A short list for people to refer those in urgent need.
Practical support
Food banks – see the Transformation Cornwall list, updated every Friday at 6pm, for contact details and referral routes & criteria at all the food banks.
Clothing – there is a new list of clothing banks that we have collated including clothing sources for adults, children, homeless people, etc.
Housing and homelessness
- Resources on the Cornwall Housing website, for people facing homelessness, or to help those who are already sleeping rough 0300 1234 161
- Streetlink, alerting support services to people sleeping rough 0300 500 0914
- St Petrocs advice and support line 01872 264 153
- Shelter, helpline around housing issues (tenancy, etc) 0808 800 4444
Debt/benefits/financial support – Citizens Advice Cornwall has debt advisers who can give one-to-one support, and general advice on benefits, work, housing, energy advice/bills and health:
- Debt enquiries – text DEBT to 78866
- Debt Advice Line – 01752 850 488 M-F only
- All other enquiries – text ADVICE to 78866
Health and disability support
disAbility Cornwall and Isles of Scilly – DIAL information service 01736 759 500
Emergency dental care – West Country Dental Care – 0333 405 0290 for those who need urgent dental care but are not registered with a dentist.
Learning Disability – Cornwall People First, user-led service, offering easy-read guides, and advocacy.
For those caring for others
Young children – Parents/family members can make a referral to the Early Help Hub from Cornwall Council for family support, health visiting, parenting support, etc. – 01872 322277
Carers – Kernow Adult Carers Service offers advice and guidance for carers. Plus extensive information on the Cornwall Council website. 0300 1234 131
Promas Caring for People also offers support services and training for carers.
Children & young people
Childline for any child or young person, for any problem 0800 11 11 7.30am-3.30am, 7 days a week
The Mix is the UK’s leading support service for young people aged up to 25, with online support and a helpline & counselling service. 0808 808 4994
Mental health and wellbeing
Mental health – extensive lists of mental health support, both for those in crisis, and those who need a nudge to get them into healthier thought patterns.
Samaritans – 116 123
Bereavement – Cornwall Bereavement Network will help signpost to appropriate services. 01208 834 620 9-5, M-F.
For young people who have been bereaved, Penhaligon’s Friends offers advice, guidance and support. 01209 210 624
Outlook Southwest /Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust Suicide Liaison Service, for adults who have been bereaved by suicide. 01208 871905. and Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide similarly. 0300 111 5065 9am-9pm, M-Sat.
Drugs and alcohol – We Are With You Cornwall with support and advice for those who need support with drugs, alcohol or mental health, for themselves or a freind/family member. 0333 2000 325 (24 hours)
Eating Disorders – see BEAT Eating Disorders website for details of helplines and chat rooms. Main helpline 0808 801 0677, open every day, 9am-8pm week days, 4pm-8pm weekends & bank holidays.
For those in danger
Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence –
- See Cornwall Council’s resources explaining what this covers, and where people can find support to escape abusive situations and relationships.
- First Light – 0300 777 4777 support for those affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence
- Cornwall Refuge Trust – 01872 22 5629 – 24 helpline for anyone escaping domestic abuse
Child abuse -resources on the Our Safeguarding Children Partnership website for children experiencing abuse, professionals and family members who may see it, and around Child Sexual Exploitation.
Police – 999 for emergencies, 101 for non-emergencies. If you need to dial 999 but cannot speak to the operator, press 55, and they will understand, and help you.
Victim Support – for those affected by a crime or traumatic events, 0808 1689 111