Our practice provides several personalised wellbeing services and initiatives to support people improve their general health and wellbeing.

Alcohol

Drink Less (NHS guidance)

One simple way to cut down is to have at least a few drink-free days every week. This can be a really effective way to improve your health, lower your blood pressure, boost your energy, lose weight and save money.

For simple tips and tools to help you start cutting down today visit Drink less alcohol – Better Health – NHS, and download the app at NHS Drink Free Days – Apps on Google Play or NHS Drink Free Days on the App Store.

Waythrough (previously known as Together EDP)

This service offers 1-2-1 specialist support for anyone struggling with alcohol or drugs in the South Devon area. For more information and to self-refer, click here About us – Waythrough.

Torbay Recovery Initiative (for Torbay residents only)

This service offers alcohol treatment options, some self-management tools (including a password for the web-based or app “breaking free online”). Phone 01803 291129 or self refer using their online referral form. For more information, visit Torbay Recovery Initiatives – Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. Find details of your local group and more information on their website Home – Alcoholics Anonymous Great Britain.

Drink Aware

Get the FREE MyDrinkaware APP, check the facts, understand your drinking and make a change. Drinkaware are an independent charity that promotes responsible drinking and finds innovative ways to challenge the national drinking culture to help reduce alcohol misuse and alcohol-related harm. For more information, visit MyDrinkaware App | Drinkaware.

SilverCloud self-sign up

SilverCloud is a free digital platform offering confidential, self-managed programmes to support emotional wellbeing. The platform is available to anyone living in Devon, including carers, families and supporters of people accessing mental health services. There are several free programmes on subjects including:

Stress
Resilience
Sleep (NICE-recommended first treatment for insomnia)
Alcohol
Money

The programmes are fully confidential and self-managed. Staff are unable to see who has signed up or what has been recorded in the system. To register, visit the Devon Partnership NHS Trust SilverCloud website

Support for friends and family:

Al-Anon

Al-Anon offers a helpline to call for anyone who is affected by someone else’s drinking and there are support groups operating in the area too. Their website is Al-Anon UK | For families & friends of alcoholics.

Adfam

Adfam gives information, local support groups and helplines for anyone affected by someone else’s substance misuse, and information for family members including a useful directory of services can be found here For Families – ADFAM.

Bereavement

Waves Bereavement support Group

Dawlish. Last Thursday or each month 10.30-11.45, lower ground floor, Tunnicliffe Building, Barton Hill Car park, Dawlish, EX7 9QQ

Contact details 07931 225680 admin@rootscommunityenhancement.org

Alice Cross Grief Support Group

– Every other Wednesday, 10:30am-12pm. Please call on 01626 778039 for more information about any of these groups or to find out how to join.

Counsellors South-West (NHS)

Free counselling is available from Counsellors South-West with trained counsellors, and there is a waiting list for this service. Referral by GP

Cruse Bereavement Support

Cruse offers via the National Helpline 0808 808 1677, or online via grief counsellors using the Cruse Chat service: Get support – Cruse Bereavement Support. You can also contact the local Devon branch for further support: Contact your local branch – Cruse Bereavement Support.

Rowcroft Bereavement Services

Trained Bereavement Volunteers provide counselling sessions and one-to-one support for relatives of those who were supported by Rowcroft Hospice at the end of their life. Visit Bereavement | Rowcroft Hospice or call
Bereavement | Rowcroft Hospice or call 01803 217403 for more information.

Talkworks: bereavement support service

Talkworks offer Prolonged Grief Disorder Therapy (PGDT), for people who are finding that their grief is significantly impacting their lives more than 6 months after their loss. Visit What is Prolonged Grief Disorder? | TALKWORKS (dpt.nhs.uk) to self-refer or call 0300 555 3344.

Telephone Bereavement Support Service: Marie Curie

Marie Curie provides a bereavement service over the phone, and you can call free on 0800 090 2309 and ask for information about bereavement support. The service can match you with a trained volunteer who will provide regular bereavement support. For more information, visit ; https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/services/bereavement-support-service.

Bereavement by suicide

Pete’s Dragons – support for people impacted by suicide

Visit : https://www.petesdragons.org.uk

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide

Visit : Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide – Overcoming the isolation of people bereaved by suicide

*Please also visit the Mental Health section of our website for further counselling services to help with bereavement.

Cancer

The Lodge Cancer Support and Information Centre

The Lodge provides support for anyone affected by cancer. Services include signposting, emotional support, financial and benefits advice, applications for Macmillan grants, wig fitting service, headwear to purchase, complementary therapies, relaxation classes, and pamper sessions. Call 01803 656490 or visit www.torbayandsouthdevon.nhs.uk/services/cancer-support-services/the-lodge/for more information.

FORCE Cancer Charity

FORCE offers free counselling sessions and support services to adult cancer patients and their family members at any stage of a cancer diagnosis, as well as bereavement support. To find out more, visit their website Support and counselling for patients and adults close to them – FORCE Cancer Charity, call the team on 01392 406151 or email support@forcecancercharity.co.uk.

The sunflower bunch (Dawlish cancer support group)

Monthly meeting on 1st Wednesday of each month at the Methodist Church at 3PM, also coffee at Langstone Cliff every 3rd Monday of the Month at 2:30PM. – https://sunflowerbunch.org.uk/

Macmillan Cancer Support

Providing information and support to those who have been diagnosed with cancer, or who are supporting someone who has received a diagnosis.

Visit : Cancer information and support | Macmillan Cancer Support

Carers

Devon Carers

Caring for someone in Teignbridge and the wider Devon area? Devon Carers helps unpaid carers to maintain their own health, wellbeing and independence to care safely and effectively. Devon Carers provide carers with the information and advice they need in their caring role, as well as running support groups for carers, a hospital service and one-to-one support. Details of their helpline and how to register can be found at Home – Devon Carers. Online Carers Skills Workshops – Devon Carers

Devon Young Carers

Are you 18 years old and providing a caring role to someone? If you live in Teignbridge and the wider Devon area, Contact Devon Young Carers at https://devoncarers.org.uk/am-i-a-carer/young-carers/ to access support.

Carents Room

This website offers an extensive range of information and resources for carers caring for their parents. For more information, visit https://carents.co.uk/.

Care Direct

Can offer a care needs assessment and also help with longer term or urgent respite care. You can call them on: 0345 155 1007. They also have a self help tool to guide you to what support you might be looking for and if they can help https://www.devon.gov.uk/adult-social-care/finding-help-information-and-support/ .

Assist Teignbridge

Provide support with applying for Attendance Allowance/Pension Credit. Sitting service to give carers a break and home help support Home

Time For You Sitting Service

Short time sitting service to provide breaks for carers – provided by volunteers

For more information visit : Time For You sitting service – Devon Carers at Westbank

Local Carers Groups

Coastal Carers Club

Coastal Carers Club will be meeting at Claremont Manor in Dawlish (opposite Sainsburys). They meet on the first Monday of the month, 2-3.30pm – Organiser Rosie Dawson admin@rootscommunityenhancement.org

Teignmouth Carer Group

Thursday mornings 10.30-12.30pm at TAGG Centre Teignmouth.

Online Carer Group

https://www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice/your-health-and-wellbeing/online-meetups/

Macmillan Cancer Support

Caring for someone with cancer can be a difficult time. Get support to help you look after yourself, and to manage your feelings and relationships.

Visit : Emotional support for carers | Macmillan Cancer Support

Carers Support Group Newton Abbot

Do you care for a loved one who is struggling with their mental health? Facilitated by KingsCare and Devon Carers. 4th Thursday of the month, Between 10:00am-11.30am, Avenue Church, The Avenue, Newton Abbot, TQ12 2BY.

Children with additional needs

Disabled Children’s Service

A specialist service which provides a range of support and services to disabled children, young people and their families across Devon. For more information about the type of support offered, click here Disabled Children’s Service (DCS) – Education and Families. Information about now to request advice and/or an assessment can be found here, Request an assessment – Education and Families.

DIAS

Devon Information, Advice and Support (DIAS) service provides an impartial, confidential and free service for parents, children and young people. They can help you to understand more about the SEND support that is available including the support your child should receive at school. For more information, visit Home – Devon Information Advice and Support.

Cerebra

This organisation supports families of children with brain conditions who have complex medical, educational and social support needs. Cerebra provides guides, factsheets and other resources offer comprehensive and current information on a wide variety of issues – physical, social, sleep and legal – that parents and carers of children with brain conditions may be facing. For more information, visit Get Advice and Support – Cerebra.

Contact

Contact is a charity that supports parents and carers of children with additional needs. This service offers advice and guidance around the Disability Living Allowance application process. For more information, click here Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

Local support for neurodiverse adults, young people and children:

Autism Central – South-West Hub: Bristol Autism Support

This is a new programme, which provides high-quality and accessible autism information, education and coaching for families, and carers before and after diagnosis. This service offers 1-2-1 support for families and more information is here Autism Central – South West Hub – Bristol Autism Support, and you can self-refer for support using this form Bristol Autism Support Request for WAC 1-1 support (office.com).

Parent Support

South West Autism Support offers a wide range of bespoke services to families and professionals across the South West of the UK. They can offer support to parents who need to make sense of their child’s behaviours and difficulties. Practical help can also be given to parents whose child is diagnosed or awaiting diagnosis. There is a charge for this service, and you can find out more at www.southwestautismsupport.com/services.html.

Autism and Us parent programme and Autism themed workshops

Programme and themed workshops for parents/carers or Devon primary and secondary school children, pre or post-diagnosis. Attending the ‘Autism & Us’ parent programme gives you opportunity to develop your understanding of autism and look at practical solutions to managing and supporting your child’s presenting needs, whilst also connecting with other parents/carers. Website: Autism and Us – Education and Families.

Calmer Lives

A virtual service offering advice, guidance and support to neurodiverse families and individuals across the South West and beyond. Funded support can be accessed through Early Help or patients can contact them direct if able to pay privately. For more information, visit At Your Side (calmerlives.co.uk).

A Kind of Magic Animal Centre

There is a small farm centre with animals near Kingskerswell that runs wellbeing events for families. Please visit www.facebook.com/kofm16/ for more information and how to book a session. You can message the centre via the Facebook page to book a session or email kofm@btinternet.com.

Bale’s Farm

Bale’s Farm offers a therapeutic outdoor learning provision for children between the ages of 5 and 19. They offer farm therapy sessions and fun days, and their website is here www.balesfarm.org/about-the-farm and their Facebook Page is www.facebook.com/Bales.Farm.Outdoor.Learning.

Activity groups/support groups:

Teignmouth Neurodivergent Hub

A regular activity group for families and neuro-diverse children to meet and take part in activities for a wide range of ages. Sessions can include forest school, Saturday socials and a range of other activities. The group is based in Teignmouth, and their Facebook Page is https://www.facebook.com/tneurohub/, and their contact email address is tneurohub@outlook.com.

Parent support

AIMS – Dawlish Children’s Special Needs Group

A.I.M.S. exists to provide support to those families who have children with different needs. It meets every Saturday from 11am to 2pm to provide a safe and fun place for children to play and for their parents to meet, chat and share experiences.

Set in pleasant grounds in Oaklands School, Dawlish, they are fortunate enough to be able to take full advantage of any good weather, playing outside in the large playground on the swings, trampolines and the football pitch as well as in the lovely warm pool.

For more information visit : Welcome to AIMS! – AIMS Families

Parent Talk

Down-to-earth parenting advice. Find answers to parenting questions in advice articles, or talk to a parenting coach about anything that is worrying you. It’s all free, and no topic is too big, small, or embarrassing.

Visit : Parent Talk – Support for Parents from Action For Children

Tissues for Issues Group

This is a peer support group for parents who have children with additional needs. The group regularly runs events such as picnics, coffee mornings and a Youth Clubs. Members do not have to attend any of the face-to-face groups, and there is a private Facebook group to join to receive online support if preferred. More information is here https://tissuesandissues.org/home, and the private Facebook group is https://www.facebook.com/groups/1998466853749511.

For more information, contact Jackie at 07796470009 or email tissuesandissues@outlook.com.

Children’s Health

HANDi App

The HANDi app offers simple and straightforward advice, for the following conditions in children:

diarrhoea and vomiting
high temperature
‘chesty baby’ illnesses, such as bronchiolitis, asthma and croup
‘chesty child’ illnesses, such as wheezing and asthma
common newborn problems
tummy pain
head injuries.

The app takes you through a series of questions about the symptoms your child is experiencing and then advises on the best course of action, whether that’s to treat at home, to make a GP appointment, or to head to A&E. For more information, visit HANDi Paediatric app: advice for common childhood conditions – One Devon.

Children and Family Health in Devon (NHS)

This is the local Single Point of Access team accepts referrals for challenges faced by children and young people including the following:

Behaviour

Complex physical health

Early years developmental delay

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Persistent Pain

Neurodiversity

Physical Disabilities

Sensory

Speech, language and communication

Swallowing difficulties

For more information and to access support, click on this https://childrenandfamilyhealthdevon.nhs.uk/.

School Nursing and Health Visitor Service (for Parents/Carers of primary aged children)

Parents/carers can contact the public health nursing team (health visitors and school nurses) for information and advice on 07520631721, or contact their local hub listed on the webpage What we do – Education and Families. The team also recommends this website https://www.healthforkids.co.uk/ which has a kids and parents zone offering information relating to a range of health and wellbeing needs and sources of support.

Young Devon Wellbeing Service

Counselling from local, qualified therapists for young people aged 11-25 years old, visit www.youngdevon.org/wellbeing/our-wellbeing-services to find out more, and to submit an enquiry.

Teeth brushing apps

A range of helpful apps that are designed for children to help make teeth brushing fun, and to help keep their teeth healthy. Click here for a range of options, Search – Devon.

Dementia

Dementia Connect

Alzheimer’s UK run a Dementia Connect helpline for advice and support for anyone affected by memory loss and their family. For more information, visit : www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/dementia-connect.

Dementia Nurse telephone/online appointment

Dementia UK can also provide access to an Admiral Nurse (Dementia specialist) who can offer support and advice over the phone. Visit : Book an appointment – Dementia UK to book.

Local Support

Memory Lane Café, The Riverside Centre, Dawlish

Running on the 2^nd and last Thursday of each month. A friendly, fun and supportive environment for those with dementia and their carers. Activities include singing, seated chair exercises, puzzles, quizzes, arts and crafts, nostalgia.

Limited spaces, please pre-book by contacting: Lisa Higginson 07878630907 Mon-Thurs 9-4pm or email lisa.higginson@homeinstead.co.uk

Singing for the Brain

Dawlish Methodist Church, Brunswick Place, First and third Tuesday of every month, 2–3.45pm

The Alice Cross Memory Café, Teignmouth

This is a warm, welcoming space for individuals living with memory loss or dementia, as well as their carers and families. Held every Thursday (10am – 12pm) at the Alice Cross Centre in Teignmouth, the café offers a relaxed, supportive environment where guests can enjoy conversation, activities, and refreshments in the company of others who understand. It’s a place to share experiences, find friendship, and access helpful information and resources in a friendly, dementia-aware setting.

Bishopsteignton Memory Cafe

Running on the 1st Monday of the month, 10.30am–12.00pm at The Cockhaven Arms, Cockhaven Road, Bishopsteignton, TQ14 9RF, Contact Richard Moore on 07825 084 084 or Email richardmoore777@icloud.com

Visit : Bishopsteignton Memory Cafe – DMCC

The Ness Centre, Teignmouth

Cognitive stimulation sessions. To find out more about their Active Minds sessions visit : Active Minds | Dementia therapy East Devon | The Ness Care Group

Telephone : 01626 242997

Online Memory Support

Dementia-friendly Guided relaxation | Virtual Village Hall | Royal Voluntary Service

Meditation & mindfulness | Virtual Village Hall | Royal Voluntary Service

Newton Abbot Memory Café (led by Kingscare)

A friendly place to meet others living with memory loss (whether diagnosed or not) along with their Carers. The group is run by their dementia Carer’s support worker and experienced volunteers. Along with refreshments there are quizzes, word games, crafts, speakers and entertainers. For more details, visit : Newton Abbot Memory Café – Kingscare.

Drugs

Addiction Support

NHS guidance offering help and support for addiction, including drug and gambling addictions. Visit Addiction support – NHS for more information.

Waythrough (previously known as Together EDP)

This service offers 1-2-1 specialist support for anyone struggling with alcohol or drugs in the South Devon area. For more information and to self-refer, click here About us – Waythrough.

Torbay Recovery Initiative (for Torbay residents only)

This service offers drug treatment options, some self-management tools (including a password for the web-based or app “breaking free online”). Phone 01803 291129 or self refer using their online referral form. For more information, visit Torbay Recovery Initiatives – Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust.

Narcotics Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous is a community of people who support each other to achieve and maintain a drug free life. Find details of your local group and more information on their website Welcome to UKNA | UKNA | Narcotics Anonymous in the United Kingdom.

Talk to Frank

The website Talk to Frank has a range of facts, support and advice on drugs and alcohol. Visit Honest information about drugs | FRANK for more details.

Support for friends and family:

Adfam

Employment

I Can Do That

This service can help you with mental health issues, increase your confidence/motivation, choose a career direction, train you in employability skills and even plan daily routines and nutrition to help you achieve your goals. They offer 1:1 tailored appointment to suit individual needs. They also offer 8 sessions of free counselling for people out of work who feel mental health is a barrier to employment.

Visit : https://icandothat.co/

Eat That Frog

A local training centre based in Newton Abbot offering a range of courses, careers advice and support. Visit Home – Eat That Frog for more information.

Learn Devon

This service offers a wide range of courses relating to employment, life skills and being creative run online or at a local learning centre. Many of the courses are completely free. Visit Courses – Learn Devon for more information.

TALKWORKS

Helping with any work-based issues can help to improve emotional wellbeing too. TALKWORKS offers treatment for your mood while providing employment support alongside this.

As part of your treatment with TALKWORKS, they can offer you independent and impartial employment advice and support. This can include:-

Signposting regarding benefits, general guidance on employment law and employment rights

Support with job applications including writing a CV, the interview process, finding volunteer opportunities and accessing further education

Supporting you in your current job such as engaging with employers to help you address work issues and supporting you with attending work based meetings

Help with managing sickness absences from work, support with occupational health meetings, or returning to work after having time off unwell

Advice around reasonable adjustments or changing your job

Visit : Employment Support | TALKWORKS

Financial Support

Assist Teignbridge – Pension Age support

Provide support with applying for Attendance Allowance/Pension Credit.

Teignbridge Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice can help with money issues and offer advice around benefits, finances (including debt), fuel bills, housing and a range of other issues. They can be contacted on 0808 278 7997 or by filling in this online enquiry form: form.jotform.com/70543696250963.

You can also get advice from their drop-in sessions in Newton Abbot

Citizens Advice:

36-38 Market Walk, Newton Abbot, TQ12 2RX

Monday 09:30-12:30, Tuesday 09:30-15:00, Wednesday 09:30-15:00

Step Change

Step Change is a charity that offers a range advice and support around finances and debt. Visit Step Change Debt Charity. Free Expert Debt Help & Advice or call 0800 138 1111 for more information.

CAP Debt Help

Free debt advice and personal support in Teignbridge. Visit Get help near you | CAP UKor call 0800 328 0006 to book an appointment with your local debt centre.

Budget planner | Free online budget planning tool | MoneyHelper

SilverCloud self-sign up

Stress
Resilience
Sleep (NICE-recommended first treatment for insomnia)
Alcohol
Money

Food Bank Support

Dawlish:

Helping Dawlish

Help with food service, please visit : Help with Food | Helping Dawlish

Inspire Cafe, The Strand Centre

Affordable food available in a warm, inclusive and welcoming environment. Food parcels also available.

Visit : https://www.strandcentre.co.uk/inspire-cafe/ – also provide food parcels

Teignmouth Community larder

Please phone, text or message Jackie Jackson on 07917 428680 if you are struggling to choose between food or bills. Teignmouth Mutual Aid Community Larder can help. Don’t be worried or embarrassed because you are not alone. Many people are finding it impossible to make enough money to pay rent, mortgage of bills at the moment. TMA can’t do everything, but we can offer free foods and basics to help you free up money for electric or other bills. Just get in touch. No judgement. We are a family helping each other.

HITS Food Bank

Referral required. Any member of the surgery team can call 01626 906371 to refer you, or you can ask for a referral from Citizens Advice (details above).

THAT Food Bank

Essential items such as food, toiletries and home start packs, open Monday to Friday 10am-1pm. Self-referrals accepted for an initial parcel. For ongoing support, referrals are required, and any member of the surgery team can call 01626 437310 to refer you. You can also ask for a referral from Citizens Advice (details above).

Courtenay Centre Community Fridge (Newton Abbot) all websites

Offers food for free 24/7 that would have otherwise gone to waste. The community fridge is located outside in the Courtenay Centre in central Newton Abbot, Kingsteignton Road, TQ12 2QA. You can follow this Facebook page as it is updated when the fridge is restocked The Courtenay Centre | Newton Abbot | Facebook.

Olio

Free groceries are posted and offered to the community, and most of the food offered is based in and around Newton Abbot that are about to go out of date. Visit olioex.com/ for more information about the free App.

Too good to go

This app lets you rescue unsold food from going to waste. There are many ‘surprise bags’ available every day in the local area. You can use the app to explore shops and restaurants in your local area and save ‘Surprise Bags’ of surplus food from going to waste. Visit Join Our Food Waste Movement – Too Good To Go for more information and to download the app.

Healthy Ageing

Live Longer Better Courses

Are you looking to improve your health, become more active, reduce stress, and feel better in daily life? The why not try one of these new free courses.

The programme is designed to help you create a balanced lifestyle, stay active, and live with purpose. You’ll explore themes like fitness, relaxation, healthy eating, motivation, and social connection, all at your own pace.

Please visit this link https://f.io/QFZDbnNW to watch a helpful video which offers more information about the benefits of the courses on wellbeing.

There are three versions of the course to choose from, please see below for details:

Live Longer Better Peer Learning- ONLINE SELF DIRECTED learn at your own pace
The course includes 12 short online modules (10-15 minutes each) offering up-to-date research on staying fit, motivated, and mentally active. You’ll learn alongside a small group and have opportunities to join local Active Lives events.To access the programme, you will need a computer, tablet, or phone that can stream video via the internet. If you do not have access to online services or do not feel confident to using digital technology, you can provide the email address of a friend or family member to help you access the course.This course is suitable for those over 50 years of age with one long-term health condition. To book your place, visit Live Longer Better Course Booking.
Live Longer Better – Online coached course 10-part ONLINE learning course guided by your wellbeing coach
The course includes 10 short online modules (10–20 minutes each) that you can complete in your own time. Each module offers knowledge and up-to-date research on staying fit, motivated, mentally active, and connected to your community, along with a simple action to apply in daily life. You will learn with a small group, supported by a wellbeing coach, and have opportunities to join local Active Lives events.To access the programme, you will need a computer, tablet, or phone that can stream video via the internet. If you do not have access to online services or do not feel confident to using digital technology, you can provide the email address of a friend or family member to help you access the course.This course is suitable for those over 50 years of age two or more long term health conditions. To book your place, visit Get started with Live Longer Better – LIVE LONGER BETTER.
Live Longer Better – Group Learning IN PERSON group 8-week course
The modules are delivered by an experienced team in a supportive group setting, with opportunities to join local events, activity sessions, and connect with local support networks. The course offers simple, practical steps to help you regain motivation, focus on your health and wellbeing, and set positive, personal goals.This course is suitable for those over the age of 50 years of age who have at least one long-term health condition and are able to commit to a half-day session each week for 8 weeks.

To book your place, please email Lorraine Harris at healthyageing@teigncvs.org.uk or call 07796 039534.

More information about all the courses above can be found here Live Longer Better flyer

Healthy Lifestyle

NHS Better Health

Offering free tools and support, including NHS App recommendations, for losing weight, getting active, quitting smoking, and drinking less. Visit Better Health – NHS for more information.

Stop for Life – Devon

A free support service to help you stop smoking for good. For more information, visit Devon Stop Smoking Service | Devon County Council Stop Smoking Service Provided by Best You or call 0800 122 3866.

Get Active (NHS)

Walk your way to health! Did you know that walking briskly for just 10 continuous minutes counts as exercise? It’s easier than you think to fit into your day! This website offers an easy and helpful guide to becoming more active, including information about the Couch to 5K app (a free running programme for absolute beginners). Visit Get active – Better Health – NHS for more information.

Active Devon

Devon has a spectacular array of natural and community resources for getting and staying active and healthy. Explore this site to find fun, healthy and connected ways to get and stay active. Visit the activity finder to find an activity near you.

Newton Abbot Leisure Centre, Broadmeadow Sports Centre & Dawlish Leisure Centre (Teignbridge Leisure)

Offers a range of exercise classes, swimming and aquafit sessions on a pay as you or membership basis, visit Teignbridge Leisure – Home for more details. You may also be able to access the Teignbridge Leisure Referral Scheme via your GP, which offers a 12-week programme to help you become more active (referral criteria applies). For more information visit, Teignbridge Leisure – Exercise Referral.

Your Health Torbay

A service to help you manage your weight, moving more, quitting smoking and improving overall health for people living and working in Torbay. Visit Home – Your Health Torbay for more details.

Fitness in Torbay exercise referral programme

This 10-week exercise programme is supervised by fully qualified exercise professionals for those living in Torbay. The programme is aimed at people with medical conditions that would benefit from exercise. The cost is £60, and for more information, visit Fitness in Torbay exercise referral programme.

Free adult cycle training: Active Devon

Free adult cycle training sessions are available across Devon to help people of all skill levels build cycling confidence. Whether you’re new to cycling, returning after a break, or looking to commute more safely, these small, supportive group sessions cater to various needs. Options include beginner lessons, women-led sessions, mixed-ability and road confidence sessions, and even workplace training. Bikes and helmets can be provided, and bespoke sessions are available on request. For more information, visit Free Cycle Training Sessions to Help Adults With Cycling and Confidence – Active Devon.

Help at Home

Assist Teignbridge Volunteer Centre, Dawlish

Aims to support older adults and those in need. Services includes Benefit checks and claims support for people of pension age, Befriending service to reduce isolation, temporary dog walking and gardening help and enabling support, such as emergency shopping or medication pick-ups. Telephone: 01626 888 321

Assist Home Help and Care Services

Helping people live independently at home through the provision of Personal care, Domestic tasks, Enabling support and a Sitting Service for Carer respite.

Assist Nail Trimming Service

For those who can no longer manage nail care themselves they offer a home visiting nail trimming service. (Not suitable for diagnosed diabetics) Telephone : 01626 889288

Volunteering in Health – Teignmouth Hospital

A range of services including:

Providing support to people to enable them to live more happily, safely and independently, with a focus on people with memory problems and life limiting conditions, and their families.

Volunteer sitters to give carers a break.

Befrienders to visit or telephone lonely or isolated people once a week for a chat.

Help people to find and access a range of support services, linking them with other community and voluntary sector organisations in our community.

Wellbeing Co-Ordinators support people over a three month period to work towards set goals that will empower them to take more control of their own health and wellbeing.

Home Help Service – support people with practical tasks around the house, like cleaning, laundry and shopping for £20 per hour.

Transport – Our volunteer drivers take people to medical appointments in the driver’s own car or their wheelchair accessible vehicle. Please ring 01626 771696 to book transport, giving as much notice as possible (and a minimum of 48 hours if at all possible). There is a suggested donation for this service.

Personal assistant / Enabler –This is the next level on from a Home Help. This is a chargeable service. The PA can perform a range of tasks to help keep people independent at home. Whether that is in their home or taking them to another place for company, shopping etc. Tasks may include light housework, companionship, meal preparation, IT support, help with paperwork, sitting to give a carer a break, accompanied walks etc. They CANNOT carry out any personal care or help with medication. Download our enabling cover sheet or click here for more information.

Visit : Home – Volunteering in Health

Adult Social Care (Devon County Council)

If you live in the Teignbridge or South Devon area you can speak to the council directly if you have any queries around funded care and support at home as well as arranging a care needs assessment on 0345 155 1007 or email their team at cdpsouthernassessmentreviewteam-mailbox@devon.gov.uk.

Intermediate Care Team

Intermediate Care is a service for people over the age of 18, who need an urgent short period of rehabilitation, treatment, or care. This may be due to a recent illness, a hospital stay, or a reduction in their ability to remain independent at home. The Newton Abbot (and surrounding areas) team can be reached on 0300 500 4042 (Monday – Friday) or 0300 456 4622 (weekends and bank holidays). Click here Health and wellbeing teams – Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust for a full list of the other teams covering Torbay and the rest of Devon.

Independent Living Centre

Advice on equipment, aids for daily living and mobility solutions. Telephone 01392 380181 or email ilc-exeter@devon.gov.uk. Visit https://www.independentlivingcentre.org.uk/ for more information.

Age UK Devon: information and advice service

The local Devon branch of Age UK can offer advice in relation to organising and paying for care and support. Age UK can also in-person support with completing the Attendance Allowance application. The helpline is 0333 241 2340 and their website is Paying for care at home | Age UK.

How to find care at home services

The Devon County Council website provides advice and guidance on finding support at home as well as a list of local care options: Do you need personal care within your own home? Care at home – day services, enabling and personal care.

Keeping Safe

Worried about an adult in Devon?

If you suspect that a vulnerable adult is being abused, or you are being abused yourself and live within Devon Local Authority boundaries, please contact Adult Social Care on 0345 1551 007 (Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm, Friday 9am to 4pm), or call the out of hours Emergency Duty Service on 0345 6000 388. For more information, visit www.devon.gov.uk/adult-social-care/solutions/safe-from-abuse.

Worried about an adult in Torbay?

If you suspect that a vulnerable adult is being abused, or you are being abused yourself and live within Torbay Local Authority boundary, contact the Safeguarding Adults Single Point of Contact Team on 01803 219700 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)

or call the out of hours Emergency Duty Service on 0300 4564 876, or email tsdft.safeguardingalert@nhs.net. For more information, visit www.devonsafeguardingadultspartnership.org.uk/reporting-a-concern/report-your-concern-torbay-local-authority-boundaries.

Worried about a child’s safety? (Devon area)

If you are concerned about the safety of a child in Devon or want to speak to someone, or if you are a child worried about your own safety, contact the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) by completing the support form available on the website devoncountycouncil.outsystemsenterprise.com/MASH/homepage, call 0345 155 1071 or email mashsecure@devon.gov.uk and give as much information as you can. If a child is at immediate risk, contact the police on 999.

Worried about a child’s safety? (Torbay area)

If you are concerned about the safety of a child in Torbay or want to speak to someone, or if you are a child worried about your own safety, contact the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 01803 208100 or email mash@torbay.gov.uk, or call the out of hours Emergency Duty Service on 0300 4564 876. For more information, visit www.torbaysafeguarding.org.uk. If a child is at immediate risk, contact the police on 999.

National domestic abuse and violence support services

National Domestic Abuse Helpline 

The freephone, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247. If calling is difficult, you can also access a live messaging service with advisors available 10am-10pm Monday – Friday at www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk.

Women’s Aid

Women’s Aid is a national charity supporting women and children facing domestic abuse. Visit their website www.womensaid.org.uk to access a range of helpful information and advice, as well as their live chat and email service.

Refuge

Operating safe houses across the UK for women and children escaping domestic violence, and the address is confidential. For more information, visit refuge.org.uk or call the 24-hour helpline on 0808 2000 247.

ManKind helpline

A support service for male victims of domestic abuse and violence, which includes a support helpline. Visit mankind.org.uk or call 0808 800 1170 to access support.

Respect: Men’s Advice Line 

A helpline for male victims of domestic abuse and violence. Call 0808 8010 327 or visit mensadviceline.org.uk for more information.

Galop: LGBT+ Helpline

The Galop Helpline is for LGBT+ people aged 18 years and over who are experiencing abuse or violence and offers emotional support and guidance via their national helpline 0800 999 5428. You can also email help@galop.org.uk to access support or use their webchat service available via their website at Galop – the LGBT+ anti-abuse charity.

Local domestic abuse and violence support services

Fear Free: Interpersonal Trauma Response Service (ITRS)

Fear Free (ITRS) provides local support, advice and protection from domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking for patients who are registered with Albany Surgery. You can contact the team on 01752 963 493 or email ITRS@fearfree.org.uk. Visit www.fearfree.org.uk/refer/devon for more information.

Devon Domestic Abuse Alliance (DDAA)

An alliance of organisations supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse across Devon aged 16 years and over offering the following services:

Domestic abuse support tailored to your individual needs
A range of accommodation and housing options based on your needs
Access to one-to-one, group and peer support as well as trauma-focused therapy options
Access to specialist support including substance use, and homelessness
Access to Behaviour Change support, which helps people who harm break the cycle of abuse

For more information, visit www.ddaa.org.uk. You can also contact the service directly on the freephone number 0808 281 6161 or email hello@ddaa.org.uk (opening hours are Monday – Friday 9am-5pm).

Torbay Domestic Abuse Service (for residents of Torbay)

Torbay Domestic Abuse Service (TDAS) provides support for men, women and children in Torbay who need advice and protection from domestic abuse and violence. For more information, visit www.areyouok.co.uk/directory/torbay-domestic-abuse-service, or phone 01803 698869 or 0800 916 1474 or email tdas@sanctuary-housing.co.uk.

Intercom Trust 

Intercom Trust is a person-centred, client-led, inclusive charity who supports LGBT+ people to offer a range of services such as counselling and Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) Support based in Plymouth. For more information, visit www.intercomtrust.org.uk/get-help or 0800 612 3010.

More Positive Me

More Positive Me supports people with low self-esteem and low self-worth to gain knowledge and understanding of domestic abuse and its intricacies. They empower people on their journey to heal and get their lives back on track by supporting their growth, confidence, and self-belief, enabling them to make sense of what happened and move forward with their lives. For more information, visit www.morepositiveme.co.uk or call 07510 515160.

Phoenix Rising CIC

This service offers one-to-one support and advice over the phone, as well as face to face support in Newton Abbot and Torbay. They also offer courses for survivors related to healing from trauma life after domestic abuse, craft sessions and peer support groups. For more information and to self-refer, visit www.phoenixrisingcic.com
or www.facebook.com/people/Phoenix-Rising-CIC/100063610380976.

Refuge4Pets

Refuge4Pets provides a specialist Animal Fostering Service across Devon and Cornwall to victims and survivors of domestic abuse so that they can leave with their much-loved animals. For more information, visit refuge4pets.org.uk or call 0300 4000 121.

Safe Foundation

The Safe Foundation supports adults and children experiencing difficulties in life through their experience of domestic abuse. Their community-based therapeutic programmes are delivered through a range of means including individual and group counselling, organisational guidance, training, and workshops. For more information, visit wearesafe.org.uk/therapy or call 03030 300 112.

Sexual abuse and violence support services

Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC)

The Sexual Assault Referral Centre service provides medical support, examination and counselling after rape or sexual assault across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. To access support, visit sarchelp.co.uk/get-help or call the 24-hour helpline on 0300 303 4626.

Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services 

This service offers confidential, professional support to survivors of rape, sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse in Devon, regardless of the time elapsed since the abuse has taken place. This service can provide specialist support online, in person or by phone. Visit devonrapecrisis.org.uk or call 01392 204174 to access support. 

Momentum

Momentum is a peer support group for adult male survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Momentum offers individual and group support and can help you find specialist therapy or counselling if needed. For more information, visit www.momentumdevon.org.uk or call 07773 151080.

Operation Emotion

This is a Plymouth based charity that provides services to male survivors of sexual abuse. They run a range of support options, including a support group based in Paignton. To access support, visit operationemotion.co.uk or call 07837 321514 / 07539810096 / 07721 069496 or email opem@pm.me.

The Survivors Trust

A free, national helpline 7 days a week for people aged 16+ who are survivors of rape or sexual abuse and violence. A fully inclusive service, providing safe, non-judgemental support to survivors as well as an online ISVA service. For more information, visit thesurvivorstrust.org or call the helpline on 08088 010818.

Living with Long Term Health Conditions

Health Connect Coaching Programme

Volunteer, peer led, health and wellbeing coaching programme that has been designed and developed with people who have lived experience of long-term health conditions. This programme aims to support and empower individuals who are struggling to manage their condition, to build their knowledge, skills and confidence for better self-management of their health and wellbeing, in a way which matters most to them For more information, visit Health Connect Coaching Programme – Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust or call 07825 792847.

The Hope Programme (Help Overcoming Problems Effectively)

A range of local, online and virtual courses that focus on ‘what is important to me?’ to help you build the confidence and resilience to better manage health conditions, symptoms and challenging experiences that may arise. There are a range of courses available including, depression and anxiety, either in-person, online groups or virtual courses. The website is HOPE Programme Courses (myhealth-devon.nhs.uk).

Mental Health

Urgent support:

NHS 111

To access 24/7 urgent help with your mental health Get help from 111 online or call 111 and select the mental health option.

Samaritans

Samaritans are there, day or night, for anyone who’s struggling to cope, and this includes carers of someone in crisis. Call 116 123 (any time, free of charge) or email jo@samaritans.org.

The Mooring (NHS)

The Mooring offers out-of-hours mental health support to anyone aged 18 year and over. Support is available from 6pm-10:30pm Monday-Friday (including bank holidays) and 1:30pm-10:30pm, Saturday-Sunday, and this support can be face-to-face if required. Call 07483 991848 to access help or click here The Moorings @ Torquay for more information.

Mental Health Matters (Devon Helpline)

A 24/7 helpline (and webchat service) that provides emotional support and advice, which may include the following:

-Feeling low, anxious or stressed and feel that talking to another person might help you

-In extreme emotional distress and feel that there is nowhere else to turn

-You’re caring for another person and finding it difficult to cope

-You need advice about how to get more support with an issue that’s affecting your mental wellbeing

-You feel socially isolated and just need a chat

Call 0800 470 0317 or access the webchat through the website South West | Mental Health Matters.

SilverCloud Self Sign Up

Stress
Resilience
Sleep (NICE-recommended first treatment for insomnia)
Alcohol
Money

The Silver Line

A free, confidential helpline providing information, friendship and advice to older people, open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Call 0800 470 8090 to access support.

Counselling/talking therapies:

Talkworks

This is a free, confidential, NHS talking therapy service based around Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help with anxiety, low-mood and depression. Self-referrals can be made via their website www.talkworks.dpt.nhs.uk/ or by calling 0300 555 3344.

Counsellors South-West (NHS)

Free counselling is available from Counsellors South-West with trained counsellors, and there is a waiting list for this service. Contact the surgery via systm connect by clicking this link https://systmonline.tpp-uk.com/2/OnlineConsultation?OrgId=L83034 or by phone on 01626 334411 to enquire about a referral via your GP.

Young Devon Wellbeing Service

Counselling from local, qualified therapists for young people aged 11-25 years old, visit www.youngdevon.org/wellbeing/our-wellbeing-services to find out more, and to submit an enquiry.

Counselling services:

The surgery does not recommend or endorse the following counselling services, but the list below offer low cost or free services in the area.

CentrePeace Counselling

This centre offers free counselling services; visit www.centrepeace.org.uk/about or email info@centrepeace.org.uk for more information.

Dartmoor Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy

This centre offers sessions at a subsidised rate where needed, visit dartmoorcounselling.org/ for more information or contact 07916985621.

Devon Mind

This counselling service offers low-cost options for those in receipt of qualifying benefits, more information is available here www.devonmind.com/find-help/counselling or call 01752 512280.

Iron Mill Counselling service

Offers in-person sessions from trainee counsellors at their centre in Exeter. There may be a waiting list for this service; please visit www.ironmill.co.uk/counselling-service/overview for more details. To book an initial assessment, call 01392 499388 or email counselling@ironmill.co.uk.

Key Counselling

Trainee counsellors offering free counselling as part of their training. Zoom sessions are free, and there are sessions with qualified counsellors for a higher charge. More information is available here Professional / Personal Counselling | Birmingham | Devon (keycounsellingtraining.com).

Local private counsellors/therapists

The counselling directories The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) www.bacp.co.uk/search/Therapists and Counselling Directory www.counselling-directory.org.uk/adv-search.html list a range of accredited therapists and you can search by postcode. Some may also offer a sliding scale of price per session.

Young Minds

Young Minds are a national charity supporting parents and carers who are concerned about their child’s mental health, up to the age of 25. They offer three different services: the Parents Helpline, Webchat and Email service that are available here www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/parents-helpline-and-webchat/. They also have a wide range of information for parents available here: www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/.

Parental Minds (Counselling)

Helping families tackle a range of mental health struggles including self harm, anxiety and school refusal. They have resources, a support hub, counselling, and peer support. For more information, visit https://www.parentalminds.org.uk/

Mental health wellbeing groups and courses:

Health Connect Coaching Programme

BeWell@StepOne

A range of free mental health and wellbeing courses, peer support groups and wellbeing walks running in Teignbridge and Torbay ran by the charity Step One. For more information, click here Courses & workshops – Step One and Peer support groups – Step One for more details.

The Hope Programme (Help Overcoming Problems Effectively)

Talkworks Workshops

Free wellbeing workshops from the NHS. Workshops include topics such as Improving Sleep, Introduction to Mindfulness and the Menopause. Visit Wellbeing Workshops | TALKWORKS (dpt.nhs.uk) for details.

Andy’s Man Club (men only)

A talking group for men to support mental health. Meetings are held every Monday night, except bank holidays, 7pm-9pm (the groups facilitators are there to welcome you from 6:30pm) at Newton Abbot Rugby Club, Kingsteignton, TQ12 3SJ (opposite Matalan).

Brighter Horizons (women only)

Free mental health support group facilitated by women in Newton abbot every Tuesday 7pm-9m, for women aged 18 years and over. No booking or referral needed. For more information, click here Brighter Horizons In Newton Abbot | Newton Abbot | Facebook.

The Bro Project (men only)

This group offers opportunities for men to get together and organises a range of fitness and social sessions, including golf, martial arts and many more. For more information and details of their next sessions, click here Home | The BroProject.

Sleepio

Sleepio is a six-week programme used to treat insomnia, available free on the NHS. For full details, click here Onboarding Sleep Test – Sleepio.

Improving Sleep Workshop

A two-hour free session to help with a range of sleep problems from waking in the night to struggling to fall asleep. Sessions held online, and more information is here Wellbeing Workshops | TALKWORKS (dpt.nhs.uk).

Movement & Fitness

Relationships (and Domestic Abuse)

Fear Free

Fear Free provides support for anyone who needs advice and protection from domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking in the Teignbridge and wider Devon area. For more information, visit What we do – FearFree, phone 0345 155 1074 or email admin.devon@fearfree.org.uk.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline

The freephone, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline. 0808 2000 247. If calling is difficult, you can also access a live messaging with advisors available 10am-10pm Monday – Friday at https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk.

Men’s Advice Line

A helpline for male victims of domestic abuse. Call 0808 8010 327 or visit Domestic Abuse Helpline for Men | Men’s Advice Line UK for more information.

Survivors of Domestic Abuse Support

More Positive Me

Supporting people impacted by domestic abuse gain knowledge and understanding of domestic abuse and its intricacies, enabling them to make sense of what happened and move forward with their lives. Empowering people on their journey to heal and get their lives back on track, supporting their growth, confidence and self-belief. Either through face to face courses across Devon or eLearning and workbooks available to anyone across the UK.

Visit : More Positive Me – Empowerment After Domestic Abuse

Phoenix Rising

This is a service that works with survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. If that abuse was current or historic, they can work with you to empower you, to change your life and end the cycle of abuse you’ve found yourself in.

Visit : Home | Phoenix Rising Cic

Relate

Relate are a national charity, providing affordable relationship counselling to couples, individuals, children, young people, and families. They offer zoom sessions remotely or face-to-face sessions. For more details, visit Find your Centre | Relate.

Marriage Care

Marriage Care use a range of qualified counsellors and trainees to help couples (married or not) to build and sustain fulfilling, healthy relationships, to provide support in times of relationship difficulty. Visit Relationship counselling | Marriage preparation | Marriage Care for more information.

Intercom Trust

Intercom Trust is a person-centred, client-led, inclusive charity who supports LGBT+ people to offer a range of services such as counselling and Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) Support. For more information, visit Get Help – Intercom Trust.

Proud2Be

This organisation helps LGBTQIA+ people in Devon with a range of support groups, activity groups and 1-2-1 support. For more information, visit Proud2Be | Supporting LGBTQ+ People in Devon and Beyond.

Support for Families

Family Hubs – Action for Children (Teignbridge and South Devon)

Offers a welcoming environment and serves as a central point of access for all families, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) up to age 25. Their Family Navigator team are able to provide support and advice whether you’re having a parenting issue or feeling overwhelmed with the pressures of family life they can offer guidance and signpost to information and advice.

For information, click here Devon Family Hubs | Services | Action for Children
or complete the online referral form to access Support: Devon Family HUBS – Parent Carer Request for Contact (smartsurvey.co.uk).

Homestart

A charity that provides parent and family support. Homestart’s volunteers can support families with young children under the age of 5 at home or in the community. Homestart also run a range of groups and activities for parents and children in the Teignbridge area. For more information, click here http://www.homestart-teignbridge.org.uk/.

National services:

Family Action

Family Action provides emotional support, information and guidance on family relationships (including siblings) and conflict, parenting, caring, financial worries – to help you through whatever problems you or your family are facing, as well as a range of self-help resources. They can offer support via their Family Line helpline from 9am-9pm, via email, online chat as well as an out of hours crisis support service. For more details, visit https://family-action.org.uk/get-support/familyline/.

Family Lives

This service provides an extensive range of information and advice for parents including divorce, finances, mental health, bullying, and many more. They also provide a helpline accessible via phone, email and whatsapp for anyone with parenting and family life worries. For full details, click here https://www.familylives.org.uk/.

Gingerbread

A website that offers a wide range of support and advice for single parents. They also have a helpline and a chat function to access support. For more information, click on this link Home | Gingerbread.

Transport

Travel Devon

East Teignbridge Ring & Ride, Barton Hill Car Park, Dawlish EX7 9QH

Office Hours Monday to Friday 9am – 3pm

Tel 01626 888890

Email office@etcta.co.uk

Web: www.dawlish-mobility.co.uk