 years old (school years 1 to 13) which support independant skills, creating friendships and networks, supporting behaviour management and individual needs of children and young people that attend.

Planned trips are also tailored to a child's individual needs.

The Buddy Scheme is designed to provide a service to children and young people with a wide range of complex, additional needs and is to support them in accessing out of school activities within their community.

There are regular drop-in sessions for parents.

SENDCAS (SEND Clubs and Activities Service) | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

Mothers for Mothers

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:14:40 UTC

We offer maternal mental health and wellbeing support, advice and information to women, birthing people and their families. As mothers who have lived experience of depression, anxiety and isolation during pregnancy or after the birth our one or more of our babies, we understand how hard early parenthood can feel and how difficult it can be to ask for help.

Mothers for Mothers | Postnatal mental health support | Bristol Bath

Mums in Mind

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:16:18 UTC

Our Mums in Mind Group, is a small peer to peer support group for mums with under 1’s who are experiencing
isolation, stress, low mood, depression or anxiety.

The next group will run on Tuesday mornings from 18th April 2023.

Group is currently in Castle Batch Children’s Centre, Bishop Avenue, Weston BS22 7PQ and are open to mums from across North Somerset.

Mums can self refer into MIM or ask their health visitor/care professional to do so using our quick and secure online form at our Referrals page.

To find out more about any of our groups please request a call back via text to 07771 179 007.

Young Minds

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:19:00 UTC

Whether you want to understand more about how you're feeling and find ways to feel better, or you want to support someone who's struggling, we can help.

YoungMinds | Mental Health Charity For Children And Young People | YoungMinds

Next Link

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:21:36 UTC

We provide a range of domestic abuse support services to women, men and children. These include safe houses, children and young people’s services, dedicated services for survivors who are black or from a minoritised community, dedicated services for LGBTQ+ survivors, group work, resettlement and outreach services, and a crisis response service.

Survivors, professionals and concerned friends and family can contact us by telephone, e-mail, text or live chat to get help and support from our duty team. Survivors are asked about their situation, what they want to happen next, if they have children with them, what areas of the city are unsafe for them and whether they want a safe house or one of our community or dedicated services. We carry out a DASH risk assessment with everyone and if appropriate refer to the Domestic Violence MARAC.

We also offer families face to face and telephone advice.

To find out more about these services
please call 0800 4700 280,
text 07407 895 620,
or email enquiries@nextlinkhousing.co.uk

Reclaim

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:23:15 UTC

The Reclaim Project (formerly The Women’s Project & Healing Hearing) was established in 1993 and provides free Counselling of up to 10 sessions to women and men affected by domestic abuse living in North Somerset. Support is provided to people who are no longer in a relationship with their abuser. Reclaim will work with clients to enable them to explore their experience and help them to move forwards to reclaim their lives.

The counsellors at Reclaim offer:

– a free confidential service in a variety of venues across North Somerset

– advice and direction to the right agency who can further help and support clients.

To make an appointment with a Reclaim Counsellor, call: 07919 440233 or email: inforeclaim@vansmail.org.uk

Cruse

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:26:10 UTC

We help people through one of the most painful times in life – with bereavement support, information and campaigning.

In 2022 over 100,000 people received support directly from a Cruse volunteer or staff member and many thousands more visited our sites or connected with us on social media.

Call our Helpline

Our volunteers are trained in all types of bereavement and can help you make sense of how you're feeling right now.

0808 808 1677

Get support - Cruse Bereavement Support

NAPAC

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:26:56 UTC

If you’re an adult survivor of any form of child abuse, we’re here for you. Taking a first step is difficult, but we can provide you with support and signposting on your road to recovery.

Reach out when you’re ready

Call our free, confidential support line:

0808 801 0331

Monday to Thursday: 10am – 9pm

Friday: 10am – 6pm

Saturday and Sunday – Closed

Survivors Trust

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 11:28:09 UTC

The TST resources website has a wealth of information, survivor videos and practical self-help tips for survivors and anyone who wants to learn more about the impact of sexual violence. The website has been developed in collaboration with survivors with lived experience and representatives from The Survivors Trust member organisations, who provide specialist support to all survivors of rape, sexual assault, and sexual abuse.

The topics included on the TST resources site are:

Helpline: 08088 010818

Survivors UK

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 12:54:57 UTC

We are here for any man, boy or non-binary person who has ever experienced unwanted sexual activity (such as words, images or touch).

We can chat with you here through webchat, or by texting.

There’s no pressure or judgement when you contact us – you get to stay in control.

You can reach out as little or often as you like, and each chat can last up to 45 minutes, or shorter if you prefer.

You may not be sure if we’re the right service for you. No problem, contact us anyway, and we’ll do our best to help or point you in the right direction.

Chat via SMS text
020 3322 1860

Off the Record

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:21:42 UTC

OTR is a mental health social movement by and for young people aged 11-25 in North Somerset. Getting free wellbeing info support couldn’t be easier – explore this website and sign-up directly to the project or service you want to try. We’ll also be saying hi in your schools!

Parents can book on their online parent support group which is called Resilient Parenting. It is a 5 week psychoeducational group for parents / carers exploring the factors that contribute to resilience and how we can strengthen them. It aims to support parents / carers to build their own resilience by providing an informal discussion space with a focus on wellbeing. It is held on Tuesday's starting from the 25 ^th April from 12.20pm- 1.45pm

Resilient Parenting - OTR - North Somerset (otrnorthsomerset.org.uk)

Home Start

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:23:13 UTC

Home-Start North Somerset offers free, confidential support, friendship and practical help to parents in North Somerset. Being a parent, whatever your situation, can be very difficult, especially when children are young.

Many parents feel exhausted and overwhelmed by the stresses of family life, particularly if they have little support from family and friends when they need it most. For some parents it’s a particular struggle because they are also having to cope with issues such as post-natal depression, their or their child’s illness or disability, isolation or multiple births.

That’s when parents need support. That’s when Home-Start North Somerset can help. We are an early years support charity and in order to receive help from Home-Start North Somerset you must have at least one child under 5 in the family.

A carefully selected volunteer, who has parenting experience themselves, regularly visits a family, in their own home, offering emotional and practical support through difficult times for as long as it is helpful or needed.

This friendly parent-to-parent support is a simple yet effective way of enabling families to get back on track.

To apply for home-visiting support, you can either:

-fill in a referral form online

– phone us on 07771 179007

Are you a Parent in need of Support? | Home-Start North Somerset

Gingerbread - Single Parenting

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:24:44 UTC

Our vision is of a society in which single parents are valued, and where they – as well as their children – are treated equally and fairly. There are two million single parents in Britain – one in four families with children. Financial insecurity, stigma and social isolation are issues faced by many single parents today, and our work focuses on reducing these challenges.

We support single parent families in lots of different ways, so we measure our impact across the range of services we provide. We understand just how diverse single parents are, and our support takes account of their differences as well as their common experiences.

Helpline
0808 802 0925

About us | Gingerbread

Parents Protect

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:26:36 UTC

Because child sexual abuse is so difficult to think about, some people find it easier to deny that there is a problem.

Parents in this situation might think, 'My child would have told me if they were being abused and they haven't – so it can't be happening'.

People who sexually abuse children rely on privacy and secrecy to make sure their abuse isn’t discovered and reported. But, even when a child hasn’t said anything, there can be physical or behavioural signs that a child is being abused – children will often show us rather than tell us that something is upsetting them.

This child sexual abuse awareness and prevention website was created by the child sexual abuse prevention campaign, Stop It Now! UK and Ireland and The Lucy Faithfull Foundation (LFF). LFF is a child protection charity which manages Stop It Now! and is supported by an alliance of voluntary and statutory sector partners.

Parents Protect - Create a family safety plan

Family Holiday Charity

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:29:33 UTC

There are lots and lots of families going through tough times who can't get away together. We want to make the biggest difference we can to as many families as we can. We focus our holiday offers on families who:

Are on a low income (a household income of less than £24,000)
Haven’t had a holiday together in the last 4 years
Have at least one child under 18 who will go on the holiday

You'll need someone who is supporting you or your family to recommend you. They will need to agree to some things, including agreeing to support you to get ready and make the most from a holiday.

We call that person ‘a referrer’. They must be either a registered charity or a statutory provided service, and they’re usually someone who works in these types of organisations:

Registered charities that provide services related to families
Government provided children's and family support departments such as social services and community health teams
Health visitors from NHS services
Ofsted registered schools, nurseries and children’s centres
Registered refuge and domestic abuse support agencies
Registered housing associations

People who work in these organisations who could support you may have these kinds of roles:

Support worker
Family support worker
Social worker
Health visitor
Teacher
Teaching assistant

Advice for Families | Family Holiday Charity

Mindline Trans +

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:32:23 UTC

Mindline Trans+ is a confidential emotional, mental health support helpline and signposting service for people who identify as Trans, A Gender, Gender Fluid, Non-binary. We are also able to offer support to friends and family. We support everyone dealing with any Transgender issues, be it for they themselves, their parents, siblings, colleagues, friends, or professionals.

We provide a safe place to talk about your feelings confidentially. We don’t record calls nor ask for any personal details. Our listeners will try understand the multitude of feelings and concerns that may be going on for you. We are here to listen and offer our support.

We have Trans and Trans allies volunteering to respond to your calls as often as possible and we are open 3 evenings a week Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8pm to 11pm. This is a national service that can be accessed by anyone.

https://www.mindinsomerset.org.uk/

Gendered Intelligence

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:33:42 UTC

Gendered Intelligence, established in 2008, is a registered charity that exists to increase understandings of gender diversity and improve trans people's quality of life.

We are a trans-led and trans-involving grassroots organisation with a wealth of lived experience, community connections of many kinds, and a depth and breadth of trans community knowledge that is second to none. We believe everyone can be intelligent about gender! There are multiple strands to our work. For more information about who we are go to our about us section or see below.

Home | Gendered Intelligence

Galop

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:35:10 UTC

Get help

Our team has decades of experience in supporting LGBT+ people who are victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, hate crime, so-called conversion therapies, honour-based abuse, forced marriage, and other forms of abuse.

Call our helplines

Our helplines are open to anyone LGBT+ in the UK, as well as friends, family members, and professionals who may be concerned about an LGBT+ person who is facing abuse.

0800 999 5428

help@galop.org.uk

Pink Therapy

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:36:24 UTC

Find the right LGBTQIA+ supportive therapist or counsellor with Pink Therapy

Pink Therapy offers a directory of qualified LGBTQIA+ friendly therapists and counsellors providing trusted, non-judgmental services for people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, asexual, intersex and anyone who identifies as gender, sex or relationship diverse.

There is a whole spectrum of different gender and sexual expressions, and we welcome those who are engaged in consensual, albeit transgressive sexualities. Our therapy and counselling services offer a safe and confidential place to those who are seeking to understand and be understood.

Papyrus

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:38:43 UTC

PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide is the UK charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people.

Suicide is the biggest killer of people aged 35 and under in the UK. We believe that suicide is preventable.

Today, we are a leading youth suicide prevention charity in the UK. Our suicide prevention helpline, HOPELINE247, is staffed by trained suicide prevention advisers, who work with young people – and anybody concerned for a young person – to help keep them safe from suicide. HOPELINE247 is a free and confidential call, text and email service, which is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year (weekends and bank holidays included),

We deliver our suicide prevention education and training packages to thousands of people each year, to create suicide-safer communities across the UK.

HOPELINE247

HOPELINE247 is a confidential support and advice service for children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, or anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide.

If you are having thoughts of suicide or are concerned for a young person who might be you can contact HOPELINE247 for confidential support and practical advice.

Call: 0800 068 4141

Text: 07860 039 967

Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org

Call: 0800 068 41 41

Text: 07860 039967

Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org

Opening Hours

24 Hours, 7 days a week (Weekends and Bank Holidays included)

Alliance Homes

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:44:45 UTC

In partnership with North Somerset Council we offer a wide range of high-quality support services to people living in North Somerset. We deliver our services working alongside other local, regional and national support organisations.

These services are available to anyone in the area. You don't need to be one of our customers.

Our aim is to help you achieve control, freedom and choice over your lives, supporting you to live safely and independently at home.

We can help you to:

Identify housing options and make choices about your housing situation
Settle successfully into a new home - for example arranging removals, finding furniture and essential household items and setting up utility accounts
Maximise your income by claiming the welfare benefits you may be entitled too
Access health and social services, and other specialist agencies
Address financial problems such as rent arrears or other debts
Source aids and adaptations for your home
Access education, training, volunteering and employment opportunities
Access community groups and services that reduce loneliness and isolation
Support to get home safely after a stay in hospital
Access advice and support if you care for a family member or friend We offer a free service funded by North Somerset Council for people over 18.

You don’t have to live in one of our homes to be able to access our support services.

Alliance Homes: Contact Us

Step Change

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:46:51 UTC

Get debt advice
We find out more about you so we know what help is right for you
We will give you a plan to deal with your debts
You get advice based on your situation
Take it at your own pace
You can always take a break and come back later

Our service is free - and nobody needs to know you came to us for help

Complete the process online - or switch between online and phone
Do it at a time to suit you - and you can pause and come back to it later
We can help to set up your solution
Getting debt advice will not involve a

credit check

Advanced Parenting Groups

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:48:41 UTC

Parenting isn’t easy even when your child is well and happy, and sometimes all we need is a little advice and guidance to get us back on track when things are tricky.

Parents who find reliable, positive self-care approaches feel better able to support their children. Additionally, they do so with creativity and resilience. Parents that attend our advanced parenting skills groups report to have stronger relationships with their children after attending a group. Therefore, parenting support groups are a form of self-care that promotes both parents’ and children and young people’s mental health.

All our advanced parenting groups are evidenced based meaning they employ tried and true methods based on research that demonstrate positive outcomes and are most likely the most reliable way to approach parenting. All our groups are free to attend and run by trained facilitators, most be can accessed either face to face, online or a hybrid of the two.

Family Wellbeing Team Advanced Parenting Groups | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

The Incredible Years Pre-school

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:50:54 UTC

The Incredible Years Basic Programme suitable for parents of children 3-6 years

Suitable for parents of children with ADHD.

This 14-week programme helps parents to understand and manage their child’s behaviour. The programme aims to help parents to increase use of positive strategies to enhance children’s positive behaviours (play, praise, rewards) and to increase confidence in selectively using strategies to reduce unwanted behaviours (limit setting, ignoring, timeout). The programme emphasises the importance of parents’ sharing their experiences and encourages them to look at the benefits and challenges of each strategy to help children to learn new behaviours.

Family Wellbeing Team Advanced Parenting Groups | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

The Incredible Years School Age

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:51:50 UTC

Incredible Years School Age Programme suitable for parents of children 6 – 11 years

Suitable for parents of children with ADHD.

This 14-week programme is guided by cognitive social learning theory, child development and relationship building principles. Using video vignettes, observational and experiential learning and reflective methods, the programme supports parents to identify the most effective parenting strategies, strengthens parent-child interactions and attachment, and fostering parents’ ability to promote children’s social, emotional, and academic development.

Family Wellbeing Team Advanced Parenting Groups | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

Incredible Years Autism and Speech Delay

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:52:59 UTC

For parents with Children 2-7 years

The Incredible Years Autism and Speech Delay Programme supports parents and carers to understand their child’s development and how they can best support them.

The 14-week programme focuses on developing language and social skills and promoting children’s emotional and self-regulation, so helping them to develop positive relationships with others. Parents will discover different ways to support positive behaviour and manage challenging behaviour. Parents also share they benefit from having the opportunity to meet other parents who have children of a similar age.

Family Wellbeing Team Advanced Parenting Groups | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

Parents Plus Parenting When Separated (PWS)

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:54:43 UTC

For parents of children 0-17 years

Suitable for parents of children with Special Educational Needs

This 6-week programme is for families going through separation, and who might be experiencing increased isolation and conflict.

With the Parenting When Separated Programme, parents are supported to personally cope, and to co-parent effectively, to ensure their children cope and thrive.

This programme is practical, solution-focused and draws on parent’s strengths. It is suitable for parents who are preparing for, going through, or have gone through a separation or divorce.

Parents are supported to:

Solve co-parenting problems in a positive way which focuses on the needs of their children.
Create practical arrangements for children that minimise stress and conflict.
Improve communication with their children and with their children’s other parent.
Cope with the emotional impact of separation and learn stress management techniques.
Help their children cope emotionally with the separation.
Deal with the challenges of lone parenting or being a ‘live away’.

Family Wellbeing Team Advanced Parenting Groups | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

Parent Plus Adolescent Programme (PPAP)

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:55:57 UTC

For parents of children 11-18 years

Suitable for parents of neurodiverse children

The teenage years can be a challenging time for many families. By helping parents develop warm relationships with their teenagers you can reduce conflict and support their teenagers to grow up as well-adjusted and happy adults.

This 8-week programme is practical, solution-focused and draws on parents’ strengths, and supports to:

Manage and resolve conflict
Build self-esteem and confidence
Create warm connected relationships
Positively discipline their adolescent
Negotiate rules and boundaries
Solve problems together
Communicate positively and effectively
Reduce their own stress as parents

Parent Plus Special Needs (PPSN) Group

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:56:52 UTC

For parents of children 11-25 years

Suitable for parents whose child has an intellectual disability.

Parents of children with additional needs or a disability can face significant challenges, especially during the adolescent years.

This 8-week programme is practical, solution-focused and draws on parents’ strengths. Suitable for parents who are raising an older child or adolescent with a mild, moderate, or severe intellectual disability, and who may also have an additional diagnosis, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or a physical disability.

As a parent / Carer, learn how to:

Personally cope and manage stress
Deal with the challenges of adolescence
Support the needs of your other children
Manage challenging behaviour

Support your child to:

Learn social skills and build friendships
Deal with puberty and sexuality
Gain confidence and self-esteem
Be more independent

Family Wellbeing Team Advanced Parenting Groups | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

Working Things Out Programme

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 13:59:02 UTC

For young people 11-17 years

An 8-week programme run alongside Parents Plus adolescent’s course.

Teenagers are vulnerable to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem. With this practical CBT programme, young people are equipped with the right skills to cope positively and to overcome mental health problems.

We cover topics such as

Dealing with anger and conflict
Understand the key to solving problems.
Developing helpful thinking strategies.
Managing feeling down.
Improve relationships with friends and family.
Reducing stress.

Family Wellbeing Team Advanced Parenting Groups | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

DART (Domestic Abuse Recovering Together)

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:00:22 UTC

Suitable for women with children 7-14 years

DART is a 10-week group for mothers and their school children aged 7-14 who have experienced domestic abuse.

DART aims to help children recover from the adverse effects of domestic abuse by working with the mother and child together to strengthen their relationship and help both talk about and recover from the impact of domestic abuse.

Ideally mums will have already attended a recovery programme such as the ‘Freedom programme’.

Mums can only partake with one child at a time.

Family Wellbeing Team Advanced Parenting Groups | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

Non-Violent Resistance (NVR)

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:02:39 UTC

For Parents of children 9-18 years.

Suitable for children who are neurodiverse.

Non-violent resistance - (NVR) is a 12 - week intensive programme, which supports parents to addresses or ‘resists’ aggressive, destructive, risk-taking, and other harmful behaviours in children and adolescents. The young person will be using controlling behaviour towards the parent/carer which can take the form of physical violence, emotional abuse, or non-accidental damage in the home.

There is strong emerging evidence that NVR supports parents who have neurodivergent children who may be displaying violent/aggressive/angry behaviours that can benefit from the techniques they will learn in NVR.

If you would like to attend an NVR group a professional you know such as Support Worker, GP, or school team can complete a referral on your behalf.

Family Wellbeing Team Advanced Parenting Groups | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

Caring Dads

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:04:33 UTC

Caring Dads is a group intervention programme aiming to help fathers, of any age, improve their relationship with their children. It helps dads learn how to spend time with children in healthy ways, and to understand the impact on children of controlling, abusive and neglectful actions, which include witnessing domestic violence. The programme is evidence-based and has been refined over the last 10 years.

Who is it for?

This programme is for men who want to be a positive force in their children’s lives.

We accept referrals from individuals and other organisations.
We check fathers are suitable for the programme before it starts with a screening interview.
Fathers need to be having contact with their children at least every two weeks.

Caring Dads - St Michael's Fellowship (stmichaelsfellowship.org.uk)

Child Law Advice

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:06:57 UTC

Child Law Advice

We are a digital-first service providing family and education law advice to parents, carers and young people in England.

We have lots of free to access content on our website. This is clear and easy to understand, giving you practical advice on the available next steps you can take.

If you need more in-depth knowledge on a particular topic, you can download one of our low-cost How-to guides.

If you need extra help after reading the advice on our website, we also offer a limited email or telephone service. This is for clarifying information rather than general enquiries.

The demand for our telephone service is very high and we are only able to answer a limited number of calls. Please only get in touch if you can’t find the answer on our website. You can use the site search bar to find specific content.

The Child Law Advice Service is operated by Coram Children’s Legal Centre, the UK’s leading children’s legal charity.

https://childlawadvice.org.uk/

Family Rights Group

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:08:46 UTC

Family Rights Group promotes policies and practices that keep children safe within their family and strengthen the family and community networks of those children who cannot live at home.

We campaign for families to have their voice heard, be treated fairly and get help early to prevent problems escalating.

We are a charity that advises parents, grandparents, relatives and friends about their rights and options when social workers or courts make decisions about their children’s welfare. We work with parents whose children are in need, at risk or are in the care system and with wider family members and friends who are raising children (known as kinship carers).

https://frg.org.uk/

• Families Need Fathers (FNF)

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:09:58 UTC

Families Need Fathers (FNF): is the leading UK charity supporting dads, mums and grandparents to have personal contact and meaningful relationships with their children following parental separation. They offer information, advice and support services helping parents to achieve a positive outcome for their children. Their online Forum and network of branches also offer free guidance of solicitors and others familiar with the operation of the family courts.

Find out more on their website here:

https://fnf.org.uk/ or contact their helpline on 0300 0300 363.

Grief Encounter South West

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:11:49 UTC

Are you worrying about your child who may be struggling after a bereavement? Here is some information that we hope can support you

Grief is devastating at any age, as a teenager it can be a very confusing time, please check out how we can help you

Are you a parent or carer who is worried about your child or family member after a bereavement? Are you also grieving too?

Home - South West - Grief Encounter

Winston's Wish

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:13:44 UTC

Winston’s Wish is a charity that helps children, teenagers and young adults (up to the age of 25) find their feet when their worlds are turned upside down by grief.

Through information, on-demand services, bereavement support and counselling, we support young people across the UK to understand their feelings, process their grief and find ways to move forward with hope for a brighter future. We also help the adults who are caring for young grieving people including parents, school staff and healthcare professionals.

Winston's Wish - giving hope to grieving children (winstonswish.org)

The Mix

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:14:40 UTC

The Mix is the UK’s leading digital charity for under 25s, reaching over 6 million young people each year. Whatever issue a young person is facing, The Mix is always there for them – via our website, over the phone or via social media. Our support is free, confidential and anonymous and can be accessed wherever young people are.

We connect young people to experts and their peers to talk about everything from money to mental health, homelessness to jobs, break-ups to drugs and more. No topic is out of bounds, and we are completely non-judgemental.

The Mix’s mission is to empower every young person to make an informed choice about their wellbeing; whether that’s through our peer-led and moderated community, multi-channel helpline, counselling service, crisis support messenger or our range of support content.

We aim to put young people at the centre of everything we do; we use our service data and collaborate with under 25s to inform every aspect of our services and our wider work. We use youth voice work to share a platform with young people and put their views and experiences at the centre of the conversation.

The Mix - Essential support for under 25s

Happy HeARTs for Kids

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:16:00 UTC

at Big Worle Hub - a kids art journaling course – 12 workshops – explore the power of art with positive messages, quotes, words or affirmations using painting and collage techniques – Free – the child will also receive a blank journal, handpainted Happy HeARTs tote bag and other goodies
Ring Jo on 07929871874 or email creationsbyfina@yahoo.co.uk or on Facebook – Creations by Fina

Youth Inclusion Support Project (YISP)

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:17:31 UTC

YISP works with young people aged 10 to 17 to provide support with the various challenges or struggles they might be facing. These young people are vulnerable to risk factors such as exploitation, offending or anti-social behaviour. We work with medium and high levels of vulnerability and accept referrals from any agency, parent or young person.

We provide support for:

stress tolerance
consequential thinking
weapon education and awareness
difficulties managing feelings including anger and anxiety
low self-esteem
low school attendance
difficulties building relationships
social isolation
safety online

YISP workers are also trained to work with young people who are displaying inappropriate or harmful sexual behaviour, or may have been involved in sexting or sharing images.

The programme support is delivered through our team of professionally qualified preventative case workers. The type of sessions vary depending on the needs and preference of the young person. These can either be:

group work
short session work around specific areas of concern
a series of 12 bespoke one-to-one weekly sessions

We usually work with young people face-to-face in school, at home or in the community. We can also offer virtual sessions via telephone calls, emails and video calls where requested. All work is completed with young people on a voluntary engagement basis.

Youth Inclusion Support Project (YISP) | North Somerset Council (n-somerset.gov.uk)

Kooth -

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:19:43 UTC

Your online mental wellbeing community

Free, safe and anonymous support

Just some of the things you'll find on Kooth

Articles

Helpful articles, personal experiences and tips from young people and our Kooth team.

Discussion Boards

Start or join a conversation with our friendly Kooth community. Lots of topics to choose from!

Chat with the team

Chat to our helpful team about anything that's on your mind. Message us or have a live chat.

Daily Journal

Write in your own daily journal to track your feelings or emotions and reflect on how you're doing.

Home - Kooth

Support Line

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:22:15 UTC

We offer confidential emotional support to children, young adults and adults by telephone, email and post. We work with callers to develop healthy, positive coping strategies, an inner feeling of strength and increased self esteem to encourage healing, recovery and moving forward with life.

You can call our Helpline number on: 01708 765200
or email us: info@supportline.org.uk

Redeeming Our Communities and COACH

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:24:05 UTC

Redeeming Our Communities and COACH are thrilled to launch a new partnership to extend the COACH mentoring scheme across the UK.

COACH was initially developed in Australia in 2003 and has been evaluated twice by Monash University. The scheme is a community strengthening program that aims to empower disadvantaged children, young people and families and build resilience in individuals through one-to-one mentoring. COACH has now grown to have over 700 mentors supporting more than 500 families with 1000 children plus over 100 young people.A mentor is a friend with purpose, offering practical help and mentoring towards life goals. Mentoring is a way to bring out the best in people and help them make use of their own resources and also promotes individual responsibility and builds community cohesion.

We’re convinced that ROC Community Mentors in partnership with COACH will result in communities being blessed and transformed throughout the UK. We’re looking forward to sharing stories with you about lives changed as we expand this scheme across the country.

ROC & COACH Launch New Partnership | ROC

In Charley's Memory

edwardpugh — 2023-09-25 14:24:56 UTC

At In Charley’s Memory, we provide 1:1 counselling for anyone over the age of 11 at our offices in Highbridge. You will be invited in for an assessment with a member of our counselling team after which you will be matched with a counsellor to begin your counselling journey. There is a waiting list for our services, how long will depend on your age.

In Charley's Memory (incharleysmemory.com)

Outdoor College

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 08:11:59 UTC

Outdoor College is a CIC working to inspire positive change; helping us all live, learn and work as well as we can in greater harmony with our natural environment.

Our aim is to hold in balance People’s health and Nature’s health in all our work.

We work from the beautiful surroundings of Brown Rock woodland in Tickenham, North Somerset, with 20 acres of mature woodland, grassland and a market garden.

We provide an outdoor learning hub for North Somerset, with access to the woodlands by public transport from Nailsea, Clevedon and Long Ashton.

We facilitate nature-based wellbeing support and experiential learning for all ages, encouraging everyone to share their knowledge and life experiences.

Nature and Wellbeing | Outdoor Learning | Tickenham (outdoorcollege.co.uk)

Turning the Tide

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 08:15:04 UTC

North Somerset Council, Polaris Children’s Services, Bridges Fund Management and Outcomes for Children, have come together to deliver “Turning the Tide”. Turning the Tide is an innovative edge of care service, funded through a Social Impact Bond. The aim of the service is to reduce the need for children and young people to be looked after, by either working with families to keep children safely at home, or by keeping care placements short and reuniting children and young people with their families as soon as possible.

The service uses a strength based intensive multi modal intervention over a 12 or 18 week period which involves delivering practical support to the heart of the family in their own home. The support will equip children, young people and the families with the skills and coping mechanisms to reduce unwanted behaviour, increase positive family functioning and build their resilience.

North Somerset Turning the Tide - Polaris Children's Services (polarischildrensservices.co.uk)

Wellspring College

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 08:17:39 UTC

Wellspring offers confidential help and support from professionally trained counsellors to people in the local community. Their Young People’s Service provides counselling and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy to 11-18-year olds.

Wellspring Counselling - Counselling for Adults and Young People

Support for younger children and their parents They also support parents/carers of children aged 5 – 12 years old who live or go to school in North Somerset. These are carried out over the phone, online or using a video link. The support available includes:

• Support for parents of children who are displaying mildly challenging behaviour.

• Support for parents of children experiencing anxiety

Self-referral for the Young People’s Service and General Service is by telephone, email or letter. Parents who are interested in taking part in the parenting support sessions can email: krissie@wellspringcounselling.org.uk

Counselling for adults and young people in Somerset (wellspringcounselling.org.uk)

BEAT

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 08:20:06 UTC

Our national Helpline exists to encourage and empower people to get help quickly, because we know the sooner someone starts treatment, the greater their chance of recovery. People can contact us online or by phone 365 days a year.
We listen to them, help them to understand the illness, and support them to take positive steps towards recovery. We also support family and friends, equipping them with essential skills and advice, so they can help their loved ones recover whilst also looking after their own mental health.

And we campaign to increase knowledge among healthcare and other relevant professionals, and for better funding for high-quality treatment, so that when people are brave enough to take vital steps towards recovery, the right help is available to them.

The work we do means that every year lives are saved, families are kept together, and people are able to live free of eating disorders.

About Beat (beateatingdisorders.org.uk)

Alateen

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 08:21:31 UTC

Alateen is for teenage relatives and friends of alcoholics. Alateen is part of Al-Anon.

We believe alcoholism is a family disease that affects everyone in the family. Alateen meetings are for 12-17 year olds. They meet to share their experiences of having, or having had, a problem drinker in their lives. They help and support each other.

By attending meetings, young people gain an understanding of the illness and feel the benefits of realising they are not alone. They learn that they did not cause this problem and that they are not responsible for their relative’s or friend’s drinking or behaviour.

By sharing their experiences, they find solutions to their problems and hope for the future.

BigDeal

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 08:31:12 UTC

BigDeal is a place for young people to get information, advice and guidance about gambling. We also help parents and professionals such as teachers, social workers and youth workers. We know all about gambling, how someone else’s gambling can affect you, and about the difficulties young people can get into if their gambling gets out of hand. That’s why you can share your worries via our live chat or helpline, without fear of judgement.

We help children and teenagers, from 11 years up. You might be here to get the facts about gambling and find out how it can become harmful, or maybe you are worried about your own gambling, or someone else’s. We also provide resources for parents and for professionals who work with young people.

What we do - BigDeal

Call free 0808 8020 133

Hollie Guard

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:16:48 UTC

Leading personal safety app.

Activate

The app has several ways to raise an Alert. By default you will have to press and hold the panic button for 5 seconds to start an Alert. The app also offer discreet and stealth modes that help with raising an Alert when you can’t be appearing to use your phone.

Populate

The app will now start to pin point your location, activate your phone’s camera and microphone to capture evidence (user permission dependant) and capture any other relevant information.

Respond

Your Alert details will now be sent to your choosen Emergency Contacts. They will recieve a secure web link with your location, and the evidence your phone is sharing. There will also be quick links to contact you to see if you need further help.

Christians against poverty

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:19:15 UTC

Money and debt advice

Key information to help you make the right choices with your finances, including help with budgeting and some key terms explained

Get help near you

Find the help you need where you are through CAP's free, accredited and friendly service

Home | CAP UK

Second Step

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:21:36 UTC

We’re a leading mental health charity that’s been putting mental health first for people in Bristol and the South West for over 30 years. We believe that with the right support, everyone can take control of their life and make their future their own. Our services can be found in Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire and Somerset.

Our mission is to promote mental health and wellbeing by supporting people and communities to build brighter futures. Working hand-in-hand with the NHS and local authorities, we offer practical help and emotional support tailored to each individual and their recovery.

The people who use our services are at the heart of our organisation, and our involvement groups help inform and improve the services we deliver.

Shelter

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:23:58 UTC

Got a housing problem? We can help:

Locally
Our advice and support services offer one-to-one, personalised help with housing issues and homelessness.
Online
On our website, find expert information about everything from reclaiming your deposit to applying as homeless, or speak to an adviser over webchat.
Over the phone
Our free emergency helpline is open 365 days a year to answer calls from anyone struggling with a housing issue or homelessness.
Legal
Our solicitors provide free legal advice and attend court to help people who’ve lost their homes or are facing eviction.

Healthy Start

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:25:29 UTC

If you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.

If you’re eligible, you’ll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. We’ll add your benefit onto this card every 4 weeks.

You can use your card to buy:

plain liquid cow’s milk
fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables
fresh, dried, and tinned pulses
infant formula milk based on cow’s milk

You can also use your card to collect:

Healthy Start vitamins – these support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding
vitamin drops for babies and young children – these are suitable from birth to 4 years old

Escape

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:27:28 UTC

Escape Support Group aims to provide support to families in Somerset raising children who have disabilities or additional needs, through providing a wide range of fun activities, days out & occasional short break holidays. Our events boost morale, increase confidence, improve social skills as well as develop & strengthen friendships.

Home | Escape Support Group | Creech Saint Michael

Healthy Appetite and Activities

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:29:50 UTC

We organise, plan and deliver activity sessions during the school holidays, with our coaches who are all highly experienced across a multitude of sports, activities and art.

We work hard to provide an amazing variety of activities to suit everyone. We deliver age-appropriate physical fun and enriching activities that give children the opportunity to develop new skills and knowledge, or to seek out new experiences.

A key element of the programme is the addition of nutritional education designed to improve children’s knowledge and awareness of healthy eating, with good food practices for families and carers.

This year the scheme has been given a major boost by Premiership footballer Marcus Rashford of Manchester United. Our holiday programme includes enrichment activities that can include Emergency Service visits, nutritional advice and cooking workshops. Also a visit from the globally acclaimed Football Freestyler 'Dan Magness', and visits to local attractions.

Holiday Club | Healthy Appetite and Activities

Clubs, activities and sports (N-Somerset Council)

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:34:50 UTC

Are you looking for something to do in the evenings or weekends? We list all types of clubs, groups, organisations and societies, whether you want to do something sporty or join a uniformed group such as guides or scouts.

When you've found what you want, you can use our Shortlist facility to generate a list of all the items that are of interest to you, alternatively you can view our What's on

Activities for the under 5s

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:37:18 UTC

Are you looking for something to do with your pre-school aged child?

You can use this section to find parent and toddler groups, music groups and sporting activities such as swimming lessons.

For family

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:40:05 UTC

Disability, special needs and the local offer

Understanding Childcare

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:42:03 UTC

To support parents to understand the different government childcare schemes and how they interact, a simple poster has been produced to simplify the full childcare offer.

If you are claiming benefits or on a low income your two year old may be entitled to funding. Check to see if your child is entitled to two year old funding.

All children aged 3 or 4 years old are eligible for funded early education for up to 15 hours a week. The Government has increased this to 30 hours a week for working parents earning the equivalent of the National Minimum wage for 16 hours per week. The government has produced a handy information leaflet - 'Top things parents need to know about Tax Free Childcare and 30 hours'

Working parents in receipt of Universal Credit may be entitled to receive the childcare costs element of Universal Credit. This means that they can be reimbursed up to 85% of their eligible childcare costs for childcare which enables them to take up paid work. Parents can see what help they can get with the cost of childcare via the Childcare Choices website

This childcare costs element can be claimed by parents in addition to the DfE's free childcare element.

The government has introduced a Tax Free Childcare scheme.

Find out about help you could get with your childcare costs via the government on-line calculator

If your child has special educational needs or is disabled you may be entitled to additional support.

Citizen's Advice North Somerset

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:46:45 UTC

Citizens Advice North Somerset offers free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information. Our service is for people living and/or working in North Somerset. If you live outside of North Somerset, you can find your nearest branch here.

We are one of the country’s most progressive and dynamic advice services. Operating from drop in advice centre, dedicated telephone advice and a range of outreach locations, employing approximately 55 paid staff supported by 43 volunteers.

We are a member of the Citizens Advice network which provides an extensive online information system used to advise clients and also sets the standards of advice, training and equal opportunities for our offices. Citizens Advice also helps people at national level by providing information and advice and by influencing policymakers.

The Citizens Advice service provides free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities. It values diversity, promotes equity and challenges discrimination.

Our twin aims are to:

provide the advice people need for the problems they face
improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives

Home - Citizens Advice North Somerset (nscab.org.uk )

Family Wellbeing funding

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:49:27 UTC

The Family Wellbeing Team from North Somerset Council Children’s Services are currently running pilot schemes to allocate funding from three Government programmes.

Supporting Families
United Kingdom Resettlement Schemes
Parenting Programmes

Funding from each programme is available for organisations or individuals who provide positive outcomes for children, young people, and families to run projects which support the ambitions of a programme. The Family Wellbeing Team have developed a panel for each programme to review these applications and allocate funding.

Applications for funding are open to anyone who can demonstrate how their project benefits children, young people or families in one or more of these areas.

Applications will be reviewed monthly by the relevant panel and funding will be granted within two weeks of agreed application

Live a healthier lifestyle

edwardpugh — 2023-09-26 12:53:56 UTC

Healthy Lifestyles Advisors

Information about our Healthy Lifestyles Advisors and how they can support you to live healthier

One You

National campaign to encourage us to live healthier and longer including a quiz to find your personal health score

Manage your weight

Help to reach and maintain a healthy weight, including when you are pregnant

Stop smoking

Services to help you quit smoking with special advice for pregnant women and for people going into hospital

Drugs and alcohol

Support for people who misuse drugs and alcohol and information about our young people's substance advice service

Community food projects grant

Find out how to apply for the community food projects grant

Live a healthier lifestyle | North Somerset Council (n-somerset.gov.uk)

Park Play at Castle Batch

2023-09-29 12:00:35 UTC

What to expect

ParkPlay is a 90min session of fun and games for everyone starting at 9:30am every Saturday.

Head to the Castle Batch ParkPlay Facebook Page to find out more and like the page to keep up to date with news about Castle Batch ParkPlay.

Where we play

Castle Batch Park, St Marks Rd, North Worle, Weston-super-Mare BS22 7PL

what3words ///long.curving.bought

Castle Batch ParkPlay takes place next to the basketball court near the Community Centre – Just look for the ParkPlay flag!

Dad's Rock

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:07:19 UTC

Worle Dads Rock: Early Years Music-Making for Dads & Their Children

Play, explore and create music with your little ones. Fun & interactive music-making for dads and their children aged 0-5.

1 hour 30 minutes

Join our FREE sessions! Explore music, stories & games together.

Our interactive sessions are designed to support your baby and toddler's natural development in areas such as communication, language, numeracy and creativity.

Have fun, bond with your little ones and meet other dads too.

Worle Dads Rock: Early Years Music-Making for Dads & Their Children Tickets, Sat 14 Oct 2023 at 10:00 | Eventbrite

Action for Prisoners' and Offenders Families

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:23:13 UTC

We believe that:

Imprisonment damages family life and separates children from parents.

Our Vision is:

That every prisoner’s family should get the support they would like and need.

Who do we work with?

Action for Prisoners’ Families works across statutory, private and voluntary sectors - education, health, social care, criminal justice, and children’s services - to reduce the negative impact of imprisonment. We promote and support the development of services for prisoners’ families.

What can we do?

We have a wide range of publications and resources including storybooks for children with a parent in custody (free of charge to prisoners’ families), and resources for practitioners working with prisoners’ families.

You can join us for free and get access to free downloads, up-to-date information on issues relevant to the families of prisoners’, information on training, workshops, forums and events, networking and consultative opportunities, etc.

Our Development Officers, who are based around England and Wales, can give practitioners advice and support on setting up support groups, family friendly prison visits, working with prisoners’ families, best practice, etc. E-mail: lucykeenan@actionpf.org.uk if you would like to make contact.

If you just have a general query about our work, require information, or want to know about working with prisoners’ families do get in touch.

Action for Prisoners' and Offenders Families | North Somerset Online Directory (n-somerset.gov.uk)

Advisory Centre for Education (ACE)

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:25:53 UTC

We provide free, independent and legally accurate advice on education via our advice line, helping parents to support their children's education. We give advice across the whole range of education issues: school exclusions, special educations needs, school admission and choice, bullying, attendance issues and disputes or discrimination.

Calls take on average 30 minutes, reflecting the complexity of the issues we help patents and carers with. This allows us to dig a little deeper to discover the root cause of a problem, and suggest solutions based on our years of experience. Our advisors help parents find a way forward and work with schools to get a positive result for their child.

ACE's free, independent education service is now available by sms/text message. Text keyword ASKACE to 68808 and follow the instructions.

Keyword Subject for texting:

ADMISSIONS - School admissions and appeals
ATTENDANCE - School attendance issues
BULLYING - Bullying at school
EXCLUSION - Fixed period & permanent exclusion from school
SEN - Special educational needs

General advice line: 0808 800 5793

Exclusion advice line: 0808 800 0327

Mon-Fri: 10.00am-5.00pm

Independent Health Complaints Advocacy

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:28:58 UTC

The National Health Service (NHS) works hard to treat everybody the way they would want to be treated, and in good time. But sometimes things don’t happen the way we want them to.

If you are unhappy with the service you, or someone else, has received from the NHS, you have the right to raise your concerns about it.

If the NHS doesn’t know what it’s doing wrong, then it can’t put it right and stop the same thing from happening to someone else.

If you decide to make a complaint, you should do so within 12 months of the incident you are complaining about. Or within 12 months of you realising how what happened has affected you.

The NHS will sometimes look at complaints that are outside of these timescales.

How can The Advocacy People help?

If you would like the support of an advocate, have a look at our Factsheet, which tells you what an advocate can do.

If you would like to make the complaint yourself, or have started the process already, take a look at our Self Help Information Pages.

To find out if we provide this service in your area, have a look at our map here

If we don’t provide the service in your area, there will be someone else who does.

NHS Complaints Advocacy (theadvocacypeople.org.uk)

Independent Mental Health Advocacy

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:30:05 UTC

Support for people who are under section in a hospital, secure unit or in the community.

How can The Advocacy People help?

Being under section can be an uncertain time. It means that there are things you can and can’t do, you might have new treatments and other people have certain rights to make decisions about you.

An advocate can help you understand your rights and help you get answers to your questions. They can attend meetings with you and speak to people on your behalf.

We have a factsheet which tells you more about what we do.
Click here to see the factsheet.

To find out if we provide this service in your area, have a look at our map here.

If we don’t provide the service, there will be someone else who does.

Mental Health Advocacy (theadvocacypeople.org.uk)

Independent Care Act Advocacy

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:31:13 UTC

Making sure people have their say in how they are cared for and supported.

How can The Advocacy People help?

When decisions are being made about what kind of care and support we need, it is really important that we are put at the centre, as the expert in our own lives. Some of us will feel confident to speak up for ourselves and often a family member or friend can help us make this happen.

But sometimes this isn’t possible – it might be difficult for us to be fully involved (called ‘substantial difficulty’) if we have no-one around us who can support us.

If this is the case, the local authority must then think about arranging an Independent Care Act Advocate when they are preparing:

An adult needs assessment to see what care and support an adult might need
A carer’s assessment to see if someone who provides care for someone else needs support
A child’s needs assessment to see what support a child might need as they become an adult (children under transition to adult services)
A care and support plan for an adult, or checking it’s still right
A safeguarding enquiry or a safeguarding adults review when they think someone is being abused or neglected

We have a factsheet which tells you more about what we do.
Click here to see the factsheet.

To find out if we provide this service in your area, have a look at our map here.

If we don’t provide the service, there will be someone else who does.

Care, Support and Safeguarding (Care Act) Advocacy (theadvocacypeople.org.uk)

Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:32:24 UTC

For people who have been assessed as lacking capacity to make certain decisions.

How can The Advocacy People help?

We all assume a basic right to make decisions about where we live and how we are cared for. We make choices every day.

But due to disability, illness or injury we may not be able to make the important decisions and have to trust that other people will make good decisions for us.

Some decisions are so important that the law (Mental Capacity Act 2005) says the person making the decision must instruct an advocate. An Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA) must be instructed when:

The person is aged 16 or over
A decision needs to be made about either serious medical treatment or a long-term change in where the person lives
The person lacks capacity to make that decision

And

There is no one independent of services, such as a family member or friend, who is “appropriate to consult”.

An IMCA supports the person who lacks capacity and represents their likely views to those responsible for making decisions. They will seek all possible information from the person, the people around them and relevant records.

They will ensure that, wherever possible, the person has been given sufficient support to participate in decision-making processes. They will ensure that the person’s rights are upheld.

Children & Young Persons Advocacy

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:34:05 UTC

Children & Young Persons Advocacy

How can The Advocacy People help?

You have as much right as an adult to be listened to when decisions are being made about your life. What you feel and want is very important.

You can usually have an advocate to help you speak up about what you feel and want if you:

Are a Child in Care
Are leaving Care
Have a disability or other need
Are a young carer
Want to make a complaint about your social care

You might be able to have an advocate in other situations – this will depend where you live. If you want to find out more, get in touch, our details are at the bottom of this page.

What does an advocate do?

An advocate:

Listens to you
Explains information
Finds out your wishes and feeling
Helps you tell others what you want or tells them for you, if you want the advocate to do this
Gets answers to your questions
Won’t tell you what to do
Is independent which means they won’t make any decisions about or for you

How can I get help from an advocate?

Most of the time, an adult will ask you if you want an advocate and get in touch with us.

But if you want to get in touch yourself, you can by using the details below.

To find out if we provide this service in your area, have a look at our map here.

Community, Peer and Citizen’s Advocacy

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:39:24 UTC

How can The Advocacy People help?

Sometimes the decisions you have to make about your health and social care aren’t covered by the statutory advocacy services. Statutory advocacy is advocacy that the law says every area must have.

In some areas you might be able to get support from:

Community Advocates (sometimes called General Advocates) if you have a disability or are in a situation where you feel vulnerable and unable to speak up. It can include Community Mental Health Advocacy, Learning Disability Advocacy, Advocacy for Carers and/or Parents' (Child Protection) Advocacy.

Peer Advocates who are people who have ‘lived experience’. This means they might have the same disability or have been through a situation similar to you.

Citizen Advocates who support people for a much longer time than other advocates. It is a partnership between the advocate and the person and usually lasts for as long as both want it to.

Social Care Complaints Advocacy

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:40:24 UTC

Supporting you if you wish to make a complaint about local authority social care services for adults or children.

These are some of the things that you might want to complain about:

The attitude or behaviour of staff
A care plan, an assessment or review
Decisions that you do not agree with

If you decide to make a complaint, you should do so within 12 months of the incident you are complaining about. Or within 12 months of you realising how what happened has affected you.

In certain circumstances the local authority will sometimes look at complaints that are outside of these timescales, but they do not have to do so.

If you would like to make the complaint yourself, or have started the process already, we've put together some useful guides in our self help information pages.

Social Care Complaints Advocacy (theadvocacypeople.org.uk)

Healthwatch North Somerset

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:42:17 UTC

North Somerset is your health and social care champion. If you use GPs and hospitals, dentists, pharmacies, care homes or other support services, we want to hear about your experiences. We have the power to make sure NHS leaders and other decision makers listen to your feedback and improve standards of care. We also help people find reliable and trustworthy information and advice.

What we do

Share your feedback with NHS leaders and other care providers, to let them know what's working well and what needs improving.
Make recommendations about how health and social care services could or should be improved.
Make sure NHS leaders and other care providers listen to what you have to say.
Report issues to organisations such as the Integrated Care System, the Care Quality Commission, and the local Health and Wellbeing Board.
Give you information and advice about accessing health and social care services, and the options available in your area.
Help you get the best out of health and social care services.

What we do | Healthwatch Northsomerset

Breastfeeding

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:51:11 UTC

We have got 6 face to face breastfeeding support groups, please see here for the latest opening hours Breastfeeding in North Somerset Support Groups Opening Hours

Portishead Children's Centre, St. Barnabas Centre, West Hill, Portishead, BS20 6LN
Tuesdays, 10:00am – 11:30am
Tel: 01275 884 001 Email:portisheadchildrenscentre@n-somerset.gov.uk
Clevedon Children's Centre, The Barn, Great Western Road, Clevedon, BS21 6HB
Wednesdays, 11am – 12.30pm
Tel: 01934 426 440
South Weston Children's Centre, For All Healthy Living Centre, 68 Lonsdale Avenue, W-S-M, BS23 3SJ
Wednesdays, 1:00pm-2:30pm
Tel: 01934 427550
Email : SWCC@n-somerset.gov.uk
Worle Library and Children's Centre, Mendip Avenue, Worle, W-S-M, BS22 6HN
Thursdays, 9:30am -11:00am
Tel: 01934 426 618
Email:weccentres@n-somerset.gov.uk
West Town Backwell Methodist Church, West Town Road, Backwell, BS48 3HG
Fridays 10.00am -11:30am
Email: nailsea.backwellcc@n-somerset.gov.uk
Peer Support @LAMBS, Long Ashton Community Centre, Keedwell Hill, BS41 9DP

2nd & 4th Wednesdays 11.00am-1.00pm

You can get also get infant feeding support in a variety of other ways:

Contact your midwife or health visitor who will be happy to discuss feeding with you
Join your local Facebook group for virtual support from local trained mums. (links below) Our peer supporters understand the challenges you might be facing and are on hand to answer your questions however small or just to have a chat about how things are going :-)
Our breastfeeding specialist clinic is run by our team of Specialist Infant feeding Health Visitors, so if you are in need of additional support please ask to be referred by your health professional or contact the Health Visiting service on 0300 1255060
National Breastfeeding Helpline are open every day of the year 9.30am to 9.30pm on the phone or via webchat
You will also find lots of information and links to video clips below that might be helpful

Anti-Bullying Alliance

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:54:05 UTC

Whether you are a parent/carer, young person, or work with young people; if you're worried about bullying or want to find out where you can get advice and support this is the section for you!

Advice and support (anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk)

Bliss

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 12:56:59 UTC

Why we exist

Our vision

Bliss’ vision is that every baby born premature or sick in the UK has the best chance of survival and quality of life.

Our mission

We exist to ensure all babies in neonatal care:

have the best chance of survival
have well-supported parents playing an active role in their decision-making and care
are cared for in neonatal environments that best support their development
benefit from neonatal research that can lead to practical improvements in their care
receive high-quality care within a neonatal health system which is appropriately funded, structured and staffed.

Over the next three years (2019-2022) our ambition is for every baby born premature or sick in the UK to have the best chance of survival and quality of life.

The Bridge

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 13:03:20 UTC

Here, no matter what

It doesn’t matter when you were assaulted, where it happened or who did it – we’ll listen to your experience and help you to get the support you choose.

The Bridge is a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC). We offer medical care, emotional and psychological support, and practical help to anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted.

Our specialist team will be here for you if you are:

An adult or child, living in Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, Bath & North East Somerset or Somerset.
A child, living in Gloucestershire, Wiltshire or Swindon.

We also offer information and support to friends and family if someone you care about has been affected by rape or serious sexual assault.

Call us for free and confidential advice on 0117 342 6999. We’re here 24/7, 365 days a year.

CALM

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 13:09:43 UTC

We’re the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) and we’re taking a stand against suicide. That means standing against feeling hopeless, standing up to stereotypes and standing together to show life is always worth living.

Every week 125 people in the UK take their own lives. CALM exists to change this - by offering life-saving services, provoking national conversation, and bringing people together to reject living miserably.

But we can't do it alone.

CALM GUIDES

You can talk to CALM about anything.
We have a few guides to things people tend to struggle with.

BULLYING

ANGER

ABUSE

DEPRESSION

BIPOLAR DISORDER

ADDICTION

EATING DISORDERS

GamCare

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 13:16:52 UTC

GamCare is the leading provider of information, advice and support for anyone affected by gambling harms. We operate the National Gambling Helpline, provide structured support for anyone who is harmed by gambling, create awareness about safer gambling and treatment, and encourage an effective approach to safer gambling within the gambling industry.

GamCare offers a range of options for people struggling with the impact of gambling on their lives – both gamblers and their loved ones. We can help you:

Over the phone
Face-to-face
Online

Our treatment is free, flexible and confidential. It is available for adults affected by gambling across England, Scotland and Wales.

We can also provide dedicated support for young people under 18 across the whole of the UK, including Northern Ireland.

Kinship

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 13:18:46 UTC

What we do

We use our experience, expertise and strength to change lives. We support kinship carers in their homes and communities, giving advice and helping them work through problems to find the best way forward.

We connect carers together in our national community and network of local support groups, so they don’t have to face the fight alone.

We help professionals understand kinship families and improve support for them. And through our research and campaigns we make sure kinship care is understood and government knows what changes are needed.

We’ll not rest until the recognition and support is there for every kinship family.

JHF

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 13:35:43 UTC

Our vision is to ensure that every child regardless of their background achieves their unique potential, goes on to lead a happy, successful life and makes a positive contribution to their community.

Our core values are positivity, integrity, equality, diversity, inclusion, respect, resilience & collaboration.

How we help young people

Mentoring

Tutoring

Therapeutic Programmes

Outdoor Learning

The JHF – Mentoring and Education solutions

ManKind Initiative

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 13:41:13 UTC

Male Victims of Domestic Abuse – Please call our helpline on 01823 334244 to speak to us confidentially

Our confidential helpline is available for male victims of domestic abuse and domestic violence across the UK as well as their friends, family, neighbours, work colleagues and employers.

We provide an information, support and signposting service to men suffering from domestic abuse from their current or former wife, partner (including same-sex partner) or husband. This can range from physical violence or object throwing to abuse such as constant bullying or insults.

We have also produced a directory of local services (called the Oak Book) which support male victims, so please visit this section to find the service in your community.

The helpline is a listening service which provides emotional support, practical information and signposting.

We receive calls from male victims of domestic abuse across all age ranges and professions:

From dustmen and doctors, to, bankers and builders
From men in their 20s to men in their 80s
From men in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

The helpline also welcomes calls from friends, family members, neighbours, colleagues and employers of male victims seeking information.

We also receive calls from support organisations, charities and statutory agencies such as local authorities and police forces.

Maternity Action

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 13:43:30 UTC

Maternity Action is the UK’s maternity rights charity dedicated to promoting, protecting and enhancing the rights of all pregnant women, new mothers and their families to employment, social security and health care.

Work and benefits

We provide free advice on maternity and parental rights at work, pay and benefits to pregnant women, new parents, trade unions and advisers.

NHS maternity care & charging

We offer free and confidential expert advice to women who have received an invoice for maternity care and/or who have been told that they will be charged for NHS maternity care

Training and support

We provide training and support to
health professionals, advisers, community workers and volunteers supporting vulnerable migrant women during pregnancy and their child’s first year.

Prisoner's Families Helpline

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 13:46:21 UTC

The Prisoners’ Families Helpline can support you if you have a family member who is in contact with the criminal justice system in England and Wales. We provide advice and information on all aspects of the justice system, from what happens when a loved one is arrested, to visiting a prison, to preparing for release. Our team is made up of highly trained, skilled staff and volunteers with professional and personal experience of the criminal justice system. They can provide practical information, emotional support, and refer you to additional support should you need it. This is a free, confidential service - you do not have to give your name if you do not want to, and any information you do give us is kept confidential.

Helpline opening hours

For help or advice please contact the Helpline on 0808 808 2003 (Freephone: including most mobiles). The Helpline is open 9am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 10am – 3pm Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays (excluding Christmas Day & Boxing Day).

You can contact the Helpline team via email on info@prisonersfamilies.org. We aim to respond to emails within 3 working days. If you have urgent concerns about the safety of a prisoner, please report this to the prison safer custody team directly.

You can also contact the Helpline team through our webform. Simply fill out the form and our Helpline team will respond to your query within 3 working days.

Sky Badger

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:14:10 UTC

Are you looking for a grant? Help at school? Advice about finding support for your other children? Need an accessible family holiday? Want to find out what else is out there for your special needs or disabled child?

Then you've come to the right place!

Sky Badger is an award winning charity that finds help and adventure for disabled children and their families all over the UK. We do this by building bridges between disabled children and the charities and services available to help.

We find everything from disabled sports clubs to sibling groups to help at school to ‘make a wish’ charities and tell families about them though our website, social media platforms, videos, information packs and helpdesk. We help about 1,000 families every day and we are completely free to use.

Sky Badger is a UK wide charity providing help through our online platforms and helpdesk 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.
We support children and young people with all disabilities and special needs from Autism to eating disorders to Epilepsy.
We support siblings, parents, grandparents and friends.
We support teachers, medical staff and social care staff.
All Sky Badger services are free to use.
Children do not have to qualify to get our support.
Sky Badger also runs a disability awareness programme for primary schools.

https://skybadger.co.uk/

Happy Kids Holidays

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:16:49 UTC

happykidsholidays is a non profit making association (lio 1901) aimed at supporting families with children and teenagers with Autistic Spectrum Disorders who want to come on holiday in France.
The owners of all the properties or gites we feature have at least a basic understanding of ASD, Autism and Asperger Syndrome and are committed to trying to ensure your family has the best, most relaxing holiday possible, in surroundings that are suitable to your needs, and in a non-judgemental and supportive atmosphere. We can help you prepare for your holiday in a way that is appropriate for you. For holidays in certain locations, we can provide support while you are here. At all times, we promise that your questions will be listened to, taken seriously and answered honestly

For more information on happykidsholidays please spend some time browsing our website and property listings and download our information brochure.

happykidsholidays - holidays in france for people with asd, autism and asperger syndrome

Baby Sensory

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:22:39 UTC

Welcome to Baby Sensory - Sensory Classes For Babies

Baby Sensory, the multi-award winning programme for babies from birth to 13 months.

Founder of Baby Sensory, Hello Baby and Toddler Sense Dr Lin Day (PhD, M.Phil, PGCE, FETC, BSc, Dip Ed), is one of the UK’s leading parenting experts and a renowned feature writer and speaker within the field of childcare and education.

With over 40 years of practical experience working with parents and children and driven by the passion and commitment to offer the best possible service, Dr Lin Day developed Baby Sensory and Hello Baby to provide the support and knowledge necessary to lead baby learning and development forwards in the most important year of life (and ran classes herself for 9 years).

Hello Baby
Birth to 3 months

Baby Sensory
Birth to 13 months

Why attend one of our award-winning Baby Sensory classes?

⭐ An educational, interactive and developmental programme, which will help your baby learn and develop important skills.

⭐ Every class has been carefully designed, planned and researched by Dr Lin Day with you and your baby's needs in mind.

⭐Classes built on your baby's natural play-rest-play cycle to ensure they are not overstimulated.

⭐ An ideal place to meet new parents, ask questions, share ideas, experiences and memories together.

⭐ Highly trained Class Leaders who are all DBS checked.

⭐ Received the Gold Award accreditation with the Children's Activities Association (CAA) - peace of mind for parents.

The Campus Hydro Pool - Baby swimming lessons in Weston-super-Mare

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:25:26 UTC

Our Weston-super-Mare baby swimming lessons are run from a fantastic hydrotherapy pool in The Campus. Situated nearby to J21 of the M5, it is easy to get to from Burnham-on-Sea, Clevedon and Portishead.

Small, intimate lessons

It is a lovely warm hydrotherapy pool with a shallow stepped entry, which is perfect for young children. There is also a cafe on-site if you fancy a post-swim coffee or cake!

Try for free

Book up for a course of lessons and if after your first class you decide it’s not for you we offer a full refund to all new customers.

It’s a chance for you to meet the team and enjoy a Splash, Kick and Swim the Baby Squids way.

Library Session for all ages

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:29:22 UTC

Library events | North Somerset Council (n-somerset.gov.uk)

There are a variety of enrichment events hosted at our libraries throughout North Somerset. Check the link to see a list of what is coming soon.

Free magic teaching workshop for children

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:31:43 UTC

Duncan William is a professional magician. For the past 2 years he has been performing his virtual magic show. As a result of the pandemic and people struggling to keep their children entertained and focussed, he has made his 30 minute professionally produced magic teaching video free of charge for those people who get in touch.
Children who learn magic have shown to increase their levels of concentration, dexterity, self-esteem and self-confidence. In a time where social interaction is more a more limited due to the pandemic, this is a small gift from Duncan to keep the young people of our country focused, excited and developing those skills the schools would have played such an integral role in helping nurture.

Who to contact

Contact Name

Duncan William

Contact Position

Director

Telephone

07934 856 695

E-mail

magicduncan@gmail.com

Website

Duncan the magician website

Story time & Lego Club at Weston Library

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:34:10 UTC

Join us for Story time and Lego Club for a morning packed with rhymes, books and building blocks.

Every Saturday

Story time 10-10.30am

Lego Club: 10.30-11.30am

Story time for children aged 0-6 and a parent / carer.

Lego can be used by children 4+. Duplo is available for younger children. Children must be supervised by a parent/carer.

Places are limited so please phone or email the library to find out more details.

Tel: 01934 426 010

Email: weston.library@n-somerset.gov.uk

YMCA Daycamps

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:36:02 UTC

About Daycamps

Our fantastic Daycamps are the perfect settings for a fun-filled and memorable school holiday clubs for children in Reception – Year 6.* Both Barley Wood and Yew Trees are set within acres of Somerset scenery, offering the opportunity for children to explore the outdoors as well as develop new skills, and make lifelong friendships.

Our holiday programme includes a range of exciting themed multi-activity games designed around the outdoors and being active. Activities include; archery, climbing wall, canoeing, paddle boarding, Segways, multi-sport, baking, craft… and much more!

* Please note, children must have completed at least one term at primary school before being able to attend YMCA Daycamps.

YMCA Daycamps - YMCA Dulverton Group (ymca-dg.org)

Sea Cadets - Weston Super Mare

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:42:31 UTC

At Weston-Super-Mare we aim to give young people an experience that will help them grow into the person they want to be in a safe and friendly environment. Through various activities and adventures, we learn teamwork, respect, loyalty, self-confidence, commitment, self-discipline, honesty and how to be the best version of ourselves.

We offer a range of different activities from sailing, windsurfing and powerboating - to rock climbing, camping, and music - plus, so much more! At Weston-Super-Mare you are also able to gain different qualifications that you can take with you once you leave Sea Cadets!

"It makes me feel I can do things others can't. I don't want to stay in my house every day. I want to see how the world is."

Shaun, 13

https://www.sea-cadets.org/weston

Home Start

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:45:25 UTC

Weston Sunbeams

edwardpugh — 2023-09-29 14:52:04 UTC

Who are we?

We are a Charity originally set up by parents from Baytree School. We are a group of Volunteers who give up our time freely to run Weston Sunbeams.

What do we do?

Our aim is to offer help and support to members of our local community who have a variety of Learning Disabilities. The help we offer can range from advice and guidance to financial grants. We have very specific criteria about the people we are able to help (see below). We are legally bound by these criteria and however much we may empathise with someone’s cause, we do not have any legal authority to make exceptions to these criteria.

Who can Weston Sunbeams help? / What are Weston Sunbeam’s criteria to offer help?

The person requiring our help must be classed as having a “Learning Disability”. This includes people with Cerebral Palsy, Autism and a variety of other conditions that are categorised as “Learning Disabilities”. Learning Difficulties such as Dyslexia and Physical Disabilities are outside the legal scope of our remit.

We are legally bound by these criteria and however much we may empathise with someone’s cause, we do not have any legal authority to make exceptions to these criteria.

We can also only offer help to those people who live with postcode areas BS22, BS23, and BS24. We are legally bound by these criteria and we do not have any authority to make any exceptions. As such, we do require documentary evidence of residency in order to proceed, as well as in the later stages of the verification process.

What Grants can Weston sunbeams offer?

We can offer grants for things that are considered “needs” rather than wants, or wishes, but do not fall under the remit of any other funding, (eg DFG - Disabled Facilities Grant).

Examples of grants we have awarded in the past were for a specific child car seat, bespoke ear plugs, an adapted school vehicle, wheelchair ramps, a toddler wheelchair and many more.

We generally offer grants from £5 to £5000 however this can be increased in exceptional circumstances.

https://westonsunbeams.co.uk/

Weston Super-mare Food Bank

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 12:24:04 UTC

HOW TO GET HELP

If you need help from our foodbank there are a few simple steps to follow.

THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP IS TO GET A FOODBANK VOUCHER.

In order to provide the most appropriate help for the circumstances of your situation we work with local agencies. If they feel you are struggling to put food on the table, they will issue you with a foodbank voucher. The local agency can also provide long term support if needed to help address some of the issues behind the reasons for your crisis. Agencies we work with include: Citizens Advice, housing support officers, children’s centres, health visitors, social services and some local charities.

1. GET IN TOUCH WITH US.

If you call or email our foodbank we can talk through your situation and put you in touch with a relevant local agency. Citizens Advice is available in some of our centres without appointments (Wednesdays in North Street 11-2pm) and Fridays in Chaucer Road (10-12 – this will change to Tuesdays in January 2023).

2. ARRANGE A VISIT TO THE REFERRAL AGENCY.

They will discuss your situation and supply you with a foodbank voucher where appropriate.

If you can’t afford food, you can call 01934836200 to speak to Citizens Advice North Somerset, a referral agency partner of Weston-super-Mare Foodbank about getting a voucher. Please note this number is for people who do not have enough money for food – if you are a local organisation or charity that works with people who might need the food bank, please contact us directly.. If you have any questions, please contact the food bank on the number on our contact us page.

Alternatively contact the Trussell Trust Help through Hardship Helpline on 08082 082138

Help through Hardship is the free helpline for people struggling to afford the basics across England and Wales. The helpline is run by the Trussell Trust in partnership with Citizens Advice. Callers to the helpline receive income maximisation and benefits advice, signposting to other specialist advice (e.g. debt, housing, immigration), and a referral to a food bank, if needed.

How does it work?

If you’re struggling to afford the basics, ring the helpline on 08082 082138. It’s open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday and you can talk to one of their trained advisors in the privacy of your own home.

3. BRING YOUR FOODBANK VOUCHER TO YOUR NEAREST FOODBANK CENTRE.

You can find a list of our local centres and opening times here. When you arrive, we’ll welcome you and our trained volunteers will chat with you about your situation. We’ll also discuss any dietary needs you may have and exchange your foodbank voucher for a parcel of three days of emergency food. We’ll also help to support you in any other ways that we can. Our aim is to provide non-judgemental support at the point of crisis.

Highbridge Area Food Bank

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 12:26:28 UTC

We don’t think anyone in our community should have to face going hungry. That’s why we provide three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to us in crisis. We are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK.

Call our local helpline

Please call 03444 889 623 to speak to Citizens Advice Bridgwater, a referral partner of Highbridge Area Foodbank, who will be able to issue you with a food bank voucher if necessary.

https://highbridgearea.foodbank.org.uk/

Clevedon District Food Bank

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 12:33:43 UTC

HOW TO GET HELP

If you need help from our foodbank there are a few simple steps to follow.

THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP IS TO GET A FOODBANK VOUCHER.

1. GET IN TOUCH WITH US.

If you call or email our foodbank we can talk through your situation and put you in touch with a relevant local agency.

2. ARRANGE A VISIT TO THE REFERRAL AGENCY.

They will discuss your situation and supply you with a foodbank voucher where appropriate.

If you can’t afford food, you can call 0808 2082138 (freephone) to speak to a trained and independent Citizens Advice agent (Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm). Please note this number is for people who do not have enough money for food – if you are a local organisation or charity that works with people who might need the food bank, please contact us directly.

Alternatively, please call 0344 411 1445 to speak to Citizens Advice who will be able to issue you with a food bank voucher if necessary.

3. BRING YOUR FOODBANK VOUCHER TO YOUR NEAREST FOODBANK CENTRE.

You can find a list of our local centres and opening times here. When you arrive, we’ll welcome you with a warm drink and our trained volunteers will chat with you about your situation. We’ll also discuss any dietary needs you may have and exchange your foodbank voucher for a parcel of three days of emergency food. We’ll also help to support you in any other ways that we can. Most of our foodbank centres offer a cafe style environment and our aim is to provide non-judgemental support at the point of crisis.

If you have any further questions our FAQ’s page may help, or feel free to give us a call.

Weston Food Clubs

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 12:41:46 UTC

Cut your grocery bills…

Food clubs purchase surplus food that would otherwise go to waste, and members can buy a basketful of groceries at a fraction of its normal price.

Help reduce food waste…

When we shop in this way, we reduce food waste and our impact on the environment.

Food clubs are run by their members, placing power back in the hands of the community. By taking greater control over how we access our food we strengthen our relationships with the planet and each other.

Strengthening community…

Sourcing our food together fosters relationships built on care and co-operation.

https://westonfoodclubs.org/

Better Health North Somerset - General Advice

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 12:46:16 UTC

www.betterhealthns.co.uk

Send a message, we’ll get right back to you

Send enquiry

Call

01934 888 888

Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

Olio

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 12:52:49 UTC

OLIO is a free app allowing neighbours to offer perfectly good, unwanted food to each other. Everything shared on OLIO is for free.

Our Vision | Olio (olioapp.com)

Welfare provision scheme

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 12:58:57 UTC

The welfare provision scheme can give you short term financial help in a crisis. The amount of help that can be given will depend on your circumstances.

The scheme is designed to help if you are unable to meet your short-term needs in a crisis, or where you need help to maintain your independence within the community.

You will only be able to apply twice in any 12-month period.

What the welfare provision scheme covers

The welfare provision scheme could give you financial help for:

moving out of institutional care
furniture, white goods, beds and household equipment
a disaster such as a serious flood or fire in your home
gas and electricity
food
clothing and footwear
travel

These are only examples. If your situation is not mentioned it doesn’t mean you won’t get help.

Welfare provision scheme | North Somerset Council (n-somerset.gov.uk)

If you’re struggling to get food, local support is available.

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 13:09:37 UTC

We have compiled a list of food banks, community larders, lunch clubs and pantries in the area.

Please note that if you are accessing a food bank, you’ll need a voucher from your doctor, health visitor, social worker, family support worker or Citizens Advice North Somerset. The voucher is then exchanged at the food bank for a food parcel.

Cintre

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 13:41:36 UTC

Cintre is a dynamic support service tailored to adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Learning Difficulties and Mental Health issues. Its foremost aims are to support those in need to leading an independent life.

A cintre is a tool used by architects when building an arch. It supports the construction until the arch is capable of holding itself independently. In this way, we at Cintre, provide the necessary support to vulnerable people to maximise their independence and their ability to stand strong, resilient, and unaided.

With over 40 years of experience, Cintre is an established and trusted provider in Bristol, supporting and enabling people into independence. Cintre has its central office at the Greenway Business centre in Southmead, Residential Service in Clifton and Supported Living services in Kingswood and Weston Super Mare. More recently Cintre has added a new Respite Service based in North Somerset in an exciting partnership with Alliance Husing and North Somerset Council.

We provide enablement services to people with mental health issues, and conditions and behaviours that challenge. We put the people we support at the centre of all we do, building not only trust and confidence but progression through consistent support and interventions.

We know each person is different and each development plan is unique to what the client wants to achieve with their support. We celebrate all major steps along the journey of development, steps can be as simple as going shopping unaided for the first time, attending college or obtaining a job.

Brandon, Live Free

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 13:44:27 UTC

Brandon Trust was formed in 1994 by the merger of the Buttress Trust and the South Avon Housing Association. Today, we are an independent charity, supporting around 1,600 children, young people and adults with a learning disability, autism or both.

Around 1.5 million people in the UK have a learning disability. Despite significant improvements in care and support in the last 20 years, people with a learning disability still experience significant inequalities.

We’re striving to change this. We aim to enable the people we support to live their lives in the way they choose. To reach for their dreams and be all they can be. To live free.

We do that by providing individualised, high-quality support that is genuinely life-enhancing. This ranges from light-touch enabling services through to long-term residential care for people with complex needs. Headquartered in Bristol, we operate across the south of England and south Midlands, from London through Warwickshire to Cornwall. Our support is designed and delivered by a staff team of over 2,000 and underpinned by our values.

We are committed to working with the people we support, and those who surround them, to shape a future where every person with a learning disability will be empowered to live their life to its full potential.

www.brandontrust.org

Remap

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 13:47:51 UTC

REMAP is the UK’s only charity providing custom-made equipment, free of charge for people with disabilities.

Every year we help an average of 3,500 people with a disability, thanks in no small part to our network of over 65 volunteer-run branches, and our charity is governed by a Board of Trustees.

OUR VISION

At REMAP, our vision is to create a world where every single person with a disability can get the help they need, to be able to do what they want through custom-made equipment.

REMAP’s mission is to design and custom-make equipment to help people with disabilities live more independent lives.

We help to improve quality of life and increase independence for people with a disability, no matter their age.
We design and custom-make equipment for individuals because everyone’s needs are different.
We provide solutions to everyday problems when there is nothing commercially available.
Our network of skilled volunteers responds to thousands of requests for our help every year.
We provide our service completely free of charge.

https://remap.org.uk/

Rhyme and Sign

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 14:13:08 UTC

A fun opportunity to encourage speech, language and communication development whilst playing together.

Ages 0-5
Worle Library and Children's Centre
Thursdays 1.30-2.30pm
2 pound per family, cash only please.

No need to book

Dads Saturdays

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 14:16:00 UTC

Calling all Dads, Grandads, Male Carers and their Children.

First Saturday of Every Month 10am-12.
7th October, 4th November, 2nd December

Come and join us at Ashcombe Children's Centre for lots of fun activities.

Muddy Boots

edwardpugh — 2023-10-02 14:18:59 UTC

To provide an enviroment that welcomes all parents/carers and their children to learn together through experiences and play with a focus on outdoor play.

Nature trails, Bug hunts, Puddle play, Den building, Exploring outdoors

Worle Library and Children's Centre

Fridayys 9:30 - 11am

Ages 0-5s

2 Pound per family Cash only

Safe Haven

edwardpugh — 2023-10-04 09:50:42 UTC

The Safe Haven Crisis & Recovery Centre provides a safe space for people in acute emotional distress and is based in Weston-super-Mare’s town centre.

It is the first of its kind for North Somerset and was co-designed with input from people with experience of using local mental health services and clinicians. The service will be a mix of remote and face to face support, and will be able to support 12 people every evening.

The centre is open seven days a week, between 4pm and midnight (by appointment only. Last appointment is 11pm). Safe Haven is open to people over 16 who live in North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

If you have any questions please email refer.safehaven@nhs.net or by call us on 01934 313480.

To make a professional referral please complete our Professional referral form. To make self-referral please complete this form.

IVA

edwardpugh — 2023-10-04 11:31:50 UTC

An individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) is a formal and legally binding agreement between you and your creditors to pay back your debts over a period of time. This means it’s approved by the court and your creditors have to stick to it.

While you have an IVA your creditors should stop:

charging interest on your debts
chasing you to pay your debts

While you’re in an IVA you must:

make the agreed payments - this is usually a single monthly payment or a lump sum
let your IVA provider know if your income increases or you get any other money
not take out any new credit without permission, for example loans

You can include any amount of debt in your IVA. There are no minimum or maximum limits. The fees for an IVA are high so if your total debt is less than £10,000 an IVA might not be the best option.

The Other Place

edwardpugh — 2023-10-06 09:38:55 UTC

The Other Place is a collaborative space for community-led experimentation.

We launched as part of the Weston Community Hubs project and are currently funded by a grant from the government's Community Renewal Fund. Our space is managed by Race Equality North Somerset (RENS), supported by the Community Weston Partners and the Meadow Collective.

If you would like to explore a new idea, start a community conversation, or want to find oit more, please get in touch.

CAMHS

edwardpugh — 2023-10-13 09:18:53 UTC

We are a team of professionals covering North Somerset, based at Drove Road Child Development Centre (CDC) in Weston-super-Mare and The Barn in Clevedon. The service is provided by Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (AWP).

The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) includes the Children's Learning Disabilities Team and exists to promote the psychological health of the children and young people living in and around the area. It provides a range of services including multi-disciplinary assessment and treatment to children, young people and families who experience mental health problems. We work with people from 0-18, and up to 19 in special circumstances eg ADHD, ASD, Complex disability, Special Educational Needs.

To make a referral to this service please us a Single Point of Entry form. We have a system to rate cases on the basis of need in order to prioritise people. We are in regular contact with the Young People on our waiting list and caseload

Parents' Guide to CAMHS | Guide for Parents | YoungMinds

Guide to CAMHS | Mental Health Services | YoungMinds

Alternative Learning Providers

edwardpugh — 2023-10-16 09:24:37 UTC

This list is the same for North Somerset.

Alternative Learning Provider's offer tailored support to young people that have difficulty in mainstream environment's.

BASE

edwardpugh — 2023-10-23 08:40:35 UTC

BASE (Barnardos Against Sexual Exploitation) sits within Old Market Services and works with children and young people up to the age of 18 across Avon and Somerset providing open ended, trauma informed, relationship based support to young people experiencing sexual exploitation.

BASE Transitions 18-25 works with young people aged 18-25 who live in Bristol for up to 9 months, also providing trauma informed, relationship based support.

This support can also be commissioned on a case by case basis

Better Health NHS

edwardpugh — 2023-10-23 08:43:07 UTC

We are a public health service funded by your council. We’re here to support the health and wellbeing of residents in North Somerset. Our Healthy Lifestyles Advisors can support you to lose weight, eat well, get active, stop smoking with 1-1 and group support available over a duration of 12 weeks, take our Health MOT to check if you are eligible and register for support. Once you’ve registered we’ll be in touch.

Create Together

edwardpugh — 2023-10-23 08:50:15 UTC

Create Together are funded by North Somerset Council to run community art classes across North Somerset to aid people's wellbeing

Curo - Independent Living Services

edwardpugh — 2023-10-23 08:52:37 UTC

Our support service includes:

Reviewing finances and maximising income
Support with making appointments
Practical advice on repairs and arranging mobility equipment
Help with managing diaries/calendars
Support managing your medication
Support with arranging online shopping
Support with transport to and from medical appointments
Putting out recycling and rubbish
Advice about staying healthy and keeping active
Support with cupboard spring cleaning
Technical support with accessing online tools
Practical advice on keeping your home safe
Practical advice on fire safety within your home
Social interaction – a cup of tea and a chat
Understanding and accessing benefits
Pet walking with you

And much, much more…

Love Squared

edwardpugh — 2023-10-23 08:57:11 UTC

We provide imaginative, carefully curated and case managed services for children and families with SEMH needs. We believe that education and wellbeing are fundamentally linked, and that you can’t change long term outcomes without looking at issues holistically. We work with the whole family as much as possible and, for us, it’s about long-term change, not short term outcomes.

Working with children as vulnerable as we do, love and nurture are incredibly important factors despite these being phrases that other organisations may shy away from.

In addition, given the complexity of each of the cases, we believe that it is important to be creative and use imagination to develop programmes that are tailored to each child’s needs.

We have an incredibly dedicated team of practitioners who bring love and imagination to every session they undertake.

We recognise how brave our young people are in defining and pursuing their aspirations which often takes them outside of their comfort zone.

It is our responsibility to match this bravery through advocating for them within their own lives and advocating for SEMH awareness and support more generally.

Our Story - Love Squared

Community Learning Courses (Adults)

edwardpugh — 2023-10-23 11:38:13 UTC

If you are interested in a subject not currently listed please let us know, we are always open to new ideas.

If you organise, or are part of a group that would like a course personalised to your needs please do get in touch.

All participants will need to be minimum age 19, and live in North Somerset. Most will either be in receipt of certain means tested benefits or have qualifications less than a full level 2.

Get Active Passes

edwardpugh — 2023-10-23 13:16:16 UTC

Our Get Active Pass offers five free and five half price access to North Somerset Leisure Centres during off peak times.

If you have registered for our 12-week Get Active pathway of support from a Healthy Lifestyles Advisor, you could be eligible for a Get Active Pass. You will be required to attend weekly or fortnightly appointments with a Healthy Lifestyles Advisor.

For further information about Get Active support from a Healthy Lifestyles Advisor

Residents who already visit the leisure centres on a regular basis are not eligible for the Get Active Pass and if you have received a Get Active Pass in the previous two years you are not eligible for any further passes. Unfortunately we are unbale to re-issue passes that have not been used.

Under 18’s

Under 18’s are not eligible for Healthy Lifestyles Advisor support, however some local practitioners are able to refer children and young people for a Get Active Pass, providing they meet eligibility criteria. For further about this please email: getactive@n-somerset.gov.uk

The Mix

edwardpugh — 2023-10-24 10:55:22 UTC

The Mix is a support service for under 25s, available 365 days a year. They’re there to help you take on any challenge you’re facing – from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs.

You can talk to them on the phone, by email, online chat, and a crisis text line. They can also help you find support services in your local area.

1-2-1 Chat

Crisis Messenger

The Green House

edwardpugh — 2023-10-24 11:02:05 UTC

Evidence-based creative arts specialist support services

The Green House is a specialist support service for children, young people and families living in Avon and Somerset who have experienced sexual abuse.

We have been providing therapy for adult survivors of sexual abuse since the 1970s. We were formerly known as the Avon Sexual Abuse Centre and in 2010 created a children’s service to support families.

In 2019 we moved to St Agnes Lodge, our new purpose-built therapy and family support service centre in St Pauls, Bristol. Between 2018-2022 we saw an increase in referrals to our children’s service. Across Avon & Somerset it is estimated that 19,000 children and young people will experience sexual abuse before the age of 16.

In January 2022, we decided to focus solely on supporting families so that children could have access to timely, specialist support services that were right for them.

Southmead Project

edwardpugh — 2023-10-24 11:04:53 UTC

The Southmead Project provides free counselling and support

for survivors of abuse and addiction across Bristol and surrounding areas.

Counselling

One-to-one counselling

for survivors of

abuse and trauma.

Nexus Counselling

One-to-one counselling

for survivors of abuse

who have an addiction.

Groups

Groups include our

Family Support Group and Pre-Counselling Group.

Community Based Projects

Community based projects include our

Art of Survivors and

Active Recovery projects.

Brook

edwardpugh — 2023-10-24 11:09:19 UTC

ASK BROOK... A GUIDE TO SEXUAL HEALTH & WELLBEING

This year millions of people in the UK will experience attacks on their sexual and reproductive rights. These attacks are shaped by, and reinforce stigma.

Brook is a charity supporting people with their sexual health and wellbeing.

We offer a range of services to support our mission of helping people to live healthier lives.

We believe excellent sexual health, mental health and wellbeing is a right. We will continue to fight for a society that welcomes everyone and trusts people to make decisions about their health, their bodies and their identities.

Junction 21

edwardpugh — 2023-10-24 11:29:12 UTC

Junction 21 mentoring and advocacy project is a young person’s support project managed by us.

The project delivers a range of youth services including:

mentoring
independent visiting
advocacy
missing children’s interviews
acting as an Appropriate Adult

We provide support for young people aged 10 to 21 who are vulnerable (age range depends on the service). This includes:

being placed in local authority care or leaving care
being at risk of offending
being at risk of anti-social behaviour
being at risk of poor educational achievement
being unable to control your emotions

Our interventions vary from short term pieces of advocacy work to long term independent visiting.

Junction 21 Mentoring and Advocacy Project | North Somerset Council (n-somerset.gov.uk )

Music Minds Matter

edwardpugh — 2023-10-24 11:56:14 UTC

Always have mental health support in your pocket.

Whatever you’re going through right now, you can contact Music Minds Matter on 0808 802 8008

Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Music Minds Matter is Help Musicians' dedicated mental health support line and service for the whole UK music community..

If you work in music and are struggling to cope, or know someone who is, talk to us. It doesn’t have to be a crisis, or about music. We’re here to listen, support and help at any time.

OCD Action

edwardpugh — 2023-10-24 12:02:11 UTC

Our vision is for a society where OCD is better understood and diagnosed quickly, where appropriate treatment options are open and accessible, where support and information are readily available and where nobody feels ashamed to ask for help – it’s time to act.

OCD Action

Helpline 0300 636 5478

Mental Health Awareness Group (Portishead)

edwardpugh — 2023-10-24 12:16:18 UTC

We offer a friendly, welcoming space for carers who are supporting the wellbeing and mental health of young people and we support each other by sharing experiences and information in an informal but confidential setting.
Feel free to come along! Your wellbeing is important too!

Are you looking for support but can't get to our evening sessions? Are you in need of a break and a listening ear?
Rethink MHAP offers Walk & Talk daytime sessions and for further information please email: mhap@rethink org or call Catherine on 07568967933

Local Young Person's Centre's

edwardpugh — 2023-10-25 08:40:35 UTC

Young person's centres aim to improve outcomes for young children and their families, and reduce inequalities:

child development and school readiness - supporting personal, social and emotional development, physical development and communication and language from pre-birth to age 5, so children develop as confident and curious learners and are able to take full advantage of the learning opportunities presented to them in school.
parenting aspirations and parenting skills - building on strengths and supporting aspirations, so that parents and carers are able to give their child the best start in life.
child and family health and life chances - promoting good physical and mental health for both children and their family; safeguarding; supporting parents to improve the skills that enable them to access education, training and employment; and addressing risk factors so that children and their families are safe, free from poverty and able to improve both their immediate wellbeing and their future life chances.

Email: childrenscentre@n-somerset.gov.uk

Facebook: www.facebook.co/NorthSomersetCC

About children's centres | North Somerset Online Directory
(n-somerset.gov.uk)

Reframe Counselling

edwardpugh — 2023-10-25 08:51:04 UTC

Reframe Counselling Service (Wanted Not Wasted, WOW)

A free counselling service for children and young adults aged 5-18 yrs who live in the Weston Super Mare

Who to contact

Contact Name

Helen Roy

Contact Position

WOW Coordinator

Telephone

07588 512 621

E-mail

wantednotwasted@gmail.com

Website

Wanted Not Wasted website

Where to go

Name

WOW Shop

Address

No 3

St Andrews Parade, Bournville

Weston Super Mare

Avon

North Somerset

Postcode

BS23 3SS

Time / Date Details

When is it on

Counselling takes place mostly on Wednesday and Thursdays 3-6 pm.

Session Information

Wednesdays and Thursdays 3-6pm

School Nursing Service

edwardpugh — 2023-10-25 10:05:37 UTC

School Nursing Service are an experienced, professional, and qualified team made up of School Health Nurses and Support Workers. The School Nursing team provide services to all children, young people (5-19+ years) and their families in North Somerset. Through delivery of the Healthy Child Programme and working in partnership with children, families and professionals, the service promotes physical, mental, and emotional health and wellbeing. They work closely with partner agencies and schools to provide education and support to children, young people, and their carers to protect them from harm and support them in making healthy lifestyle choices.

Telephone: 01934 419339 this is operated from 08:30am-17:00pm Monday-Friday.

Email: nsomerset.schoolnurses@nhs.net

FEES Fund

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 10:04:16 UTC

FEES Fund provides opportunities for children and young people's aspirations to grow and develop

About FEES Fund

We are a registered charity awarding grants to organisations and individuals so children and young people can take part in extracurricular activities. We aim to part remove financial barriers,

support skills development,

build confidence, resilience and raise aspirations.

Love Fi - Fi's legacy

Fiona Braidwood known as Fi lived life to the full. She loved learning and is the inspiration for FEES Fund. Her life was cut short when she died in March 2016 in a car accident close to home aged 17. Out of such sadness a momentum built for something positive to help keep her sparkle and energy present into the future.

Household Support Fund

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 10:48:56 UTC

Financial support is available for people in North Somerset who are struggling with their household finances.

We have been awarded a £2.6m grant from the Government's Household Support Fund to give to households in need by the end of March 2024. This funding is provided by the Department for Work and Pensions.

The grant money is being made available to support those most in need to help with food, energy, water and other essential living needs.

Household Support Fund | North Somerset Council (n-somerset.gov.uk )

Home to School Transport

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 11:26:41 UTC

About home to school transport

We provide help with transport for children who meet these conditions:

are aged up to eight years and live further than two miles from their nearest school by the shortest walking route
are aged eight and above and live further than three miles from their nearest school by the shortest walking route
need to use a route that has been classed as dangerous
have certain medical conditions, disabilities, or a statement of complex needs.

NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS)

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 11:29:32 UTC

If you have a low income, you may be able to get help with NHS costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS).

The scheme covers:

You can apply for the scheme as long as your savings, investments or property (not including where you live) do not exceed the capital limit.

In England, the limit is:

£23,250 for people who live permanently in a care home (from October 2025 the limit will rise to £100,000)
£16,000 for everyone else

Any help you're entitled to is also available to your partner and any dependant young people.

Free sim cards and mobile data from North Somerset libraries

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 11:34:48 UTC

If you are over 18 and from a low-income household, you may qualify for a free SIM card and mobile data vouchers. You must meet at least one of the following criteria:

has no access or insufficient access to the internet at home
has no or insufficient access to the internet when away from home
can’t afford their existing monthly contract or top-up

More details can be found on our Free SIM cards and mobile data new article. You can also email libraries@n-somerset.gov.uk or telephone 01934 426 834.

Breathing Space Scheme

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 13:01:41 UTC

Breathing Space is a new scheme that gives people temporary protection from most types of debt collection while they take action to get on top of their debts.

You can apply through a debt adviser for sixty days’ Breathing Space. You must continue to engage with your debt adviser and not take out any new borrowing over £500 in this time. You’ll also have to continue to make certain types of payments, including ongoing housing costs, utility bills, and taxes.

Interest and fees will be paused on debts included in Breathing Space while these conditions are met.

You can only apply for Breathing Space once in a 12-month period.

Standard breathing space

A standard breathing space is available to any client with problem debt.

It gives them legal protections from creditor action for up to 60 days. The protections include pausing most enforcement action and contact from creditors and freezing most interest and charges on their debts.

Mental health crisis breathing space

A mental health crisis breathing space is only available to a client who is receiving mental health crisis treatment.

West Somerset Youth Trust Fund

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 13:07:36 UTC

This programme is now closed. We expect it to re-open in February 2023.

Grants up to £300 for educational enrichment activities.

The West Somerset Youth Trust Fund offers grants to encourage young people aged 14 – 25 to enrich their education.

Grants are usually awarded for up to 25% of the total cost of a trip or activity, with a maximum grant size of £300. A larger percentage of the costs will be considered if the young person, or their parents/carers, are in receipt of means-tested benefits.

Grants can be used to pay for course or event fees, travel costs, equipment or materials. Previous grants have been awarded to attend international scouting jamborees, gap year trips, work experience placements, Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, and workshops at the National Youth Theatre.

Who can apply for money?

You can apply if you

live in West Somerset or have close ties to the area (this excludes Taunton and the former area of Taunton Deane)
are aged between 14 – 25
are able to provide the details of a suitable referee (e.g. a tutor)
are able to provide evidence of means-tested benefits (if applicable)

Surviving Winter Grants

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 13:16:32 UTC

Surviving Winter grants are available for older people living in Somerset, who are unable to adequately heat their homes. Our Surviving Winter charity partners this year** include:

AGE UK Somerset (Countywide)

Centre for Sustainable Energy (Countywide)

Citizens Advice

Community Council for Somerset (Countywide)

Health Connections Mendip

Live West

MHA Communities

SSAFA Somerset (Countywide)

West Somerset Green Forum

Community Council Somerset - Crisis Fund

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 13:20:33 UTC

CCS Agents work with people who find themselves in situations no-one should be in – without food, heating, basic essentials, or at a life-changing moment in their lives, but poverty is preventing them from moving forward.

People in crisis.

Examples of previous funding -

To buy 2 mattress protectors for a carer who was supporting their loved one with nighttime incontinence
To support a family with funeral costs after their teenage son died in a road accident
To buy children’s clothes for a family who had recently lost Dad to cancer
To buy half a tank of oil for a lady with a chronic health condition who was struggling to heat her home

Support for Mortgage Interest

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 13:25:38 UTC

If you’re a homeowner, you might be able to get help towards interest payments on:

your mortgage
loans you’ve taken out for certain repairs and improvements to your home

This help is called Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI).

This guide is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg) and easy read format.

It’s paid as a loan, which you’ll need to repay with interest when you sell or transfer ownership of your home (unless you’re moving the loan to another property).

You usually need to be getting, or treated as getting, a qualifying benefit to get SMI.

There’s no guarantee that you’ll get SMI for a mortgage or loan you take out.

What you cannot use SMI for

SMI cannot help you pay:

the amount you borrowed - only the interest on your mortgage
anything towards insurance policies you have
missed mortgage payments (arrears)

Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 13:36:43 UTC

Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership (SASP) will be running their Happy Healthy Holidays programme across Somerset between 19-23 December.

Funding has been made available by Somerset Council to enable local groups to provide holiday activities including food to children eligible for free school meals in Somerset.

To find out more, visit Happy Healthy Holiday Programme.

Sure Start Maternity Grant

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 13:38:14 UTC

You could get a one-off payment of £500 to help towards the costs of having a child. This is known as a Sure Start Maternity Grant

You usually qualify for the grant if both of the following apply:

you’re expecting your first child, or you’re expecting a multiple birth (such as twins) and have children already
you or your partner already get certain benefits

You must claim the grant within 11 weeks of the baby’s due date or within 6 months after the baby’s birth.

You do not have to pay the grant back and it will not affect your other benefits or tax credits.

Family Fund Mobility Support

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 13:40:43 UTC

The Family Fund Mobility Support programme is aimed at families raising a disabled or seriously ill child under three years old with significant mobility needs.

Through the programme, we can provide a car-leasing package for a limited period to make transport for your child easier and more practical, so you can take your child to medical appointments, or even just get around day-to-day. If eligible for the programme, Family Fund will cover the costs of the monthly rental instalments for the duration of the lease vehicle.

Family Fund

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 13:42:54 UTC

We are the UK's largest grant-making charity for families raising a disabled or seriously ill child, on a low income.

Family Fund believes that families raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people should have the same choices, quality of life, opportunities and aspirations as wider families.

Rehab Recovery - Drug and Alchohol

edwardpugh — 2023-10-26 13:46:10 UTC

A Compassionate & Inclusive Approach to Evidence-Based Treatment

Get the best alcohol rehab advice available to ensure you and those you love get the help you need to be free of addiction. Call for expert advice on what is best for your needs; our advisors take into account your condition, circumstances, budget and all other factors.

Rehab Recovery - Drug & Alcohol Rehab Treatment in the UK (rehab-recovery.co.uk )

Fridge of free stuff

edwardpugh — 2023-11-06 12:26:07 UTC

Weston-super-Mare's

Community Fridge @ Hub Zero

Visit us

Tuesday: 11am - 2pm

Thursday: 11am - 2pm

Friday: 11am - 2pm

Saturday 12pm - 2pm

Closed Monday & Wednesday

Please do not queue outside the unit before opening times

The Sovereign, High Street, BS23 1HL

communityfridgewsm@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/HubZeroWSM

Family Time Passes

edwardpugh — 2023-11-08 13:27:09 UTC

The SENDCAS Team understand the importance of Family Time and appreciate the barriers that many families who have children with additional needs face. We are excited to offer our new family time passes.

With support from Supporting Families Funding, families in North Somerset with a child or young person with a disability or additional need (who is on the Disabled Children’s Register) can access our Family Passes.

Family Lives wellbeing.

edwardpugh — 2023-11-13 15:22:55 UTC

Family Lives provides targeted early intervention and crisis support to families who are struggling. The issues we support families with include family breakdown, challenging relationships and behaviour, debt, and emotional and mental wellbeing.

We know the difference being able to access appropriate, timely support can make to families in crisis, knowing there is someone at the end of the phone who will listen to them. And we know the longer term impact of early intervention with families, such as through the ParentChild+ programme, which supports the home-learning environment, and our family befriending programmes.

There for you

edwardpugh — 2023-11-13 15:40:30 UTC

There For You Advisory Service is a non profit organisation supporting individuals and families being investigated or involved with their local Authority Children's Services Department, as well as providing additional family support. We also offer additional support services aimed specifically at Children and Young People.

Education template letters

edwardpugh — 2023-11-30 11:26:54 UTC

You can download and make changes to our model letters to fit your situation. You should read the relevant section of our website about each topic first to ensure you understand how and when to use these letters. If you are making a complaint, make sure you follow the local authority or school’s complaints procedure, which might mean you have to enter the model wording into an online form.

Springboard Fund

edwardpugh — 2023-12-08 14:53:17 UTC

In response to the increased cost of living and rent liability, you may be able to apply for support from our Springboard Fund. This fund aims to support those who are experiencing financial difficulties, struggling to sustain their tenancy and to tackle the rising cost of living.

The fund can also provide one-off payments to help cover the costs of practical items such as energy, white goods etc.

The Springboard Fund is available to Alliance Homes customers who are seeking to engage in long-term debt solutions to sustain their tenancies.

Apps

edwardpugh — 2024-01-25 11:47:29 UTC

Common sense . org

Net nanny

Websense

Family Link