We recognise that while the winter break can be a wonderful time for many, it can be a difficult and lonely time for others.
We have put together a roundup of support available to staff over this period including opening hours where relevant. Please share it with your teams and departments so those who may need it are aware of the help which is available during this period.
Mental health
- Employee Assistance Programme – the EAP service gives staff free day-to-day wellbeing support and access to an expert counselling service to help you and your immediate family at any time – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The confidential helpline is also available to your immediate family – that includes a spouse, partner, registered civil partner and children aged 16 to 24 in full-time education who are living in the same household. UK freephone 0800 316 9337 or WhatsApp and SMS 07418 360 046.
- Solent Mind – they offer high quality mental health services including services for those in crisis.
- NHS 111 Mental Health Triage Service – provides advice, support and guidance, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for anyone living in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Call 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk and ask to speak to the NHS Mental Health Triage Service. They have a wide range of skills, including on the phone brief psychological support and has access to key services and organisations that can offer mental health support to people in their time of need.
- Samaritans – they offer a safe place for you to talk any time you like, in your own way – about whatever’s getting to you. You don’t have to be suicidal. These services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call Samaritans on 116 123.
Domestic abuse support
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police. Other services available for domestic abuse support are listed below:
- Refuge is the largest specialist domestic abuse organisation in the UK. 0808 2000 247
- National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247 (24 hrs).
If you’re worried about someone else who you believe may be experiencing domestic abuse, there is advice on the Southampton City Council website.
If you have concerns about your own behaviour, there is support available from Respect.
Financial advice and support
MoneyHelper provides free and impartial money advice. The MoneyHelper helpline is open Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 18:00. The helpline is closed on bank holidays. 0800 138 7777 (English).
Remember, more advice and signposting to information is available at the UoS Health and Wellbeing SharePoint site. SharePoint is available as an app from Google Play or the Apple Store.