For Baby's Sake

For Baby’s Sake is a programme for expectant parents, whether together as a couple or not, who want to bring an end to domestic abuse and create the best possible start in life for their baby. For Baby’s Sake helps both parents to make the lasting changes that they want for themselves and their family. 

Website: www.stefanoufoundation.org

Future Living

Future Living Hertford is an Award Winning registered charity (number 1155145) and an independent service for those in recovery from addiction and domestic abuse, providing a safe, non-judgemental therapeutic environment.

Website: www.futurelivinghertford.co.uk

Herts Rape Crisis

 Free & confidential counselling for females who are over 18 and survivors of rape, sexual assault and/or childhood sexual abuse – no matter how old you were when this happened.

Every Thursday: 19:30 – 21:30 calls are answered by a counsellor. 

Telephone: 01707 276 512

Website: www.hertsrapecrisis.org.uk

Herts SARC (Sexual Assault Referral Centre)

Herts SARC offers free support and practical help to anyone in Hertfordshire who has experienced sexual violence and/or sexual abuse. If you would like to talk to someone about something that has happened to a friend or relative, they can talk you through their services and offer emotional and practical support. If you would like to speak to someone they are available 24/7. 

Telephone: 08081 784 448

Website: www.hertssarc.org

Relate - Hertfordshire

They offer a range of services to help you with your couple and family relationships, whether you’re young or old, straight or gay, single or in a relationship. They can help with the big relationship threatening problems as well as the issues that just make things a little less than perfect. Even if things are going well for you, we can help keep things that way. 

Website: www.relate.org.uk

Safer Places

Safer Places is an independent domestic abuse service with over 40 years of experience and has been recognised as delivering excellent services to adults and children affected by Domestic Abuse across Essex and Hertfordshire. They provide either community support or support within one of their refuges. They offer a wide range of services which anyone affected by domestic abuse can access. This includes legal advice, counselling, specialist advice and guidance regarding the circumstances that people may be facing. 

Website: www.saferplaces.co.uk

Herts Domestic Abuse

The Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline is a confidential, free, support and signposting service for anyone affected by domestic abuse.

Telephone: 0808 8088 088
Monday – Friday – 09:00 – 21:00
Saturday – Sunday – 09:00 – 16:00

Website: www.hertsdomesticabusehelpline.org

Watford Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Centre

Watford Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Centre offer non-judgmental support to women and men who have been raped or sexually abused, no matter when or how it happened. They offer a safe place for women and men over 16 years who have experienced sexual violence or abuse and are also a referral centre for survivors of satanic and ritualistic abuse. Watford Rape Crisis offers telephone and face to face support, sensitive to the individual’s needs, as well as links to relevant organisations, information.

Telephone: 01923 249 511

Website: www.wrc-info.org

Welwyn Hatfield Women's Refuge and Support Services (WHWR)

WHWR provides refuge accommodation to women fleeing domestic violence with, or without, their children. The Refuge operates a helpline and provides an outreach service for any women in the district who are, or have been, victims of domestic violence. WHWR operate two, term-time drop-in centres for women (under 5’s welcome).

Telephone: 03301 025 811

Website: www.whwr.org.uk

Beacon Hertfordshire Victim Care Centre

At Beacon they’re committed to helping you overcome any harm and suffering you experience as a result of a crime against you. Their role is to ensure you receive the help and support you need at every stage of the process. This means they’re here for you from the moment you contact them to the day your case is complete.

Website: www.hertfordshirebeacon.org

SAHWR

St Albans and Hertsmere Women’s Refuge aims to provide a safe comfortable, conflict free environment for women and women with children who are suffering domestic abuse.

Helpline: 0808 2000 247

Website: www.stalbansandhertsmerewomensrefuge.org.uk

Women's aid

Since 1974, Women’s Aid have been at the forefront of shaping and coordinating responses to domestic abuse. As a federation of over 180 organisations, they provide just under 300 local lifesaving services to women and children across the country.

Hepline: 0808 2000 247

Facebook: @womensaid

Twitter: @womensaid

Website: www.womensaid.org.uk

Herts Sunflower

Herts Sunflower are here to help and support you if you or someone you know has been abused.

Website: www.hertssunflower.org

Victim Support

As an independent charity, Victim Support work towards a world where people affected by crime or traumatic events get the support they need and the respect they deserve. They help people feel safer and find the strength to move beyond crime.

Surrey Supportline: 0808 168 9274
Lines are open 09:00 – 19:00, Monday – Friday
For out of hours support call our support line on – 0808 168 9111
Website: www.victimsupport.org.uk

Making sense of Allergies

What allergies are (and aren’t) and the evidence for causes and treatments. Allergies are frustrating and sometimes frightening conditions and they seem to be on the rise in developed countries.

Website: www.senseaboutscience.org

North West Allergy Network

The Doctors, Nurses and other health care professionals of the North West Allergy Network have worked together to produce a series of documents for patients with advice and guidance on the management of allergies. All of the documents have been reviewed by specialist doctors and nurses and approved for use.

Website: www.allergynorthwest.nhs.uk

Oral Allergy Syndrome

A common but not a dangerous form of allergy that occurs to certain fruits, often causing itchy mouth and ears.

Website:www.allergynorthwest.nhs.uk

Eczema and Allergy

Many people wonder about the link between eczema and allergies. Please visit the below website for more information.

Website: www.allergynorthwest.nhs.uk

The Counselling Foundation

The Counselling Foundation is a leading charity that has provided counselling and counselling training for the better mental health of communities in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire for over forty years. They offer free NHS and subsidised weekly counselling for anxiety, depression and bereavement for those aged 16+, as well as grief support groups for those who have experienced a similar loss and to help promote healing through education and support after the bereavement of a family member, friend or colleague. 

Website: www.counsellingfoundation.org

The Hospice of St Francis - Berkhamsted

The hospice offers a bereavement service to those of all ages.

Telephone: 01442 869 550

Website: www.stfrancis.org.uk

CRUSE Hertfordshire

Cruse exists to promote the well-being of bereaved people and to enable anyone suffering bereavement caused by death to understand their grief and cope with their loss. Cruse Bereavement Care Hertfordshire offers support when you need it most.

Telephone: 01707 278 389

Website: www.cruse-hertfordshire.org.uk

Sands

Sands offer support to those whose baby has died through late miscarriage, stillbirth or neo-natal death.

Telephone: 0808 164 3332

Website: www.uk-sands.org

The Compassionate Friends

Supporting bereaved parents and their families after the death of their son or
daughter, at any age and from any cause.

Helpline: 0845 123 2304

Telephone: 01767 689 781

Website: www.tcf.org.uk

Stand by Me

Stand-by-me bereavement support is here to help children & families in North Herts & Stevenage when someone close to them has died or is dying.

Telephone: 07469 255 163

Website: www.stand-by-me.org.uk

Sue Ryder

Sue Ryder provide person-centred hospice and neurological care for people facing a frightening, life-changing diagnosis. It’s not just expert medical care they provide. It’s the emotional support and practical things they take care of too. They do whatever they can to be a safety net for their patients and their loved ones at the most difficult time of their lives.

Telephone: 01767 642 429

Website: www.sueryder.org

Road Victims Trust

Provides emotional and practical support to those affected by fatal and serious injury road collisions in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire.

Telephone: 01234 843 345

Wesbite: www.rvtrust.org.uk

Way Up

A national charity offering a social and support network for men and women who lost their partner when aged 51 or over.

Website: www.way-up.co.uk

WAY Foundation (Widowed and Young)

A national charity offering a social and support network for men and women who lost their partner when aged 50 or under.

Website:www.widowedandyoung.org.uk

Listening Place - Ware

The Listening Place is for those who need a place to share their experiences of grief and loss. It offers a safe place where individuals can find a ‘listening ear’ and support in times of loss for any reason. 

Website: www.leasidechurch.org.uk

ADD-vance

ADD-vance is a dedicated group of professionals, who also happen to be parents of children affected by ADHD and/ or Autism. Their mission is to support the families of children affected by these conditions and the professionals involved in their care.

Website: www.add-vance.org

Angels Support Group

Angels is a parent led charity set up in North Hertfordshire to support parents and carers of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and/or Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC). 

Website: www.angelssupportgroup.org.uk

CommonSENse

CommonSENse offers a forum for parents or carers of special needs children to discuss difficulties and share solutions by using a straightforward and no-nonsense approach. It also offers positive support to anyone going through a difficult period. It is open to parents with children of any age and whatever the special need. 

Website: www.commonsenseharpenden.tripod.com

Headway Hertfordshire

Headway Hertfordshire works closely with people who have a brain injury, their carers and families. They aim to reduce social isolation, improve health and wellbeing and give carers a break. They also aim to raise awareness with local groups, professionals, statutory authorities, charities and others through presentations, talks and face to face meetings. 

Website: www.headway-herts.org.uk

Herts Parent Carers Involvement (HPCI)

 HPCI is an independent parent carer led organisation which aims to improve services for children and young people aged 0-25 years who have special educational needs and/or disabilities. They do this by ensuring that family voices are heard by service planners and decision makers. 

Website: www.hertsparentcarers.org.uk

Kids Hub

The HUB offers information and support for parents and carers of disabled children and young people aged 0-19 in Hertfordshire. The HUB provides free and impartial support over the phone, by email or face-to-face (including home visits).

Website: www.kids.org.uk/hub

Up on Downs

Up on Downs is a parent run organisation which supports families of children with Down’s Syndrome which welcomes parents and professionals from all over Hertfordshire. They support other parents by sharing information and creating opportunities for families to socialise and learn together. They support children by arranging specific activities and by working with other agencies to increase awareness of Down’s Syndrome and improve the opportunities available to people with the condition. 

Website: www.upondowns.com

The Regency Training Foundation

The Regency Training Foundation delivers short self-development training courses to disadvantaged adults and vulnerable young people in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and London. They work with adults aged 18 plus who have; physical, sensory and learning disabilities, mental health challenges, people from ethnic minorities, lone parents, and unpaid carers. More info on referrals can be found on their website.

Website: www.rtfoundation.org.uk

Young Carers

The main focus of the service is to work with children, young people and their families to help them find support locally, to reduce the amount of caring young carers have to do. Their staff visit young carers and their families in their homes so that they can understand the caring situation and find out what sort of help the family might need. They then work with other organisations like Hertfordshire County Council to find support from local services to reduce the amount of caring the young person has to do.

Website: www.carersinherts.org.uk/how-we-can-help/young-carers

Young Carers in Herts

Their young carers service works with young carers aged 18 and under. The main focus of the service is to work with children, young people and their families to help them find support locally to reduce the amount of caring young carers have to do. 

Website: www.ycih.org

Carers in Hertfordshire

A local, independent organisation offering support and signposting for carers.

Telephone: 01992 586 959

Website: www.carersinherts.org.uk

Email: contact@carersinherts.org.uk

Age UK Dacorum

Age UK Dacorum offers support to people living in the Borough who give unpaid care to a relative, neighbour or friend, where one of them is over 50.

Website: www.ageuk.org.uk/dacorum

Carers UK

They’re here to make sure that no matter how complicated your query or your experience, you don’t have to care alone.

Telephone: 0207 3784 999

Website: www.carersuk.org

Email: info@carersuk.org

Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust: Specialist Palliative Care Service

This service offers Palliative Care to people who have a life limiting illness such as cancer, multiple sclerosis and HIV/AIDS. It can be given at any stage of an illness but is particularly important for people who require end of life care or have advanced disease. The aim is not to cure but to relieve suffering relating to physical, psychological, spiritual and pain management issues, improving the quality of life of the person who is ill and supporting the people caring for them. Palliative care is given by a variety of professionals including community nurses and therapists, GPs and Independent palliative care providers.

Website: www.hct.nhs.uk

Macmillian Hertfordshire

Macmillan improves the lives of people affected by cancer locally. They provide practical, medical, emotional and financial support and push for better cancer care. Cancer affects us all. We can all help. We are Macmillan in Hertfordshire.

Telephone: 0300 1000 200

Website: www.macmillan.org.uk

Cancer Research UK

Free information service provided by Cancer Research UK about cancer and cancer care for people with cancer and their families.

Telephone: 0300 123 1022 (general enquires)

Telephone: 0808 800 4040 (Cancer related enquires)

Facebook: @cancerresearchUK

Twitter: @CR_UK

Website: www.cancerresearchuk.org

Live Better With Cancer

Making day to day life a little bit better for people living with cancer.

Telephone: 0800 118 2705
Open Monday – Friday – 08:00 – 17:00

Facebook: @livebetterwith

Twitter:@LBWCancer

Website: www.livebetterwith.com

Email: theteam@livebetterwith.com

Classroom Accommodations for Kids with Sensory Issues

Most kids with mild sensory problems and no other issues do just fine learning and socializing at school with a bit of understanding, extra support, a sensory diet, and a few simple accommodations. You may be able to work this out informally with your child’s school. However, a child with sensory processing disorder (SPD) may need more help to thrive in the classroom and elsewhere at school (the cafeteria, gym, art class, etc.).

Moving with Special Needs Kids

Moving is at once stressful and exciting. When you are moving with children, you face a number of considerations that others don’t have to face. When you add a special needs child to the mix, you have a lengthy list of addition things you have to do to make the transition as smooth as possible. Here are some tips to help you with the moving process, ensuring that your child’s needs are met throughout it.

Website:www.yourstoragefinder.com

Keech Hospice Care

Do you have a child with a life limiting condition. Call 0800 035 6497 (free advice line for specialist support). Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Website: www.keech.org.uk

Childhood illness visual guide

Use this visual guide to help you identify common conditions and illnesses that may affect your child. Includes conditions such as measles, slapped cheek syndrome, chicken pox and warts.

Website: www.nhs.uk

FUTUREHope

FUTUREhope is a free, confidential service working holistically with young people aged 11-19 across Hertford and Ware. Their primary goal is to empower young people to have hope for their future and reach their full potential through their four key areas of work: outreach, education, support and development. 

Website: www.future-hope.org.uk

Hertfordshire Charity for Deprived Children

A Hertfordshire Charity for Deprived Children awards small grants to children living in the administrative county of Hertfordshire who are facing difficulties that compromise their well-being and self-worth.

Website: www.mgtact0.wixsite.com

Hertfordshire Student's Union

A charity run by students, for students. The charity provides information for students on things such as events, jobs, representation as well as support and advice services.

Website: www.hertfordshire.su

National Citizen Service Programme

National Citizen Service (NCS) supports 15-17 year-old’s to learn new skills, gain exciting new experiences and contribute to their local communities. It is run locally by highly experienced organisations who have been carefully selected for the outstanding work they do with young people. 

Website: www.ncsyes.co.uk

Supporting You

Supporting You is a 7-week programme which equips young people with the tools to help themselves to strengthen their resilience and emotional well-being. The programme is suitable for young people that are aged 11-17 and beginning to exhibit behaviours or suggest themselves that they are starting to be affected by low mood, stress or anxiety such that it is beginning to interfere with the enjoyment of life and normal activities. They must have no current intervention or support in place from any other agency for emotional wellbeing or mental health issues, they do not meet the criteria for a CAMHS referral and are able to commit to attending a 7 week Supporting You programme in their local area. 

The Boys Brigade

The Boys’ Brigade engages with over 50,000 children and young people providing opportunities to meet together in their communities and engage in a range of fun and developmental activities. They believe that empowering children and young people is important and do this by involving them in decision making at all levels of the Boys Brigade and giving responsibility appropriate to their age and aptitude. 

Website: www.boys-brigade.org.uk

The Youth Booth

This is a small charity which funds a range of projects for young people in Hemel Hempstead. The projects include youth clubs for children which offer a variety of activities.

Website: www.theyouthbooth.com

Thirst Youth Cafe - Bishop Stortford

They believe that in order to influence or change something you first need to engage with it. Therefore, in order to engage the young people of Bishop’s Stortford they look to use Thirst Youth Café as a place for Young People to build strong and trustworthy relationships with positive and responsible role models.

Website: www.thirstcafe.com

Tilehouse Counselling

Tilehouse Counselling is a charity that provides professional counselling and therapeutic group work for adults and young people (13-19). They work from their base in Hitchin where they have six comfortable counselling rooms. They also offer some appointments for young people at the Stevenage One Stop Shop and Roysia Surgery, Royston. 

Website: www.tilehouse.org

YCT

YCT is a counselling and therapeutic support charity. They specialise in supporting children and young people aged 5 – 25 years, their families and the professionals who work with them. YCT work from community venues and schools, academies, colleges, alternative education provisions and specialist schools across Essex, Hertfordshire and Greater London. 

Website: www.yctsupport.com

YC Herts

YC Hertfordshire provides youth work projects and programmes, information, advice, guidance, work related learning, outdoor education and support for young people. YC Herts can help young people with the issues which are important to them such as jobs, careers and education, relationships, sexual health, confidence, self-esteem, substance misuse, staying safe, housing and independent living skills. 

Website: www.ychertfordshire.org

CHIPS Playscheme

Children’s Integrated Playschemes (CHIPS) offer play and social opportunities for children with additional needs aged 3 to 19 living in East Hertfordshire and the Borough of Broxbourne. Brothers and sisters are strongly encouraged to join as they believe that all children should play together, regardless of their needs.

Website: www.chipsplay.org

Young Pride in Herts

Young Pride in Herts offers support, info and advice to the young LGBTQ community and those who may be struggling with their sexuality or gender, in Hertfordshire. If you need support, want to get involved in changing services in the county or are a friend/parent or carer who needs advice, please contact them through their contact page.

Website: www.youngprideinherts.org

Youth Talk

A confidential counselling service for young people aged 13-25 who live, work or receive education in St Albans and the surrounding district.

Website: www.youthtalk.org.uk

Berkhamsted Town Hall Tots

A warm and friendly drop-in playgroup for under fours. Crafts, free play, snacks, singing, and tea and coffee for the grown ups.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TownHallTots

Email: townhalltots@gmail.com

Who not What

Who not What is a group of young people who have come together to represent the voice of the young lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender and questioning community of Hertfordshire. They are looking at services available throughout the county and will be working towards improving these services for young LGBTQ people aged 13-24 who live, work or are educated in the county. They conduct regular consultations to hear the views and opinions of young LGBTQ people aged 13–24 who live, work or are educated in the county.

Website: www.ychertfordshire.org/youth-work/young-peoples-democracy/who-not-what

Contact for families with disabled children

Contact support families with the best possible guidance and information. For every shape and size of family, whatever they need and whatever their child’s disability.

Telephone: 0808 808 3555

Facebook: @contactfamilies

Twitter: @contactfamilies

Website: www.contact.org.uk

Email: info@contact.org.uk

PALMS (HCT)

PALMS (Positive behaviour, Autism, Learning disability and Mental health Service) works across the county providing a specialist multi-disciplinary approach to children and young people aged 0-19 who have a global learning disability and/or Autistic Spectrum Disorder and their families. PALMS clinicians comprise a ‘virtual team’ delivering a consistent service in a variety of community settings.

Website: www.hct.nhs.uk

How To Calm A Child With Autism

Techniques for avoiding and managing meltdowns.

Website: www.verywellhealth.com

How to Create a Safe, Sensory-Friendly Backyard Landscape for Your Child With Special Needs

Playing outside is one of the greatest joys of childhood. Stepping out the back door into sunlight, fresh air, and freedom can provide a feeling of liberation unlike any other. There are extra considerations when your child has special needs, but time outside still can offer tremendous therapeutic benefits, especially for children with autism or similar conditions that may keep them confined indoors in highly structured, climate-controlled environments for most of the day.

Website: www.wikilawn.com

Treating Sensory Processing Issues

Specialized gyms help over-sensitive (or under-sensitive) kids.

Website: www.childmind.org

Playskill

Playskill is a local charity that runs parent and child term-time groups for pre-school children with special physical needs. Groups are run by a skilled team, including a Paediatric Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist and Speech and Language Therapist. They are based in Watford and Hemel Hempstead and welcome interest from all local areas, including Three Rivers, Dacorum, St. Albans and Bushey. If you are local, but outside of these areas, please do contact them to confirm whether you are within their radius. 

Website: www.playskill.org

Estate Planning for Parents of Children with Autism

As people grow older, especially parents, they begin to think about the future, and how their children will be provided for after they’re gone. For parents of children without developmental disabilities, this is easier, as those children can typically provide for themselves.

Website: www.justgreatlawyers.com

Potential Kids

Potential Kids is voluntary non-profit organisation based in Hatfield, aiming to help young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities up to age 25, their siblings and families by providing social/activity groups. They offer after-school and weekend activity sessions for young people aged with special education needs and disabilities. These also give parents the opportunity to meet, relax, have a coffee and some downtime, whilst their young people socialise, learn and play.

Wesbite: www.potentialkids.org

NESSie

NESSie provides arts therapies and counselling to support children and young people with positive mental health in schools and educational settings across North Hertfordshire and Stevenage. NESSie provides a wraparound service delivery model to ensure children and young people are accessing the right level support to meet individual needs. 

Website: www.nessieeducation.com

Vista St Albans

St Albans Plus and Vista can provide a Counsellor to support a child or young person aged between 5 and 19 years regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability or sexual orientation. The counselling sessions enable them to explore their feelings in a secure environment and enable them to move past their problems and build firm foundations for a secure future. 

Website: www.vistastalbans.org.uk/children

Vaccination planner

Download a personalised vaccination calendar, which highlights the dates your child needs to have their vaccinations by.

Website: www.nhs.uk

HPFT Out of Hours Helpline

This service operates through the night from 5pm – 9am on weekdays and around the clock at weekends and on Bank Holidays. The service is available to our service users and carers for advice and support outside office hours. The helpline is staffed by experienced mental health professionals and support staff who can offer the following support: Putting worries and anxieties in perspective, Guidance about local services and referral if needed and Information on diagnoses, mental health issues and medication. 

Telephone: 01438 843 322

Website: www.hpft.nhs.uk/contact-us/out-of-hours-helpline/

NightLight Crisis Service

NightLight is a countywide out of hour’s mental health crisis service providing a safe and welcoming space for people who are feeling distressed and experiencing a crisis. They create a warm, welcoming and homely environment which is somewhere for you to relax and feel safe, where you can use the facilities and know that skilled and experienced staff are on hand to listen to you and offer support and advice if needed. They are open out of hours on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday nights from 7pm-2am, every week of the year.

Telephone: 01923 256 391

Website: www.hertsmindnetwork.org/nightlight

Single Point of Access (SPA)

SPA consists of a multidisciplinary team of qualified mental health professionals and trained referral advisors offering telephonic triage for all referrals for mental health and learning disabilities services in Hertfordshire. Referrals can be made through GPs and other health professionals or through self or carer referrals. SPA operates 8am – 7pm Monday to Friday. 

Telephone: 0300 777 0707

Website: www.hpft.nhs.uk/get-help/

DSPL (Delivering Special Provision Locally)

DSPL is a Hertfordshire-wide partnership approach where parents, carers, staff in early years settings and schools, further education colleges, local authority officers and representatives from other agencies, work together as part of an Area Group, to ensure that there is a range of provision and support services available in their local community. 

Website: www.dspl7.org.uk

Heather Club

A day centre/day club for older people, who are able to manage their own personal needs, I.E toilet, hand washing with help. The club provides recreational activities, entertainment and stimulating activities, visits to various accessible places such as a garden centres, parks, etc. Carers can benefit from having several hours to do essential tasks, or just have a break from caring for a short time. 

Telephone: 07836 560 684

Email: theheatherclub@aol.co.uk

Haven

The Haven is a monthly support group, providing a safe space for those young people (aged 12+) who are dealing with stress and anxiety. This group can help you to learn practical tools to help you manage and reduce your anxiety levels and connect with other people who understand what you are experiencing.

Website: www.the267project.com/about

ASCEND

For over 20 years, ASCEND has been tackling unemployment, social deprivation and learning disabilities in the local community. They support the South Oxhey community in many ways, including training courses, job club, careers advice and more. 

Website: www.ascend.org.uk

Camphill Village Trust - St Albans

They are supported living providers and also offer a wide variety of day opportunities. Many people who live in easy driving distance of one of their communities, join them for day opportunities, once a week or more frequently. They arrange a variety of activities within the St Albans community.

Website: www.camphillvillagetrust.org.uk/locations/st-albans

Community Development Agency for Hertfordshire (CDA)

CDA Herts’ primary role in the Voluntary and Community Sector is to be the voice and advocate for the communities in Hertfordshire. They achieve this by exchanging information between the public, private and voluntary sectors, influencing strategies, supporting and working in partnership, and delivering projects.

Website: www.cdaherts.org.uk

Groundwork East Hertfordshire Projects

Through a range of projects across the County, Groundwork work towards a vision of a society of sustainable communities which are vibrant, healthy and safe, which respect the local and global environment and where individuals and enterprise prosper. Creating these sustainable communities means developing initiatives which cut across economic, social and environmental issues. 

Website: www.groundwork.org.uk/sites/east/pages/category/current-projects-in-hertfordshire-east

RECOVER

Recover is a vibrant furniture up-cycling social enterprise, creating pathways into volunteering and work. At its heart is their commitment to sustainability – upcycling old unwanted furniture or working with materials either donated or reclaimed from the local area. RECOVER offers people life- changing experience, apprenticeships and professional qualifications in furniture up-cycling. Along the way they also gain a love of furniture and design and a belief in supporting the local community, environment and economy. 

Website: www.recoverteam.co.uk

Watford African Caribbean Association

WACAS is a small charitable organisation that uses local knowledge and decades of experience to transform the lives of the vulnerable, the elderly and children, whilst preserving African and Caribbean traditions. 

Website: www.wacas.org.uk

YMCA Central Herts

YMCA deliver a range of programmes and services that tackle issues facing local people and ensure there are opportunities for young people throughout our work from apprentices, to work experience, and childcare to youth work. They work with all ages, faiths, backgrounds and have served the communities in Hertfordshire for over 127 years.

Website: www.ymca.org.uk/location/ymca-west-and-central-herts

Hemel Hempstead JobCentre Plus

Here you can find your local job centre offices in and around Hemel Hempstead. Your local job centre can administer claims Jobseeker’s Allowance, Incapacity Benefit, Employment and Support Allowance and Income Support.

Website: www.jobcentreguide.co.uk

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice aims to provide the advice people need for the problems they face and improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives. They provide free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities including on benefits, debt, consumer, housing, family, law and immigration. They value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination.

Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Walking Netball

Netball sessions designed for female participants over 55 years, although anyone wanting to take things a bit slower is welcome to attend. Led by a qualified coach, the emphasis is on having fun whilst learning the basic skills and rules. Suitable for all abilities.

Telephone: 07834 500 189

Email: lucy.ponting@englandnetball.co.uk

Community Centres - Dacorum Borough Council

There are 12 community centres throughout the borough, usually run by the community for the community. As well as a wide range of programmed activities for their local area, the centres all have rooms available for hire for a one-off event, or for a new regular activity for the community.

Website: www.dacorum.gov.uk

Pioneer Approaches

Creative Training, Consultancy, Workshops, Projects and Activities for and with People with Learning Disabilities and Differences.
They offer specialist and innovative creative support with an emphasis on music and drama in leisure, personal development, life skills and employment.

Facebook:@PioneerApproaches

Telephone: 07773 291 579

Website: www.pioneerapproaches.co.uk 

Email: ali@pioneerapproaches.co.uk

Adult Disability Football Sessions

Football Session for adults aged 18 years + to take part in a fun and safe football session. The session will combine with football skills and activities and games. The sessions will be designed to be delivered to any disability. £2 per session.

Telephone: 07841 028 229

Email: karen.stephanou@watfordfc.com

Dementia Adventure

Dementia Adventure helps people live better with dementia by connecting them to the outdoors, their community and help retain a sense of adventure in their lives.

Facebook: @DementiaAdventure

Twitter: @DementiaAdv

Telephone: 01245 237 548

Website: www.dementiaadventure.co.uk

Contraception Choices

There are many types of contraception available and none are perfect.
The Contraception Choices website provides honest information to help weigh up the pros and cons.

Website: www.contraceptionchoices.org

Sexwise

Contraception helps protect you from pregnancy. There are different methods to choose from. Find out all about them and compare different methods.

Website: www.sexwise.fpa.org.uk

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice (previously Citizens Advice Bureau) is a network of 316 independent charities throughout the United Kingdom that give free, confidential information and advice to assist people with financial issues and other problems. Through their website you can access information and find your local CAB.

Food Banks

The Trussell Trust believe that no one in a community should have to face going hungry. That’s why they provide three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to them in crisis. If local agencies feel you are struggling to put food on the table, they will issue you with a foodbank voucher.

Website: www.trusselltrust.org/get-help/find-a-foodbank

DENS

Their aim is to be the first port of call for people in Dacorum who are facing homelessness, poverty and social exclusion; to support and empower them to take the next positive step in their lives. DENS house, support and empowers vulnerable single homeless people, and others in crisis, to transform their lives

Wesbite: www.dens.org.uk

Emmaus

Emmaus Hertfordshire is a homelessness charity providing up to 39 formerly homeless people with a safe home environment and the opportunity to work. The charity has six stores located across Hertfordshire, filled with quality second-hand furniture, warrantied electrical items, and clothes. Emmaus collects donated furniture and other household items which are recycled, restored and resold. This funds the community and helps people to move on from homelessness. They also provide skilled work and training and a stable home environment, thereby giving people a chance to regain their self-esteem.

Wesbite: www.emmaus.org.uk/hertfordshire

Hertfordshire Floating Support Service (Aldwyck Housing Group)

Aldwyck’s Floating Support Service provides a holistic package of support to vulnerable people to enable them to maintain their tenancy and independence. The service offers flexible, short-term housing support to people for a maximum of two years. You can self-refer but must also be willing to: undergo a needs and risk assessment and undertake a support programme. 

Website: www.aldwyck.co.uk/hertfordshire-floating-support-service

The OLLIE Foundation

OLLIE is a charity dedicated to delivering suicide awareness, intervention and prevention training by empowering professionals and young adults in their own communities to lead suicide prevention activities. It is widely accepted in society that with appropriate support and education, suicide can be prevented.

Website: www.theolliefoundation.org

Haven

The Haven is a monthly support group, providing a safe space for those young people (aged 12+) who are dealing with stress and anxiety. This group can help you to learn practical tools to help you manage and reduce your anxiety levels and connect with other people who understand what you are experiencing.

Website: www.the267project.com/about

Hertfordshire Directory

The Hertfordshire directory has a useful search engine which includes many organisations and support groups within Hertfordshire.

Website: directory.hertfordshire.gov.uk

Young Minds

Young Minds are leading the fight for a future where all young minds are supported and empowered, whatever the challenges.

Parent Helpline: 0808 802 5544

Facebook: @youngmindsuk

Twitter: @YoungMindsUK

Website: www.youngminds.org.uk

Samaritans

Samaritans 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. Call Samaritans free, 24 hours a day 365 days a year.

Telephone: 116 123

Website: www.samaritans.org

Email: jo@samaritans.org

Rethink

Rethink provide expert, accredited advice and information to everyone affected by mental health problems.

Telephone: 0300 5000 927

Website: www.rethink.org

Email: info@rethink.org

Mind

Mind provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.

Telephone: 0300 123 3393

Website: www.hertsmindnetwork.org

British Heart Foundation

View information on cholesterol, its causes and how you can reduce your cholesterol level.

Website: www.bhf.org.uk

Cholesterol - Patient Info

View information on cholesterol, risk factors and treatments available to reduce the risk.

Cholesterol Information

Statins and other Lipid-lowering Medicines

Better Living

Find practical help with managing Type 2 diabetes through this informative toolkit.

Telephone: 0162 853 7900

Website: www.better-living.co.uk

Email: DSO-UK@takeda.com

BDA

British Dietetic Association (BDA) is the only body in the UK representing the whole of the dietetic workforce.

Telephone: 0121 200 8080

Facebook: @BritishDieteticAssociation

Twitter: @BDA_Dietitians

Website: www.bda.uk.com/foodfacts/home#medical_conditions

Diabetes UK

Dealing with diabetes can be daunting, whether you’re newly diagnosed, an old hand, or even if it’s someone you know who has the condition. Having someone to talk to can make all the difference.

Telephone: 01376 501 390

Website: www.diabetes.org.uk

Disability Rights UK

Disability Rights UK ant a society where everyone can participate equally.

Telephone: 0330 995 0414

Website: www.disabilityrightsuk.org

Hertfordshire City Council

Find out about the services and support available for people with disabilities including Blue Badge, Register as disabled, Sensory services (Hearing and sight loss), Learning Disabilities, Disabled Toilet Keys, Travel Wallet and Disabled Parking Bays.

Website: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

Friends of Bright Eyes

Friends of Bright Eyes are a registered charity providing vital support services for children with disability and their families.

Email: info@fobe.org.uk

Telephone: 07871 500 706 / 01582 966 065 

Website: www.fobe.org.uk

Music24

Music24 is a small, not for profit organisation that offers Music Therapy and other music-related activities as a creative outlet for those based in Luton, Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire facing difficulties in life, such as those living with Dementia, Learning Disabilities or Mental Health.

Email: info@music24.org.uk

Telephone: 07521 248 091 

Website: www.music24.org.uk

Down's Hert Group

A charity offering support and information relating to heart conditions associated with Down’s Syndrome.

Email: info@dhg.org.uk

Telephone: 0300 102 1644

Website: www.dhg.org.uk

Dacorum Mencap

Dacorum Mencap supports people with learning disability, their families and carers, in the Borough of Dacorum in Hertfordshire, UK. This includes the towns of Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted and Tring, plus surrounding villages. Dacorum Mencap is affiliated to Royal Mencap and was founded in 1952.

​Providing a focal point for everyone involved with learning disability, covering all ages and disabilities. Come and meet us at our regular Drop In. Every Tuesday 12:00 – 14:00 at St Mary’s Church, Old Town Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3AE.

Telephone: 01442 247 675

Website: www.dacorummencap.org.uk

HAD

A charity helping older and disabled people to lead an independent life.

Website: www.hadnet.org.uk

KIDS Hertfordshire HUBs

The HUBs offers information and support for parents and carers of disabled children and young people aged 0-19 in Hertfordshire.

Website: www.kids.org.uk/hub

Aspergers4Herts

They are a limited charity trust predominately run by volunteers, many of whom have full time occupations also. They aim to bring information, help and support to people affected by Asperger syndrome in Hertfordshire. 

Website: www.aspergers4herts.org

Mudlarks Community Garden

Mudlarks is a Hertford based charity which supports adults and young people with learning disabilities and mental health issues. Through supported learning and meaningful work in the community, Mudlarks’ projects help people build confidence and self-worth, and develop important skills. 

Website: www.mudlarksgarden.org.uk

PALMS (HCT)

PALMS (Positive behaviour, Autism, Learning disability and Mental health Service) works across the county providing a specialist multi-disciplinary approach to children and young people aged 0-19 who have a global learning disability and/or Autistic Spectrum Disorder and their families. PALMS clinicians comprise a ‘virtual team’ delivering a consistent service in a variety of community settings.

Website: www.hct.nhs.uk

Potential Kids

Potential Kids is voluntary non-profit organisation based in Hatfield, aiming to help young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities up to age 25, their siblings and families by providing social/activity groups. They offer after-school and weekend activity sessions for young people aged with special education needs and disabilities. These also give parents the opportunity to meet, relax, have a coffee and some downtime, whilst their young people socialise, learn and play.

Wesbite: www.potentialkids.org

SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Information Advice and Support Service

They provide impartial and confidential information, advice and support to parents and carers of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and young people and children with SEND. 

Website: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

SNAP (Special Needs Activities and Play)

SNAP aim to provide stimulating play opportunities and good quality childcare, tailored to meet the needs of children and young adults with special needs. They also provide parents/carers with affordable respite care from well trained and experienced staff. 

Website: www.stalbansmencap.org.uk

Springboard (Specialist Post 16 Educational Provision)

Springboard is for you if you’re aged 16-24 and have been diagnosed with/have traits of an Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) and associated emotional, behavioural and mental health needs. You may also have low confidence or self-esteem, social anxiety or have underachieved or missed time at school – and you may have a learning difficulty in one area but a high ability in others. At Springboard, they’ll give you the additional specialist support you need before progressing to mainstream college course or employment. 

Website: www.nhc.ac.uk

The Regency Training Foundation

The Regency Training Foundation delivers short self-development training courses to disadvantaged adults and vulnerable young people in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and London. They work with adults aged 18 plus who have; physical, sensory and learning disabilities, mental health challenges, people from ethnic minorities, lone parents, and unpaid carers. More info on referrals can be found on their website. 

Website: www.rtfoundation.org.uk

Guide Dogs

Guide Dogs wants a world in which all blind and partially-sighted people enjoy the same rights, opportunities and responsibilities as everyone else. Their mission is to provide guide dogs and other mobility services that increase the independence and dignity of blind and partially-sighted people.

Telephone: 0800 953 0113

Facebook: @guidedogsUK

Twitter:@guidedogs

Website: www.guidedogs.org.uk

Watford Sheltered Workshop

Watford workshop’s provide work experience, skills training and employment for disabled and disadvantaged people. They help them to achieve greater independence, become more integrated into the community and where possible move them on to mainstream employment. 

Website: www.watfordworkshop.co.uk

DeafblindUK

Deafblind UK supports people with combined sight and hearing loss to live the lives they want .Losing your sight and hearing can be frightening. The charity’s team of experts is here every step of the way to show you life beyond sight and hearing loss.

Telephone: 0173 3358 356

Facebook: @DBUKCharity

Twitter: @DeafblindUK

Website: www.deafblind.org.uk

ABLEize

ABLEize is the largest and most viewed UK disability, mobility and healthcare contact point on the net. Here you will find 430 plus categories filled with providers offering everything from mobility and daily living aids through to support, disability sports, arts and education, care providers and healthcare products and services.

Website: www.ableize.com

The Living Room

The Living Room Hertfordshire is an award winning addiction recovery charity, founded in 2000. With centres in Hertfordshire in Stevenage and St Albans, staffed by highly-trained counsellors with lived experience of addition themselves. They offer free, day-time, group counselling, peer support and workshop therapies using the 12-step programme.

Telephone: 01438 355 649

Website: www.livingroomherts.org

Turning Point

Turning Point work with people who need support with their drug and alcohol use, mental health, offending behaviour, unemployment issues and people with a learning disability. They aim to inspire and empower them to discover new possibilities in their lives.

Website: www.turning-point.co.uk

Walk to Freedom

Established in 2011 The Walk to Freedom Limited is a successful not-for-profit ex service user led community based organisation that is committed to addressing the issues surrounding drug and alcohol dependency through its innovative intervention, prevention, and awareness programmes.

Email: info@walktofreedom.co.uk

Telephone: 0800 093 7792 / 07400 882 909

Website: www.walktofreedom.co.uk

Cocaine Anonymous UK

Cocaine Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from their addiction.

Email: info@cauk.org.uk

Telephone: 0300 111 2285

Website: www.cauk.org.uk

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

If you suspect you or a loved one suffers from alcoholism and you are reading this message, then there’s a good chance you wish to take action to improve the situation.

Website: www.cassioburycourt.com

Change Grow Live (CGL)

CGL is a free and confidential drug and alcohol service for adults and children and young people. The service helps individuals sustain the changes they need to reduce and, ultimately, stop drug and/or alcohol use. CGL is available in multiple areas within Hertfordshire. 

Website: www.changegrowlive.org

Druglink

Druglink are a substance misuse charity focused on harm minimisation. Their objective is to make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by substance misuse, their families & communities. They achieve this through their Pathway of Prevention, Recovery & Reintegration.

Website:  www.druglink.co.uk

Future Living

Future Living Hertford is an Award Winning registered charity (number 1155145) and an independent service for those in recovery from addiction and domestic abuse, providing a safe, non-judgemental therapeutic environment.

Website: www.futurelivinghertford.co.uk

Grow Hostel

GROW is a charitable Not-for-Profit organisation which provides short to medium term hostel accommodation for men between the ages of 25 and 60 with inclusive drug or alcohol issues.

Website: www.growhostel.org.uk

Hertfordshire Complex Needs Service

The service provides 1:1 community support to people recovering from mental health issues and additional complex needs, including drug and alcohol misuse. It works across Hertfordshire and can support you in your own home or within your local community. They work together with you to design personalised support packages that reflect your individual needs, offering high quality support to help improve your quality of life enabling you to face the future with confidence.

Website: www.hertsmindnetwork.org

Resolve

Resolve supports the whole family through structured programmes, values and services for people with alcohol and substance issues, their family members, carers and loved ones. Today Resolve delivers services across the County of Hertfordshire with service centres based in East & North. 

Website: www.resolve-online.org

Supporting Herts

Supporting Herts offers housing-related support to drug and/or alcohol users within Hertfordshire. They work in partnership with Druglink to support service users to prevent homelessness by helping to achieve stable housing and aid recovery from drug and/or alcohol dependency. Their service covers the whole of Hertfordshire. 

Website: www.wdp.org.uk

Viewpoint

Viewpoint is a user involvement charity in Hertfordshire for people with mental health or drug and alcohol problems. They believe It is essential that the people who use or who have used mental health or drug and alcohol services are enabled to help make positive changes to them. They provide support to our members to use their experience in the most positive way, drawing on their abilities to ensure they are user led. 

Website: www.hertsviewpoint.co.uk

Drinkline

If you’re worried about your own or someone else’s drinking, you can call this free helpline, in complete confidence.

Telephone: 0300 123 1110

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) 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. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.

Telephone: 0800 9177 650

Website: www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

Email: help@aamail.org

Talk to Frank

If you have a problem with drugs Talk to Frank for friendly, confidential drugs advice.

Telephone: 0300 123 6600

Text: 82111

Website: www.talktofrank.com

Email: frank@talktofrank.com

Dementia UK Admiral Nurses

Specialist Mental Health Nurses that work with family carers and people with dementia, in the community and other settings: individual/family work, Post-Diagnostic Support Groups (PDSG), and Carer’s Workshops and a local programme of Dementia Café’s.

Admiral Nursing Direct Helpline: 0845 257 9406 

Website: www.dementiauk.org

AT Dementia – Assistive Technology and Dementia

Provides information on Assistive Technology that can help people with dementia live more independently. Including useful advice and product suggestions about equipment and where to by it and a discussion forum.

Website: www.atdementia.org.uk

Alzheimer's Society

A leading charitable organisation providing services, advice and support to people with dementia and their carers.

Helpline: 0300 222 1122 

Website: www.alzheimers.org.uk

Dementia Gateway

Short videos providing information about Dementia by the Social Care Institute for excellence.

Website: www.scie.org.uk

Dementia Services - Cogs Club (Dacorum Age UK)

Cogs Club has been set up to help people experiencing problems with their memory. This club aims to encourage members to participate in purposeful activity in order to develop or maintain active minds.There are five Cogs Clubs in Dacorum. The clubs are  modelled on Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) and are specifically for people with mild to moderate memory problems/ dementia. Clubs are held weekly in Aldbury, Berkhamsted, Tring and Hemel Hempstead.

Website: www.ageuk.org.uk

The Red Shed Project

It is a non-profit organisation that benefits the community. We provide a service for those living with dementia, their carers and families. Their qualified Horticultural Therapists, supported by trained and experienced volunteers, deliver garden-based activities and experiences. They aim to improve and enhance physical and mental health, wellbeing and alleviate loneliness and isolation. 

Website: www.theredshed.garden

Age UK Dacorum

Age UK is the country’s largest charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. We believe in a world where everyone can love later life and we work every day to achieve this.

Telephone: 01442 259 049

Website: www.ageuk.org.uk/fernvilleff

Dementia UK Admiral Nurses

Specialist Mental Health Nurses that work with family carers and people with dementia, in the community and other settings: individual/family work, Post-Diagnostic Support Groups (PDSG), and Carer’s Workshops and a local programme of Dementia Café’s.

Admiral Nursing Direct Helpline: 0845 257 9406 

Website: www.dementiauk.org

Alzheimer's Society

A leading charitable organisation providing services, advice and support to people with dementia and their carers.

Helpline: 0300 222 1122 

Website: www.alzheimers.org.uk

Dementia Gateway

Short videos providing information about Dementia by the Social Care Institute for excellence.

Website: www.scie.org.uk

Care Choices

Information about finding care and support for adults and elderly relatives.

Telephone: 0800 389 2077

Cinnamon Trust

Cinnamon Trust is a National Charity for elderly and terminally ill people and their pets, where the owner needs help walking their dog.

Email: volunteer@cinnamon.org.uk

Telephone: 01736 757 900 

Website: www.cinnamon.org.uk

Eldergym Senior Fitness

Useful exercises with videos for keeping strong in old age.

Website: www.eldergym.com

Dementia UK

Dementia UK offers specialist one-to-one support and expert advice for people living with dementia.

Telephone: 0800 888 6678

Website: www.dementiauk.org

Email: helpline@dementiauk.org

Older Drivers

Experienced drivers are, in general, safer than those with less experience but as we age, our health and fitness, often including our eyesight, physical condition and reaction times, begins to decline.

Recognise whether and how your driving is changing and decide what you can do to cope with these changes and find help, such as medical advice, driving assessments and training and vehicle adaptations

Visit: www.olderdrivers.org.uk

Silver Line

Free phone support for older people, 24 hours a day.

Telephone: 0800 470 8090

Website: www.thesilverline.org.uk

Aspects

Aspects is a family & pupil support service to help you through some of the challenges. They can support children 5-19 at school and as well as their family. Family Support Workers can help with a wide range of family challenges. They work with children, families and schools to make sure they are all giving the same messages and that your child is surrounded by a team of caring people. The service can be accessed by residents of Bishop Stortford, Sawbridgeworth and surrounding villages. 

Website: www.aspects.org.uk

Families in Focus

 Families in Focus is an organisation that supports parents caring for children with additional needs and disabilities. They run a variety of free workshops and groups all over Hertfordshire. 

Website: www.familiesinfocus.co.uk

The OLLIE Foundation

OLLIE is a charity dedicated to delivering suicide awareness, intervention and prevention training by empowering professionals and young adults in their own communities to lead suicide prevention activities. It is widely accepted in society that with appropriate support and education, suicide can be prevented.

Website: www.theolliefoundation.org

Families First

Families First brings together the full range of County Council professionals that help children, young people or their families.

Website: www.hertfordshirefamiliesfirst.org.uk

Families Feeling Safe

Families Feeling Safe is an award-winning Social Enterprise, delivering high quality protective behaviours training, courses and workshops. Their work aims for children, young people and families to feel safer in their communities by improving their resilience and emotional & mental wellbeing. 

Website: www.familiesfeelingsafe.co.uk

HABS Family Support Team

HABS is a team of highly trained Family Support Workers, supporting the local community and working on projects to help improve the lives of families living within Hoddesdon, Broxbourne, Turnford and Wormley. The available support on offer is open to all families whose children attend the partnership schools and range from parenting classes, holiday activity sessions and family support covering a wide range of issues including emotional well-being, debt, bereavement and other complex issues. 

Website: www.habsfamily.co.uk

Home-Start Herts

Home-Start is one of the leading family support charities in the UK. Home-Start volunteers help families with young children deal with the challenges they face. They support parents as they learn to cope, improve their confidence and build better lives for their children. 

Website: www.home-startherts.org.uk

Link Family Services

They are an organisation in place to support families whose children attend a Link School in Dacorum. There is no problem too big or too small. If they cannot help with your particular problem or query, they will know someone who can. Your involvement with them is totally dependent on your needs and they only get involved if you want them to. They are not social services and do not work directly in the school. Your details and what you talk about, are kept confidential. 

Website: www.linkfamilyservices.co.uk

Fitter Better Sooner

Having an operation is a major event in someone’s life and it’s normal for them to feel anxious about it. Fitter patients who are able to improve their health and activity levels recover from surgery more quickly and with fewer complications. What you do in the time leading up to surgery can have a really big impact on your recovery and long term health.

Website: www.rcoa.ac.uk/fitterbettersooner

Arthritis Research UK

Arthritis Research UK invests in breakthrough treatments, the best information and vital support for everyone affected by arthritis.

Website: www.arthritisresearchuk.org

Exercises for Piriformis Syndrome

Please see this video for a demonstration of exercises for Piriformis Syndrome if directed here by your doctor.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Exercise Sheets - Dr Hasan Tahir

View exercise sheets including ankle, back, elbow, feet, hip and knee exercises.

Website: www.hasantahir.com

NCT

NCT are here to support parents. They give them accurate, impartial information so that they can decide what’s best for their family, and we introduce them to a network of local parents to gain practical and emotional support.

Website: www.nct.org.uk

West Hertfordshire Hospitals - Hemel Hempstead

There are a wide range of maternity service available at West Hertfordshire Hospitals (Hemel Hempstead).

Website: www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk/maternity

BabyCentre

BabyCentre® reaches more than 45 million mums globally each month in nine different languages, including eight in 10 new and expecting mums online in the UK.

Website: www.babycentre.co.uk

Download from: play.google.com

Download from: itunes.apple.com

Baby Buddy App

Baby Buddy is an award winning mobile phone app for new parents and parents-to-be, created by mums, doctors and midwives.

Download from: play.google.com

Download from: itunes.apple.com

NHS App Library

Find digital tools to help you manage and improve your health.

Website: www.nhs.uk/apps-library

What is Screening?

Screening is a way of identifying apparently healthy people who may have an increased risk of a particular condition. The NHS offers a range of screening tests to different sections of the population.

The aim is to offer screening to the people who are most likely to benefit from it.

For example, some screening tests are only offered to newborn babies, while others such as breast screening and abdominal aortic aneurysm screening are only offered to older people.

Screening Results

If you get a normal result (a screen negative result) after a screening test, this means you are at low risk of having the condition you were screened for. This does not mean you will never develop the condition in the future, just that you are low risk at the moment.

If you have a higher-risk result (a screen positive result), it means you may have the condition that you’ve been tested for. At this point, you will be offered further tests (called diagnostic tests) to confirm if you have the condition. You can then be offered treatment, advice and support.

Finding out about a problem early can mean that treatment is more effective. However, screening tests are not perfect and they can lead to difficult decisions about having further tests or treatment.

What types of screening are offered by the NHS in England?

An independent expert group called the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) advises the NHS, in all 4 UK countries, on which screening programmes to offer.

The NHS screening programmes currently offered in England are listed below. For more detailed information on each type of screening,

You can also view screening timelines.

Screening in pregnancy

Pregnant women are offered the following types of screening:

• screening for infectious diseases (hepatitis B, HIV and syphilis)
• screening for Down’s syndrome, Patau’s syndrome and Edwards’ syndrome
• screening for sickle cell disease and thalassaemia
• screening for physical abnormalities (mid-pregnancy scan)

Screening for newborn babies

Newborn babies are offered:

• a physical examination, which includes the eyes, heart, hips and testes
• a hearing test
• a blood spot test to check if the baby has any of 9 rare conditions

Diabetic eye screening

From the age of 12, all people with diabetes are offered an annual diabetic eye test to check for early signs of diabetic retinopathy.

Cervical screening

Cervical screening is offered to women aged 25 to 64 to check the health of cells in the cervix. It is offered every 3 years for those aged 26 to 49, and every 5 years from the ages of 50 to 64.

Breast screening

Breast screening is offered to women aged 50 to 70 to detect early signs of breast cancer. Women over 70 can self-refer.

Bowel cancer screening

There are 2 types of screening for bowel cancer.

A home testing kit is offered to men and women aged 60 to 74.

Bowel scope screening uses a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera on the end to look at the large bowel. It is offered to men and women at the age of 55 in some parts of England.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening

AAA screening is offered to men in their 65th year to detect abdominal aortic aneurysms (a dangerous swelling in the aorta). Men over 65 can self-refer.

The Proud Trust (LGBT+)

The Proud Trust is the home for LGBT+ Youth (Lesbian. Gay. Bisexual. Trans. Other identities).

Website: www.theproudtrust.org

Azalea

Azalea connects with women through outreach, drop-in and befriending. In all areas, we work closely with statutory partners to form exit strategies out of sexual exploitation and drug or alcohol addiction.

Email: info@azalea.org.uk

Telephone: 01582 733 200

Website: www.azalea.org.uk

Sexual Health Clinic

The Hemel Hempstead sexual clinic offers a wide range of sexual health services.

Telephone: 0300 008 5522

Website: www.sexualhealthhertfordshire.clch.nhs.uk

Terrence Higgins Trust

They provide support for people newly diagnosed with HIV and those living with HIV in Hertfordshire. Training for professionals is also available. 

Website: www.tht.org.uk/centres-and-services/hertfordshire

The Crescent

The Crescent provides help and support to those living with, or otherwise affected by, HIV. They are a member led organisation run both by and for people living with HIV. The charity provides emotional and practical support in a confidential and non-clinical environment and through outreach services in a variety of settings.

Website: www.thecrescent.org.uk

Brook

Brook provides free and confidential sexual health and wellbeing services for nearly 250,000 young people UK-wide, each year.

Website: www.brook.org.uk

Family Planning Association

A sexual health charity, the Family Planning Association gives straightforward information and support on sexual health, sex and relationships to everyone in the UK.

Telephone: 020 7608 5240

Website: www.fpa.org.uk

Sexual Health Helpline

The National Sexual Health Helpline provided by Public Health England is open Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm.

Telephone: 0300 123 7123

Stop Smoking Help - Hertfordshire

There are over 300 local stop smoking services in Hertfordshire offering non-judgemental support, either one-to-one or for groups in the workplace.

Website: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/smoking

Quit with help

Everyone has a different reason for quitting, get a personalised Quit Smoking Plan.

Website: www.quitwithhelp.co.uk

BLESMA

A charity which supports limbless veterans (amputees or paralysis). They give practical advice and personal service – a member will come out to see the veteran needing assistance. They provide guidance and help.

Telephone: 01480 469 216 

Website: www.blesma.org

Help for Heroes

A psychological well being service for veterans & families; part of help for heroes. Hidden Wounds provides free and confidential support to Ex-Service Personnel, their families and the families of those still serving, who are living with anxiety, depression, stress, anger or who wish to change their drinking habits.

Telephone: 0808 2020 144

Website: www.helpforheroes.org.uk

Burma Star Association

The Burma Star Association exists to relieve need, hardship or distress among men and women who served in HM and Allied Forces or the Nursing Services in the Burma Campaign of the 1939-45 war or are otherwise entitled to be holders of the Burma Star or Pacific Star with Burma Clasp and for their widows, widowers or dependants.

Website: www.burmastar.org.uk

The Ripple Pond

Peer-led, self-help groups meet regularly with the main aim of providing a space to express feelings safely, in a non-judgemental environment, ​​where ​​everyone can be heard. The groups are here for parents, spouses, siblings – indeed any adult family member of a veteran or a UK serving personnel who feels they would like support.

Website: www.theripplepond.org

Combat Stress

Combat Stress is the UK’s leading veterans’ mental health charity. They treat a range of mental health conditions including PTSD, depression and anxiety. They also help with alcoholism.

Telephone: 0800 1381 619

Website: www.combatstress.org.uk

Walking with the Wounded - Head Start

Walking With The Wounded supports a pathway for vulnerable veterans to re-integrate back into society and sustain their independence. At the heart of this journey is employment. It is like an IAPT service but for veterans, with virtually no waiting time – up to 12 sessions of face to face counselling.

Website: www.walkingwiththewounded.org.uk

Help for Heroes - Big White Wall

Free to all UK serving personnel, veterans and their families, Big White Wall is a safe online community of people who are anxious, down or not coping who support and help each other by sharing what’s troubling them, guided by trained professionals.

Website: www.bigwhitewall.com

BeeZee Bodies

Helping you to get healthy, BeeZee Bodies run loads of programmes designed to help you and your family make small changes which make a big difference.

Website: www.beezeebodies.com

Am I a Healthy Weight?

Calculate your BMI using this NHS Tool

Website: www.nhs.uk

Want to get more active

Get help and advice from NHS Choices including 10 Minute workouts, 12 week fitness plan, running & cycling for beginners and much more.

Website: www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise

Meetup

Meetup is a social website collection of get together’s and you can search for local Hemel Hempstead Meetups in topics including sport and activity. It is organised around one simple idea: when we get together and do the things that matter to us, we’re at our best. Just getting together with others helps us to feel well.

Website: www.meetup.com

Hertfordshire City Council

Walking, Cycling, Ideas to keep active, Activities for children, Pregnancy and physical activity & News.

Website: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

Dietdoctor

View health information, recipes and advice on how to lose weight.

Website: www.dietdoctor.com

Health Walks Berkhamsted

Sometimes a walk alone in the fresh air is just what we need. But if you’re just getting started and you’re not sure that you want to do all your walking alone – or if you like the idea of having other people around to help you stay motivated – then walk with us.

Website: www.walkingforhealth.org.uk

One You Easy Meals - Mobile App

The free Easy Meals app is a great way to eat foods that are healthier for you. You’ll find delicious, easy meal ideas to help get you going if you’re ever short of inspiration.

Download from: play.google.com

Download from: itunes.apple.com

WW International

Meetings, Online or a little bit of both. There are options and support, whatever your lifestyle, from WW International (formerly Weight Watchers).

Website: www.weightwatchers.com

Slimming World

You’ll find delicious recipe and menu ideas at your local group, along with all the help you need to get started and reach your target weight.

Website: www.slimmingworld.co.uk