Need to talk to someone?
If you're having a tough time but don't want to talk to a friend or family member, these organisations offer free, confidential support and a listening ear.
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Connection 24/7 NHS mental health helpline for Dorset: 0800 652 0190
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Samaritans 24/7 helpline: 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
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Shout 24/7 text service: Text SHOUT to 85258
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Burrough Harmony Centre, Bridport (Assembly Rooms, Gundry Lane) - a friendly, welcoming, informal service offering peer support, information, signposting and a variety of enjoyable activities to local people who are living with a mental health problem - call 07597 379290 or email ​harmonyinfo@harmonydropin.org.uk
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Community Front Room drop-in sessions (at Burrough Harmony Centre, above) - opening times can vary, visit Access Mental Health for up to date opening times or call 07385 290804 for more information
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Steps 2 Wellbeing NHS service - self-refer to access support and psychological therapies
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Dorset Mind - befriending and counselling services across Dorset
Practical advice
When you're worried about something - whether it's work, money or your personal life - it can feel overwhelming. However, there are organisations out there that can help:
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Money worries: ​
- Bridport and District Citizens Advice - South Street, Bridport, call 0800 144 8848 or email advice@bridport-cab.org.uk
- Step Change Debt charity - free and impartial debt advice via a phone line: 0800 138 1111 (Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-4pm)
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Money Helper - free and impartial help and guidance backed by the UK government
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National Debt Line - debt advice from the Money Advice Trust, includes web chat and a phone line 0808 808 4000 (Mon-Fri 9am-8pm and Sat 9:30am-1pm
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Support for farmers: Farming Community Network and RABI
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Relationships: Relate Dorset and South Wiltshire
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Grief support: Dorset Open Door - call 01305 361 361 or email dhc.dorsetopendoor@nhs.net
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Housing: First Point Dorset
Wellbeing support
We all need a reminder to look after ourselves at times. The organisations and websites below can help you to focus on your wellbeing.
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You can also contact the West Dorset social prescribing team for wellbeing support. They connect people to community groups and services that can provide practical and emotional support for issues including social isolation, emotional wellbeing, healthy lifestyle choices, long term health conditions, bereavement and loss of confidence. Contact them directly by calling 01308 428943 or email jcsocialprescribing@dorsetgp.nhs.uk. You can also contact them via your GP if preferred
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Nature-based wellbeing activities and ideas:
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Beaminster Ramblers - a friendly group of walkers who meet every two weeks
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Picnics In The Park - useful resource of nature-based activities across Dorset
- Natural Choices - wellbeing activities including nature walks, mindfulness and more
- Stepping Into Nature - nature-based wellbeing activities
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Every Mind Matters - NHS website offering practical tips and expert advice on mental health and wellbeing
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Live Well Dorset - free health and wellness coaching
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Samaritans Self Help app - track your mood and get recommendations for things you can do to feel better
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Five ways to wellbeing - advice from Mind about the five steps to better wellbeing
Groups and social opportunities
Looking to get active, expand your social circle or find local activities? These websites can help to signpost you in the right direction:
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West Dorset events guide - courtesy of The Marshwood Vale Magazine
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Fitness and activity classes near you - search the Live Well Dorset database