How we help

Found the sessions very helpful. Like the approach to teaching skills to help combat and prevent low mood.

It has been a big plus for me at this time to have so much professional support.

I thought the CBT practitioner and content was second to none – bravo. I think so many could benefit from the course

Using this service has highlighted how essential it is for people.
The appointments (particularly EMDR) have helped to draw up and discuss rooted traumatic memories. **** is an experienced, empathetic and patient listener and he’d explained the process well throughout. I feel that this method of therapy has supported me.

**** is an exceptional psychotherapist who goes above and beyond

I think the two people who did the coarse were fantastic. Very calm, informative and organised. They conducted the group very well and were able to teach me some useful skills to my situation. Also they were very sympathetic

I have been so grateful and impressed with this service. *** and CBT exceeded my expectations. 🙂

I can’t thank **** enough for the support and care. It has been a tough journey but with ****’s support it has enabled me to claim my life back.

I have really enjoyed working with XXX and she has been so patient and helpful throughout the whole process. I loved the tasks that she set me and how we was very receptive to resolving some of the difficulties I encountered with undertaking the sessions. XX is amazing!

Treatment was initial consultation then opted for 6 week CBT – course was pretty good. XXX excellent but mainly due to continuity. Would have been good if there was discussion with the group as it was all over chat on Teams and no one put cameras on. Recognise this is difficult as people may not want to identify/be seen as someone with mental health difficulty.

Every time I don’t therapy at the Richmond Wellbeing Service I have always come out with the tools that I need to better deal with my anxiety and to understand why I feel this way and what help and coping mechanism I can get to deal with this. I received excellent help both on my social anxiety course and OCD course. I cannot thank you enough.

Although I have gone through a difficult time post natally, having rapid access to support has been really valuable. I am very grateful for the support.

I was really relieved at the speed I was able to get the CBT, and that I was able to get 1:1. XX was compassionate, understanding and tailored the sessions to my situation really well. I got from the sessions what I had hoped to gain and as a result am feeling so much better. The resources and XX’s reassurance & realistic attitude to what I could achieve between sessions really helped encourage the process rather than overwhelm. I am so thankful that I had XX for these sessions. Thank you!

I found all the tools and techniques taught helpful. My patterns of negative self talk have deep roots and when I have not been able to manage my triggers and subsequent anxiety adequately, I can spiral rapidly back to low mood and overwhelming depression. I will benefit more from 1:1 therapy but appreciate the access I’ve had to the group sessions.

It gave a very good of techniques and tools

I had very relaxing and good experience and the lady was really understanding and did her best to make me feel better and I appreciate the help that made for me with other department that is going to start soon (employment Specialist). Thanks very much

XXXX is a wonderful EMDR clinician. She explains things clearly, listens & guides beautifully. She put me at ease & is really easy to be around & talk to. I felt really comfortable & safe with her. She is a true professional & the EMDR has been amazingly positive. She has made such a difference to my life, for which I am so grateful. Thanks so much, I am indebted to you.

I have greatly valued xxx’s support over the past few weeks. He has been highly sensitive and adaptive to my situation, listening carefully and reading between the lines. XXX has constructively challenged my thinking and helped me shape plans to rebuild the foundations of my confidence. Thanks to his guidance, I’ve reengaged with old hobbies and found enjoyable and worthwhile activities this autumn that support my wellbeing. I am hopeful this journey will give me greater perspective on my career goals in the long run. I am very grateful to both XXX and the wider service.

I found the Bump to Birth 90 minute online talking therapy workshop hosted by **** and **** really helpful, giving me the tools and understanding to take control of my anxiety and worries during my pregnancy and while I managed without my medication for the first time in years. Each session was structured really well and explained clearly, always allowing time for questions and interaction with the group. When anyone in the group shared their thoughts **** and **** used language that confirmed they had ˜heard’ what the person had shared and gave positive feedback and suggestions to help, giving a ˜safe’ space for people to share vulnerable thoughts and experiences.
Overall I highly recommend the workshop and was seeing positive results by the third session and a huge decline in my anxiety by the end of the workshop that I felt comfortable that I didn’t need further help.

The employment advisor I was assigned **** was amazing. Her compassion, insight and support have been instrumental in helping me identify options for my next steps – a fabulous support for what I was going through. **** my therapist was brilliant too – kind, supportive and able to guide and encourage me through the programme – a wonderful first encounter with CBT.

This was a helpful introductory experience. While some methods taught during the course have not been particularly helpful yet, the way issues were addressed by the administrator and the comfort I got from a greater understanding of OCD provided by the course was helpful. It was also good to hear from others who have shared similar experiences.

It is extremely valuable to have someone who listens to you without judgment and guides you during difficult times. I feel humbled by this because I know the NHS is under a lot of strain currently; my issues are not exactly life-threatening.

I was very sceptical at the beginning about whether the quality of this service was going to be any good. I’ve definitely had an excellent experience with a very insightful snd skilful therapist.

The CBT and MCBT courses that I attended have helped me tremendously in getting on with my daily life, as a carer for my son, in a positive way and with purpose. It has provided me with strategies, plans and tools for a positive, purposeful future.
**** on the CBT and **** on the MCBT have been great facilitators with exceptional skills and I am ever so grateful for their recommendations and support provided. It has been life changing. Thank you

From my initial telephone consultations with the lovely and attentive **** to my weekly sessions with ****, I have been offered an excellent, well-thought out and accessible course of CBT. Crucially, this has felt tailored to my particular individual needs. **** adapted accordingly whenever personal setbacks took place, drawing on such moments as opportunities for growth and development. She addressed my various issues with some inventive behaviour experiments and was always able to provide practical examples and ideas alongside any theory we discussed. **** listened to me and I felt she truly cared about my progress. She was at all times attentive, insightful, approachable and well equipped to deal with an array of issues relating to social anxiety. I felt safe and secure in her hands and learnt a great deal, which has equipped me with some new skills to use going forward. This has been an incredibly beneficial, positive and productive experience. I feel privileged to have had access to such a wonderful service.

Very good meditation **** is, I achieved the goal of meditation as i tried before and could not do it. I like doing in on a screen group as it doesn’t make you isolated and alone with your worries the same as me seeing another councillor weekly having a safe place, which without all the various support i’ve had has helped me be able to communicate with others they way i could never before in 17 years. I’m so grateful i can continue the meditation service with **** as i’m not alone again and helps me devekop my meditation skills as it was the third week of the course, i realised i was meditating. I’ve talked about my health plan moving forward and believe this has had a positive impact on my moods, calming me more when i feel in crisis. Thank you.

My therapist ****, helped me understand my depression cycle and categorise it into words which reflects my way of living and survival. It’s been a very difficult year for me as it’s an evolving beginning of a new life & i’ve had comfort not doing it alone as **** has been with me for 16 weeks & I have found parts of it, so challenging. I’ve learnt so much about my anxiety & depression mental health which will benefit me moving forward in small steps but also the recognition and my acceptance that this is something I have to live with, as I can’t change the law & will be fearful but in my new life this represents a smaller percentage & awareness of my depressed cycle I must try and change for a better future & learn how to meditate & calm myself to help towards this goal of self awareness & healing.

I cannot say enough about how important the emdr treatment I’ve received at the Richmond Wellbeing Service has been. I was in a worse state than I initially knew or believed when I started the sessions. I was aware I had PTSD but not to how heavy a level and **** has been an incredible support and knowledgeable therapist in my recovery. I do not believe I would be sitting here still with the full understanding of my mental injury as well as physical without ****’s treatment and this wellbeing service. I am beyond thankful.

I think this was the right type of therapy at this time and it’s really helped. I feel like I’ve been really listened to and kept in mind which is really important. **** has remembered important dates and I feel she has really connected with my families story. I’ve also received helped on an issue that I’ve not spoken about before. I was worried about judgement but I didn’t receive any and I feel so much better for discussing it.

It’s been a very difficult journey for me, I am trying hard, I think I will succeed with the sincere help of the your therapists

I found the Bump to Birth 90 minute online talking therapy workshop ….. really helpful, giving me the tools and understanding to take control of my anxiety and worries during my pregnancy and while I managed without my medication for the first time in years. Each session was structured really well and explained clearly, always allowing time for questions and interaction with the group. When anyone in the group shared their thoughts ***** and **** used language that confirmed they had â€˜heard’ what the person had shared and gave positive feedback and suggestions to help, giving a â€˜safe’ space for people to share vulnerable thoughts and experiences.
Overall I highly recommend the workshop and was seeing positive results by the third session and a huge decline in my anxiety by the end of the workshop that I felt comfortable that I didn’t need further help.

I am immensely grateful for the speed of the initial response to my request for help, the subsequent gentle and calming assessment by therapist **** and my inclusion very quickly on the CBT course for people living with long term health conditions. This course was carefully structured and the group well-managed by ***** and I appreciate being sent a copy of the course booklet which I can keep for reference. I have mentioned my very positive experience of the Wellbeing Service to friends, some of whom are struggling and who are also now being helped. Thank you everyone for providing a secure safety net.

I feel stronger and in control more now thanks to my therapist. SHE HAS BEEN A MASSIVE HELP TO ME.

I was very happy with all aspects of the service, especially the care and compassion shown by the therapist as well as the techniques taught to overcome my low mood and to prevent / deal with future relapses. Thank you so much.

I was very sceptical at the beginning about whether the quality of this service was going to be any good. I’ve definitely had an excellent experience with a very insightful snd skilful therapist.

I cannot say enough about how important the emdr treatment I’ve received at the Richmond Wellbeing Service has been. I was in a worse state than I initially knew or believed when I started the sessions. I was aware I had PTSD but not to how heavy a level and ***** has been an incredible support and knowledgeable therapist in my recovery. I do not believe I would be sitting here still with the full understanding of my mental injury as well as physical without ****’s treatment and this wellbeing service. I am beyond thankful.

I am immensely grateful for the speed of the initial response to my request for help, the subsequent gentle and calming assessment by therapist and my inclusion very quickly on the CBT course for people living with long term health conditions. This course was carefully structured and the group well-managed by **** and I appreciate being sent a copy of the course booklet which I can keep for reference. I have mentioned my very positive experience of the Wellbeing Service to friends, some of whom are struggling and who are also now being helped. Thank you everyone for providing a secure safety net.

Therapy has helped heal my mental anxieties and helped me cope with difficult feelings and depression. I am certainly in a much better place now than before starting therapy. I know I will still face difficult situations, especially where my health is concerned, but I now feel better able to cope with change. I can now see a future whereas before I could only see darkness and no hope.

the mindfulness course was really helpful at giving me better understanding what i need to go forward. **** was really good and a lovely person to have run the course.

The ideas presented to me were subtle and interesting My therapist helped me to understand the difference between CBT and more conventional therapies My improvement was gradual as I learned how to absorb the techniques into my everyday life I am now going forward with my life with greater confidence

Excellent and so glad I done it and pushed myself to complete all tasks and feel so much better for it now! So thank you

Sam has been so brilliant. We’ve had a lovely supportive group and I feel I’m coming away with lots of things to equip me in future with my mental health. It was my first time doing CBT so it was all new to me and very helpful to learn. I mentioned to the group in the last session that I really feel I’ve turned a corner.

This help came at a critical time when I was facing a serious set of external challenges (professional redundancy, the threat of homelessness, relationship challenges). These sessions not only provided additional tools to the ones I was already using but most importantly provided a regular weekly anchor on which I could focus no matter how stressed or anxious my life was.

I am really happy that I completed this mindfulness course as I have seen the benefits of it already. I did struggle with the homework as it required a lot of time and during the school term I found this difficult. ***** was very understanding and encouraged me to keep going. I am not using everything I learnt at the moment, but I am using some of the shorter practices which have had a big impact. Thank you!

I think for me the thing that was super helpful was around the understanding the things about checking and reassurance seeking and what it was doing. That helped me learn something early on that was really useful. I found early on using the values based approach was really helpful. The values-based approach helped me so I think maybe it would be good to do more of that as well.

The “Coping with Long-COVID” course has been fantastic. It has helped me to turn around the Long-COVID problems I was encountering and get me onto a path towards a better recovery. Several aspects of the course are life skills that will help me in the future, well beyond Long-COVID. I fell exceptionally lucky to have been referred to this course.

I just wanted to drop you an email as it’s just over a year since I completed the Social Anxiety Group you ran.I honestly can’t thank you enough for running the group. It has been a genuine life changer!

I have taken on a lot more responsibility at work, now finding myself in a leadership position where I’m constantly facing the situations that have held me back for so long. I’ve performed a number of presentations to large groups of people with an insignificant amount of anxiety and without my old behaviour of avoidance. While I still experience anxiety from time to time, it has been significantly muted by the skills and exposure I have gained.

I’ve also taken on line management, something I previously avoided due to my anxiety. It’s something I even volunteered to do and not something that was forced onto me and I’m genuinely loving it!

Excellent. A life saver.

*** has been amazing, supported throughout my journey. So was **** from the previous course. I still have unresolved issues but hopefully after tomorrow’s chat we can address those. Thank you to all the therapists.

I have been on three different CBT courses, and am hoping to start a 4th on mindfulness in January. Each course has built on the one before it and all of the therapists have been so helpful and supportive. My last session was with ****, who was in equal measure supportive and challenging – and a brilliant group leader. It was a small group (three females) after many others dropped out, but **** was fantastic in making us feel engaged and really guiding us to make positive changes.

My experience with RWS has been extremely positive. The courses i have taken part in have been very helpful. The staff have always been very professional. I have felt able to share thoughts and feelings which at times can be difficult but have been listened to and made to feel more comfortable to do so.

I think Richmond Wellbeing is an amazing service!

The therapist showed understanding and knowledge. I enjoyed her delivery style, making the sessions thoughtful, helpful and engaging. I would recommend the service.

Help and advice was delivered professionally and thoughtfully, the tools provided from the service are of a great benefit and I feel confident to better manage my anxiety from here on.

My theraphist was a good listener and I could feel her enthusiasm to help me and on her work. I did enjhoy and find very helpful the programme.For sure it is up to us / me to revise it to get the most out of it.

The therapist was extremely good, she gave me good tools and techniques, I felt motivated at times. It’s also very good that she has suggested I have more therapy/counselling and she is helping with finding a suitable counselling service.

During this Time, i have found this support so so so helpful to me! i’ve learnt a lot about myself and ways to manage. i was really nervous about doing something like this but its really helped me and opened up my eyes to the support thats available during these covid-19 times. The support group has been great as well as the CBT. its a shame you cannot do one without the other. Everyone i have met has been lovely, all therapists have be super supportive, helpful and made me feel comfortable. i think CBT could be more interactive than what it was even if that means the course being carried out over a more weeks, i just found that sometimes it would be hard to focus and if it was a little more interactive it would help stay focused. So grateful to you all for providing this service.

So very grateful to *** & ****. I have been treated with care and encouragement and equipped in better ways to cope. This is a real life saving service you offer I am so thankful to have received help from these therapists. Thank you

I can’t believe **** is a trainee, she was professional and skilled at all times. I felt involved in every aspect of the therapy and have skills to use in the future. Of course I have to keep on using them and I still have anxieties and mood fluctuations. However I have found this 121 CBT more focused and useful than the groups, though they too were useful. I’m very grateful to have had these sessions.

My experience has been life changing.
***** had been amazing from day 1.
She is so professional yet so heart warming and made me feel at ease the whole time. I really do hope we cross paths someday because she has changed my life for the better. X

Due to the multiple lockdowns during my treatment there were some in person elements that were not possible, which is an important aspect of treating social anxiety. Despite this I was surprised with the amount of progress I achieved during therapy, I saw a noticeable decrease in my anxiety levels at work and in some social situations. Although I still have some work to do on addressing anxiety reaction certain situations I feel that I have the tools to move forward.

A brilliant service from lovely people!! Thank you very much.

The Mindfulness course …. is perfectly positioned to give individuals the tools to help themselves adjust to factors that are not within their control to influence. I found it hugely useful and am impressed that the NHS has finally moved from a Structured CBT approach to a people-centred Cognitive approach, providing the necessary guidance to those looking for a sustained framework to move forward in life. I have the utmost respect for the NHS which is one of the UK’s greatest services and I hope the Pandemic will offer a future that is better funded, valued by the entire population and able to run as a macro organisation, while allowing for micro flexibility on a local level. I have the privilege of volunteering with vaccinations in Putney and thoroughly enjoy working with Clinicians and Clerical alike, their commitment and ‘heart’ for their patients is hugely humbling. I would like to say thank you to Richmond Wellbeing Services for embracing this aspect of service and healing, ably led by ****** and supported by a number of other committed therapists and other specialists. Thank you. Best wishes

This experience has been life changing. I’ve learnt skills and strategies that have changed my perception on my own health. I feel much better equipped to deal with health anxiety. Before I would spiral and would feel out of control. Whereas now, although it is tiring, I am able to deal with these thoughts rationally and clearly. Thank you for providing this excellent service.

I found the group setting really helpful both as a safe place to practice the skills learnt during the course and because it allowed the members of the group to share their experiences and help each other.

Very helpful in providing empowerment at abolishing the situation and reasons as to how itâ€™s affecting me.the use of pictorial graphs is very usefull and visual reminder of what has been achieved. On a separate note the door closers to various rooms need adjusting to stop the doors from banging!

It was an overall, pretty good experience. My therapist was really quite nice and helpful, and listened to what I had to say. Early on, I had a bit less confidence in them, but gained more throughout the sessions. The person I spoke to initially, with the referral, was also quite helpful and understanding. They took a lot of time to listen to me, for which I was really grateful. I was helped quite a lot overall.

Great service, really impressed with the level of support – have learnt some great tools to help me in the future – thank you all very much

In my experience,I had learn about my problems and had learn how to deal with my situation. The 5 areas model,Present mind focus and Categorising worries are very good technique and exercising helped me with stress and also I find meditation maid me calm and understanding lives more.

My experience of the service has been great. The same day that I self-referred I was called and booked in for triage. The clinician who triaged me was very helpful, thorough and knew exactly what she was doing which was really useful for me. I then had CBT with ***** and she was really helpful and supportive throughout. She was training but it felt like she knew exactly what she was doing the entire time and I really felt listened to and supported. I have seen a massive improvement in my anxiety and low mood.

The entire mental health care ‘package’ I have been offered by you guys has been nothing short of brilliant. Thank you

Very positive experience. The therapists were extremely engaging, knowledgeable and helpful.

It helped me with every aspect of my life not just my mental state . I felt so confident that I quit my job and pursued my dream job as a portrait artist . Your techniques were simple but ineffective although I didn’t need all of them the ones I did use were great so thank u .

I would like to personally thank my therapist for everything she has done over the past few months. The consultation sessions have been amazing and a key part in my treatment and recovery. She has offered really practical advice in these sessions and has been incredibly empathetic and caring in her style and approach.

XX was the perfect therapist allowing all of us in the group to speak and contribute. She would pick up on and remember little things that each of us would mention and help tailor the treatment to those. I’ve gained a much more in-depth understanding of the issues I face and feel confident in moving forward on my own.

This has been a helpful journey. Thank you!

I feel the service was really helpful. XXXX was great at taking the time to listen to everyone. She helped me realise the signs of depression and that everyone suffers from it differently. Hopefully with the techniques she gave I will be able to put them in to practice in day to day life.

I wanted to thank everyone at Richmond Wellbeing Service, for taking my condition seriously & treat me as an individual esp. the General Anxiety group therapy and the Health Anxiety group therapy’s tutors and therapists. More specifically I wanted to thank my own therapist XXXX for being such a positive, professional & non judgmental person. She is very young yet very mature and professional. I hope for everyone to have a therapist like her. I wish I could use her skills as a therapist for the rest of my life, but unfortunately she doesn’t have a private practice. She made me fight my anxiety& not let my fears decide for me. Thank you so much.

The best thing was to see others with similar problems in a neutral and non-judging environment

The service was thorough and really helped me. I understand my PTSD and was given the time and space to work through the exercises and guidance given. It has made a huge impact on my quality of life. Thank you

Having never before used this type of service I felt it really has helped me to understand how much my physical and mental health were linked . I now realise that my physical symptoms were causing symptoms of anxiety which I didn’t realise and as the sessions went on this has really helped me to identify these.Thank you XXXX for your help. I hope to be able to continue to use the advice given.

I am so great full for all the help and support I have received in beginning to understand and tackle my OCD, everyone was very friendly and welcoming, and helped me work at a pace that was comfortable for me and always gave me opportunity to ask questions about anything I was unclear about. XXX is one of the best health professionals I have ever met.

I wasn’t optimistic if I’m honest but it really helped me change my mindset. It gave me other ways of thinking about certain issues and allowed me to not constantly blame myself or put too much pressure upon my shoulders.

From application to my first assessment, it was a quick process and all in all, I would recommend it to others who need help.

I feel better in myself and confidence in doing the silvercloud course.

I am a veteran and I was struggling with a number of issues related to PTSD and found this service invaluable. It helped to identify my critical areas for development and gave me the tools to lead the happier and healthier life in the future. My sincere thanks to XXXX.

It was great being with like minded people. Making me feel I’m not alone.

XXX was excellent in every way. Professional, understanding, kind, encouraging. Brilliant.

The service helped me to address my problems, look at them from a different perspective, and to find solutions which helped me to overcome some of the difficulties that I was facing.

The service is amazing – offering so much help in different aspects of my life. Thank you!

I have been very pleased with the efficiency to help me get treatment as quickly as possible as well as having been given some valuable tools to help me get better. It has been a very positive experience and I hope that I will continue to learn more ways to get myself back to normal.

I couldn’t believe how quickly I got a phone call, within 3 or 4 days of my self-referral, and an appointment straight away. My experience with RWS has been really good. I was heard quite quickly!

Digital therapy was a big help to me as I suffer with Chronic back pain and am unable to walk at times. Thank you for helping me and in a short space of time too!

I am so grateful for Digital Therapy. I don’t know what I would have done without them!

I wish I had known about this option (online digital therapy) sooner… it was a very convenient way for me to receive treatment

I found the whole thing very helpful. From the first call – everyone was very nice. I thought the waiting list would be a lot longer and the sessions were much more helpful than I expected. I thought I was beyond help but I’ve been really pleased with the whole service

I have just managed to locate the online feedback form and wanted to provide some feedback on the support we received from xxxx. xxxx was the most gifted therapist we could have wished for. Despite my wife and I coming from very different cultural backgrounds, xxxx was able to connect and understand both of us. She provided incredible support, understanding and encouragement as well as practical exercises to improve communication skills. The issues in our marriage were very deep seated and while they are not fully resolved we made a great deal of progress. I am certain we would not be together today were it not for her intervention. Both of us and our two children can never repay xxx and Richmond Well-being Service for the support we received. We shall remain forever grateful.

“The techniques made sense although sometimes difficult to follow at the time (in such a short space of time). Liked the recap at the beginning of each session. Setting homework is a good way to engage with the techniques.”

“The course was really informative and I have found it very useful. I have found it hard to find time to act on everything so far but will do. The course leaders were very well informed and very helpful.”

“Everything covered was very helpful and relevant, and there is a good atmosphere within the group – it’s welcoming and non-pressured. It’s been very helpful for me, and I’m so grateful that opportunities like this exist.”

“I liked the size of the group, it wasn’t too big making it feel less intimidating. I liked the delivery of the course and information. The staff are kind and approachable.”

“They are really lovely. I found that I could relate to most of the models, especially the negative thinking behaviours. The idea of having to do homework each week was very helpful and made me really reflect on what I had learned and how I behaved. It helps me to understand that it is not a quick fix and it takes time to get better. Would like to thank my two helpers very much, they have help me understand so much about my depression.”

“Low key and peaceful delivery meant that I could reflect on it during the class. Also open door policy was reassuring. Low pressure is good. Written materials are well laid out and structured. Excellent and amazing that there is no charge.”

“The facilitators were excellent and very knowledgeable. Good resources and many great practical ideas and useful tips.”

“Sharing of experience and tips to help manage the side effects of worry. Reassurance that there are others who feel the same and that there are techniques that will help.”

“…the therapists were brilliant; you helped to create a calm environment. You were both very skilful and emphasised techniques, whilst allowing the opportunity for feedback and questions. I was initially unsure about group work but the treatment was delivered in a safe encouraging environment, and I felt I received personalised care, and that you genuinely cared how I was doing. You both worked well together, and I am very impressed by the service and the care I received. There was a lot covered in the course that this was covered well, and it never felt rushed.”

“…Just wanted to say a HUGE thank you for making the course so successful for me. It’s been a brilliant course, as it’s all been so manageable and helped me on the road to recovery through a greater understanding of my symptoms and behaviours and some excellent strategies to overcome them.”

“…I was so reluctant to come on the course, but you were so welcoming, friendly, encouraging and supportive that Ive actually looked forward to coming each week. You are truly inspiring and caring…I will miss you!”

“I have found the CBT to be extremely useful for me on my journey with PND (Post Natal Depression). My therapist has been very patient and has tailored the course to suit what I needed as an individual. I have found that the discussions that we have had and the solution focused activities have helped me to develop an amazing bond with my child, access everyday life and develop relationships with those around me.”

Abuse and domestic violence

Child Protection Team: Richmond Social Services
If you or a child is in immediate danger, you should always phone 999.
If you have concerns about a child, contact the Child Protection specialist team on the numbers below.

Address:
42 York Street
Twickenham
Middlesex
TW1 3BW

Tel: 020 8891 7969
Out of hours: 0208 744 2442
Website: www.richmond.gov.uk

Richmond: One Stop Shop
The One Stop Shop is a weekly drop-in for anyone who has experienced domestic abuse in Richmond upon Thames. It is run by Refuge with funding from the Community Safety Partnership.

Address:
St John the Divine Church Hall
Kew Road
Richmond
TW9 2NA

Tel: 020 8943 8188
Website: www.richmond.gov.uk
Opening times: Every Thursdays from 10am to 1pm

Richmond Council Domestic Abuse and Hate Crime
Address:
Domestic Abuse and Hate Crime Coordinator
Community Safety Partnership
3rd Floor,
44 York Street
Twickenham.
TW1 3BZ

Tel: 020 8831 6198
Website: www.richmond.gov.uk/domestic_abuse

Women’s Aid and Refuge
Run in partnership between women’s aid and refuge. It is a national service for women experiencing domestic violence, their family, friends, colleagues and others calling on their behalf. The helpline can give support, help and information over the telephone, wherever the caller might be in the country. The helpline is staffed 24 hours a day by fully trained female helpline support workers and volunteers. All calls are completely confidential. Translation facilities for callers whose first language is not English and a service for callers who are deaf or hard of hearing are available.

Freephone 24 hr National domestic violence helpline:
Tel: 0808 2000 247
Website: www.womensaid.org.uk
Email: helpline@womensaid.org.uk
Please note we can not respond to emails by telephone as safety may be compromised.
If you wish to speak to somebody please call the number above.

Rape Crisis England and Wales
Rape crisis is a feminist organisation that exists to promote the needs of women and girls who have experienced sexual violence, to improve services to them and to work towards the elimination of sexual violence.

Rape crisis acknowledges all forms of sexual violence, including but not restricted to: rape, sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse, sexual harassment, rape within marriage/relationship, forced marriage, so-called honour-based violence , female genital mutilation, trafficking, sexual exploitation, grooming and ritual abuse, irrespective of whether the violence is from known or unknown perpetrator(s).

Rape crisis England and wales all women and girls to be free from the fear and experience of sexual violence.

Freephone helpline: 0808 8029999
Website: www.rapecrisis.org.uk
Email: support@cambridgerapecrisis.co.uk
Opening times: Everyday from 12pm to 2.30pm – 7pm to 9.30pm

Support for Men who are experiencing domestic abuse
The Men’s Advice Line is a confidential helpline for any man experiencing domestic violence and abuse from a partner (or ex-partner). It is run by a team of skilled professionals offering practical advice, information and emotional support to male victims of domestic violence, as well as to concerned friends and family and frontline workers.

Their focus is to increase the safety of men experiencing domestic violence (and the safety of their children) and help them reduce the risk.
Freephone helpline: 0808 801 0327
Website: www.mensadviceline.org.uk
Opening times: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Women and Girls Network
This free, women-only and survivor-led service offers a holistic response to women and girls who have experienced, or are at risk of, gendered violence. The aim of their work is to create a safe, non-judgmental and non-directive space in which women and girls can explore their experiences, and know that they will be listened to and believed.

Freephone helpline: 0808 801 0660
Website: https://www.wgn.org.uk/
Email: advice@wgn.org.uk
Opening times: Phones answered between 10am and 4pm, Monday to Friday, and Wednesday evenings from 6pm-9pm

Advocacy, debt and legal advice

POhWER: Richmond upon Thames
Free confidential and independent advocacy services to help people make choices about their lives, to understand their rights, to be treated as equals and be heard.
Tel: 0300 456 2370
Website: www.pohwer.net
Email: pohwer@pohwer.net

Richmond Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)
The Citizens Advice Bureau service is an independent, free, confidential and impartial service which provides advice to everybody regardless of race, gender, disability or sexuality. Provide advice and support on Housing, Benefits, Employment, Debt, Consumer and other issues.
Tel: 020 8712 7800 (New clients)
Website: www.rcabs.org/get-advice
Opening times: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday – 10am to12.30pm Tuesday evenings – 5.30pm to 7.30pm.
Please refer to the website for further information

Ruils
Ruils is a local charity supporting individuals irrespective of age, health condition, impairment or capacity to live at home and in their community. Ruils provides services such as advice and advocacy, befriending, financial advice, training and recruitment, work support forum and volunteering.

Address:
Ruils – Disability Action and Advice Centre (DAAC)
4 Waldegrave Road (A309)
Teddington
TW11 8HT
Tel: 020 8831 6083
Website: www.ruils.co.uk
E-mail: info@ruils.co.uk

Ethnic Minorities Advocacy Group (EMAG)
EMAG, the Ethnic Minorities Advocacy Group, is an independent voluntary organisation working for equality and fairness in the Black and Ethnic Minority communities living and working in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.

Address:
111a Kneller Road
Whilton
Twickenham
TW2 7DT
Tel: 020 8893 9000
Website: www.emaguk.org
Email: info@emaguk.org

StepChange Debt Charity
StepChange provides free, confidential and expert debt advice and money guidance. They will recommend the best solution or service for your circumstances and support you while you deal with your money worries.

Tel: 0800 138 1111 Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm and Saturday 8am to 4pm
Website: www.stepchange.org/

Bereavement service

Cruse Bereavement Care
Cruse Bereavement Care offer bereavement support, advice and information to children, young people and adults living in the borough of Richmond upon Thames. It is a free and confidential service provided by trained volunteers. Support is available either individually or in a small group.

24 hour answerphone – Richmond area: 07495 777 401
National Helpline: 0808 808 1677

Website: http://www.cruse.org.uk/get-support/contact-local-branch

Email: Richmond-upon-thamesbranch@cruse.org.uk
Postal address (only):
Unit 0.1
One Victoria Villas
Richmond
Surrey
TW9 2GW

Bereavement Advice Centre
The Bereavement Advice Centre provides practical support and advice to people residing in the UK on what they need to do after a death.
Helpline: 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday except bank holidays.
Answer-machine and other times: 0800 634 9494

Website: www.bereavementadvice.org

Email: info@bereavementadvice.org

space2grieve
space2grieve offers free, personal, confidential, one-to-one bereavement support to anyone living in Richmond Borough. Their bereavement support specialists will listen, understand, and support you as you find your way forward. You don’t need a referral – you can contact them directly to discuss free support sessions via phone, Zoom, or in person.
24 hour answerphone –0751 937 6363

Website: https://space2grieve.org.uk/

Email: support@space2grieve.org.uk

Disability services

MeToo & Co
MeToo & Co is a parent-led charity covering the Borough of Richmond-upon-Thames and surrounding areas, which aims to help children and young people with additional needs and their families. The additional needs of the children include autistic spectrum disorder, Down’s syndrome, hearing or visual impairment, cerebral palsy, developmental delay and rare or undiagnosed syndromes. They offer opportunities for the children and their siblings to play and develop, and provide information and support for their families and carers.

Address:
The Crossway Centre
306 Richmond Road
Twickenham TW1 2PD
Tel: 07946 64603
Website: www.metooandco.org.uk
Email: info@metooandco.org.uk

Richmond Aid
Richmond AID is a charity run by and for disabled people in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and surrounding areas. Richmond Aid provides and supports disabled people, families, carers and professionals.

Address:
Disability Action and Advice Centre (DAAC)
4 Waldegrave Road (A309)
Teddington
TW11 8HT

Tel: 020 8831 6080
Website: www.richmondaid.org.uk
Email: info@richmond.org.uk

Ruils: Disability Action and Advice Centre (DAAC)
Ruils is a local charity supporting individuals irrespective of age, health condition, impairment or capacity to live at home and in their community. Ruils provides services such as advice and advocacy, befriending, financial advice, training and recruitment, work support forum and volunteering.

Address:
Ruils Disability Action and Advice Centre (DAAC)
4 Waldegrave Road (A309)
Teddington
TW11 8HT

Tel: 020 8831 6083
Website: www.ruils.co.uk
E-mail: info@ruils.co.uk

Drugs, alcohol and substance misuse

Addiction Support and Care Agency (ASCA) – Richmond
ASCA supports individuals, families and the community to overcome alcohol and drug misuse through both prevention and treatment. ASCA offers a range of interventions including counselling, group work and holistic therapies in our two sites at Richmond and Kingston. ASCA employs qualified and experienced staff to work with clients who are concerned about their alcohol and drug use, who want to cut down or stop drinking or who are concerned about someone else’s drinking or drug use. ASCA also support any underlying issues, for example, depression, bereavement, anxiety, self-esteem and relationship difficulties.

Address:
233 Lower Mortlake Road
Richmond
Surrey
TW9 2LL

Tel: 0208 940 1160
Website: www.addictionsupport.co.uk
Email: info@addictionsupport.co.uk
Opening times: Tuesday – 10am to 7pm, Wednesday – 10am to 8pm, Thursday – 10am to 4pm

RCDAS
RCDAS (Richmond Community Drug and Alcohol Service) is a confidential service, open for all Richmond residents who may be experiencing difficulties with any drugs or alcohol. RCDAS also welcomes and supports friends and family of drug and alcohol users who may be affected by their substance misuse. You can speak with an experienced drugs/ alcohol worker to offer information, advice and support.

Address:
Unit 2
ILEX House
94 Holly Road
Twickenham
TW1 4HF

Tel:0203 228 3020
Cost: Free

FRANK
FRANK is a national helpline offering advice and information about drugs and they are able to act as a referral service. Open 24 hours, 7 days per week. The service is for users and for concerned others of any age.

24 Hour Helpline: 0800 77 66 00
Text Service: Text 82111
Website: www.talktofrank.com
Email: frank@talktofrank.com
Opening times: 24 hours 7 days per week
Costs: Free

KCA counselling
Providing a menu of choices for service users, KCA’s adult substance misuse services support people aged eighteen and over into recovery by tackling both treatment needs and wider social reintegration issues including housing, employment and education. Services offered include: one to one therapy, couple therapy, family therapy and group therapy.

Address:
12 King Street
Richmond
Surrey
TW9 1ND

Tel: 0208 948 7259
Website: www.kca.org.uk
Email: Richmond@kca.org.uk
Opening times: Monday and Tuesday – 9am to 8pm, Wednesday to Friday – 9am to 5pm
Costs: Free

Healthy living

Richmond Health Walks
The Richmond Health Walks are one of a range of free healthy lifestyles services on offer for local residents as part the Richmond Lifestyles Service, commissioned by the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.

The walks are free for all to join. There is no need to pre-register, just turn up at the starting point fifteen minutes before the start time and introduce yourself to the walk leader. No special equipment needed – just wear sturdy, comfortable footwear.

Website: https://www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/walkfinder/london/richmond-health-walks

Housing and homelessness support

SPEAR
SPEAR is a charity working with homeless people in and around Richmond and Merton. Since 1987, we have offered services to thousands of homeless and vulnerable people, successfully transforming lives and supporting many of our service users to the point that they have achieved total independence.

SPEAR is not just about homelessness and housing – our aim is to support clients to live independently, reach their aspirations and live a fulfilling life.

Outreach Team Telephone, 9:30 to 5:00 Mon to Fri: 020 8404 1481
Website: www.spearlondon.org

Mother/Father/Baby and Perinatal Mental Health

Introductory video on perinatal mental health– https://perinatalpositivity.org/

Pre and post-natal depression advice and support: http://www.pandasfoundation.org.uk Helpline: 0808 196 1776

The Maternal Mental Health Alliance – http://maternalmentalhealthalliance.org/

Partners to Parents – provides practical tips for new parents and parents-to-be, to help you support one another and reduce your chance of depression and anxiety. http://www.partnerstoparents.org/the-website

Home-Start is a local community network of trained volunteers and expert support helping families with young children www.home-start.org.uk

Find an instant support network ready and willing to share help, advice and a shoulder if you need it. https://mummysocial.com/

Hoop makes it easy to find and book kids activities from newborn to 11 years old. Search “Hoop” where you get your apps

Gingerbread – charity supporting single parent families to live secure, happy and fulfilling lives https://www.gingerbread.org.uk/

Brazelton Center UK – Giving new born babies a voice by supporting parents in understanding their unique communication https://www.brazelton.co.uk/

Breastfeeding Network – https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk

Mush. App for meeting other mums and mums to be www.letsmush.com

Mumming. Set up to empower work-at-home mums to achieve the right balance in their lives https://www.mumming.org/

Beyond Blue – ‘Dadvice’ advice for new Dads https://healthyfamilies.beyondblue.org.au/pregnancy-and-new-parents/dadvice-for-new-dads

Dads Matter UK provides support for dads worried about or suffering from Depression, Anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). http://www.dadsmatteruk.org/

National Childbirth Trust page for Dads with PND https://www.nct.org.uk/parenting/postnatal-depression-dads

NHS website with info regarding Pregnancy, birth and beyond for dads and partners https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/dad-to-be-pregnant-partner/

Family Lives Family Lives is a charity helping parents to deal with the changes that are a constant part of family life https://www.familylives.org.uk/

Smiling Mind – Mindfulness website https://www.smilingmind.com.au/

Maternal OCD – http://www.maternalocd.org

Family Action transforms lives by providing practical, emotional and financial support to those who are experiencing poverty, disadvantage and social isolation across the country. www.family-action.org.uk”

Bumps – Medication in pregnancy http://medicinesinpregnancy.org/

Sleep Regression Help – https://www.moshisleep.com/sleep-regression/

Older peoples services

Age UK Richmond upon Thames
Age UK Richmond upon Thames is an independent charity which works across the borough to improve the quality of life for older people and to enhance their status and influence. Age UK Richmond offers a wide range of services including a Telephone Helpline, Handyperson Service and social centres in Barnes, Twickenham and Whitton.

Address:
Head Office
Suite 301, 3rd Floor
Parkway House
Sheen Lane
East Sheen
London SW14 8LS
Tel: 0845 601 1149

Advice Helpline: 0845 600 1090
Website: www.ageuk.org.uk
Email: info@ageukrichmond.org.uk

Elleray Hall Social Club
Elleray Hall Social Club are based in the heart of Teddington where the over sixties come to meet and chat with friends over tea or coffee and enjoy a good home cooked lunch. The club offer a range of activities, entertainment and outings, raffle, musical entertainment, hairdressing salon and health and beauty treatment room. Saturday club held every first Saturday of the month, except January and August. Transport available within a certain catchment area.

Address:
Elleray Hall
Elleray Road
Teddington
Middlesex
TW11 OHG

Tel: 020 8977 0549
Website: www.ellerayhall.org
Email: info@ellerayhall.org
Opening times: Monday to Friday – 9.30am to 4pm, 1st Saturday of the month – 9.30am to 4pm
Cost: £25 per year for membership; day membership for £1

Racism, harassment, bullying and crime

Victim Support
Victim Support is an independent charity, here to help anyone affected by crimes, who are not only victims and witnesses, but their friends, family and any other people involved. You can contact Victim Support whether or not you reported the crime to the police. You can receive support without the involvement of the criminal justice system if you wish to do so, and Victim Support won’t contact them about you unless we feel someone is at risk. Here just to support you.

Tel: 0845 303 0900
Website: www.victimsupport.org.uk

Childline
ChildLine provides help to children and young people residing in the UK. You can contact ChildLine to talk about anything – no problem is too big or too small. Problems include family relationships, friendships, homelessness and running away, bullying, cyber bullying, racism, peer pressure, school, physical, sexual and emotional abuse, self-harm, eating problems, sex, sexual health, sexual orientation, transgender identity, mental health, disability, online and mobile safety, crime and the law, anxiety, depression and loneliness.
Tel: 0800 1111
Website: www.childline.org.uk

Equality Advisory and Support Service
The EASS Helpline advises and assists individuals on issues relating to equality and human rights, across England, Scotland and Wales.

Tel: 0808 800 0082
Website: www.equalityadvisoryservice.com

Relationships, conflict resolution and mediation

Relate
Relate are the UK’s largest provider of relationship support and every year help over a million people of all ages, backgrounds and sexual orientations to strengthen their relationships.

Telephone: 0300 100 1234
Website: www.relate.org.uk

Self harm

Women’s Self Injury Helpline
An independent, confidential and anonymous service. The helpline is run by women for women and will support anyone who identifies as a woman who wants to talk about self-harm and/or self-injury.

Helpline: 0808 800 8088
Website: www.selfinjurysupport.org.uk

Service Users’ Network (S.U.N.) Project
The S.U.N. aims to reduce common experiences of isolation, being overwhelmed by feelings and problems, or feeling stuck in a pattern of behaviour. It has been designed for service users and in consultation with them. The S.U.N. is for people who have longstanding emotional and behavioural problems (personality disorder), and may feel they do not get adequate support from mainstream services. The S.U.N. offer an opportunity for you to meet others who may have had similar problems. They help you get information about and access support from services such as housing, benefits and employment. As a member you will be able to give and receive support from other members, learn new skills and find better ways to cope with experiences. You will be able to get health education and information about other types of therapies and will be part of a supportive community network.

Address:
S.U.N. Project
Team Office
The S.U.N. Building 3
Springfield University Hospital
61 Glenburnie Road
London SW17 7DJ

Tel: 020 3513 5558

Sexuality and LGBTQ

Broken Rainbow UK
Broken Rainbow is a Domestic Violence charity service which provides confidential support to all members of the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) communities, their family, friends, and agencies supporting them. Broken Rainbow Helpline provide confidential information, advice and support, help you create your safety plan, explore options around housing, legal advice, counselling and local support groups, tell you about your local LGBT friendly services and discuss the possibility of reporting to the Police.

Free Helpline: 0800 999 5428
Website: www.brokenrainbow.org.uk
Email: help@brokenrainbow.org.uk
Opening times: Monday and Thursday – 10am to 8pm. Tuesday and Wednesday – 10am to 5pm.

ELOP
ELOP is a holistic lesbian and gay centre that offers a range of social, emotional and support services to LGBTQ people, including counselling and young people’s services.
Website: www.elop.org

Carers, social and community groups

Richmond Carers Centre
Richmond Carers Centre is a local Charity supporting unpaid adult and young carers living in or caring for someone living in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. Richmond Carers Centre offers free, confidential advice and support.

Address:
Richmond Carers Centre
5 Briar Road
Twickenham
Middlesex
TW2 6RB

Tel: 020 8867 2380
Website: www.richmondcarers.org
Email: info@richmondcarers.org

Carers Hub Service Richmond upon Thames
The Carers Hub Service is led by Richmond Carers Centre which is a charity based organisation providing support for carers living in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.

The Carers Hub is a group of 9 local charities working together to provide services to unpaid carers in the borough. Led by Richmond Carers Centre, services include:

Information and advice
Emotional support
Financial and debt advice
Short breaks and leisure programmes
Training and workshops for carers
Opportunities for carer engagement
Carers awareness training for professionals

Please visit the website www.richmondchs.org for provider contact details.

Address:
Richmond Carers Centre
5 Briar Road
Twickenham
Middlesex
TW2 6RB

Tel: 020 8867 2380
Website: www.richmondchs.org

Richmond upon Thames: Council for Voluntary Service (CVS)
Richmond CVS is open to charitable, voluntary and community group which provides support, advice and training in relation to all aspects of charity, community and voluntary activity in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. Richmond CVS is the infrastructure support body for the hundreds of organisations that make up the voluntary and community sector in our Borough.

Address:
Richmond Council for Voluntary Service
Citibase
20 Mortlake High Street
Mortlake
Surrey
SW14 8JN

Tel: 020 3178 8785
Website: www.richmondcvs.org.uk
Email: action@richmondcvs.org.uk

Address:
MeToo & Co
The Crossway Centre
306 Richmond Road
Twickenham TW1 2PD
Tel: 07946 646033

Website: www.metooandco.org.uk
Email: info@metooandco.org.uk

Carers in Mind
Carers in Mind is a specialist service for families and friends supporting someone with a severe mental health problem. They provide a range of support services including support groups, social activities, complementary therapies and one-to-one advice and guidance. They also provide information and training to assist carers to be more effective and feel more confident in their role.

Address:
Richmond Borough Mind
Richmond Community Healthcare Hamlet
Kew Foot Road
Richmond
TW9 2TE

Tel: 020 8940 7384

Address:
S.U.N. Project
Team Office
The S.U.N. Building 3
Springfield University Hospital
61 Glenburnie Road
London SW17 7DJ

Tel: 020 3513 5558

Talking therapies, counselling (inc young people's services)

Samaritans
24 hour national telephone helpline offers emotional support for anyone in crisis. Offers a listening and befriending service to people who are isolated, feel in despair or who are suicidal. Callers are put through without delay to their nearest unengaged branch. Call is charged at the local rate. Luton Branch opens daily for drop in visits. Phone any time or call in during vesting hours.

Tel: 0845 790 9090 – 24 hour helpline
Opening times: 10am to 10pm everyday for visits

Richmond Borough Mind
Richmond Borough Mind is rooted in the local community and exists to meet local mental health needs. Mind offer low cost counselling, wellbeing centres (referral only in Richmond Royal Hospital, and drop-in at Mind n Mortlake), peer-led groups in the community, an Ecotherapy project at our allotment, and a programme of Carers Support.

Address:
Richmond Healthcare Hamlet
Kew Foot Road
Richmond
Surrey
TW9 2TE

Tel: 020 3513 3404
Website: www.rbmind.org
Email: info@rbmind.org
Opening times: Monday to Friday – 9am to 5pm

Off The Record Twickenham (OTR) is a registered charity providing the only drop-in counselling, information and sexual health service for young people aged 11–24 who live, work or study in the Borough of Richmond Upon Thames. The team helps improve the emotional and mental well-being of over 1,500 young people a year at a time when they are experiencing unprecedented levels of stress and anxiety. Their vision is for every young person in the borough to possess the skills and confidence to overcome life’s challenges.

2 Church Street, Twickenham, TW1 3NJ
Website: www.otrtwickenham.com

Sexual Health Walk-In Service Monday 3.00pm to 5.00pm
Counselling Service & Walk-in Information
Tuesday 2.00pm to 8.00pm
Wednesday 3.30pm to 8.00pm
Thursday 3.30pm to 8.00pm
Friday 2.30pm to 6.30pm
Saturday 10.00am to 2.00pm

NHS Choices

For information on NHS services nationwide and for further guides and resources on physical and mental health please click on the link below.
www.nhs.uk

London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames

For information about local services within the borough of Richmond, please click on the link below.
www.richmond.gov.uk

South West London Integrated Care Board

For more information about health services, please click on the link below.
www.southwestlondon.icb.nhs.uk/