Signposting & Resources
This page links you to local services and organisations that might support your care, learning, wellbeing or general interests.
Click on the arrows (>) to expand each section and find out more, including helpful links.
"A vital source of support and a powerful force for change for everyone affected by dementia."
Accessible resources and factsheets as well as information to help with cost of living concerns, help to stay independent, legal advice.
"Arthritis Action is the UK charity giving hands-on, practical help to improve the quality of life of people affected by arthritis. We offer an integrated self-management approach, which looks at both the physical and mental health impact of living with arthritis. We support people living with musculoskeletal conditions through healthy eating advice, mental health resources, pain management techniques, local Groups, and exercise advice and resources.
We also offer one-to-one nutritional consultations; access to clinical appointments with our network of osteopaths, physiotherapists, and acupuncturists; and a personalised pathway for goal setting, through our Membership, to help people take control of their arthritis and enjoy life to the full."
"To improve the lives of people with fibromyalgia by increasing awareness of the condition throughout the UK and elsewhere, and improve the awareness of, and access to treatments for fibromyalgia."
Information booklets, FAQ's and useful information to help you learn about or manage Fibromyalgia.
"Headway Sussex is an independent charity affiliated to national charity Headway UK. Our aim is to extend further to support people with a brain injury right across Sussex to live well."
"A world where people with lupus can live full and active lives"
Education, publications, helpline and resources to help you learn about and live with Lupus.
A 3-month yoga program specially designed for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis. Also including educational materials where you can learn more about joint pain and treatment options.
"The National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society (NASS) and we are here to transform the diagnosis and care of people living with axial SpA. Axial SpA works silently. We don't."
Management advice, resources and links to local hubs.
"Provide information and support services for those affected by rheumatoid arthritis (RA), their families, friends, carers and health professionals."
Education, community hub, helplines and support.
Helping people all over the world self manage persistent pain
Pain self management is about learning new and using old, skills - trying them out and to see what works for you.
"Improving life for everyone affected by Parkinson’s."
Information and educational resources for the diagnosis, symptoms, treatments and therapies available to those living with or caring for someone with Parkinson’s.
"Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) doesn’t have to stop you from living your life. Although the symptoms of RA can be painful, there are many treatments and therapies to help you take your life back."
Educational resources and home remedies to help you live with RA.
The UK’s largest national charity dedicated to improving bone health and beating osteoporosis. And we’re here for everyone. We equip people with practical information and support to take action on their bone health.
ROS offers a free advice helpline where patients can get in touch with their team of specialist nurses.
"Whether you’re looking for information about your arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions, or you want to support family and friends, we can help."
Ways to get help or get involved including a helpline and links to services in your area.
"WEPP was created by pelvic health physiotherapists to provide easy access to safe and effective exercise videos and useful resources during and after pregnancy. It is a free programme to encourage you to stay fit and well and there is something suitable for everybody including complete beginners to exercise"
East Sussex Recovery Alliance - Living free from adiction.
ESRA provides drug and alcohol recovery services for anyone over the age of 18. Everyone is welcome at ESRA, and they accept self referrals.
"There is a range of support and treatment options available to you. STAR will listen to your needs and ensure your care suits you. Helping adults across East Sussex who are affected by alcohol or drugs."
changegrowlive.org/star-drug-alcohol-service-east-sussex/eastbourne
"This class is aimed at people who are over 60 and afraid of falling, or who have had one of two falls.
It is for those who want to improve their strength, balance and, confidence in performing daily activities, mobility and independence, with a guided exercise programme. The programme we use has been proven in studies to reduce the likelihood of falls in the older population.
Each week (eight-week timetable) the class structure is different to provide variety for both the body and mind."
"From learners to teachers, athletes to coaches, we support people to achieve their best in the water."
Find your local pools and clubs. Learn about the value of swimming for fitness, safety and enjoyment!
Below is a list of local services and organisations that might support your care, learning, wellbeing or interests. These don’t fit into our other categories, but you may still find them helpful. Click on each drop-down for a short description and useful links.
You can also explore East Sussex 1Space — another local directory of care and support services across East Sussex.
"Supporting groups and individuals to improve the quality of everybody’s life."
Advice and guidence on subjects including cost of living crisis, Food and energy, COVID-19 support.
"AirS is an independent charity that exists for all people living in rural areas of Sussex but especially those who are at risk of isolation and/or disadvantage, and for whom rural life brings an additional challenge and cost to their daily lives."
Support and advice on subjects including community housing, Parish and Neighbourhood planning, Research and policy.
"We believe that every person should be able to look forward to later life with confidence; knowing that organisations like ours will always be there to provide help, advice and activities to promote independence and well-being."
Free services include pensions and financial advice, a specialist welfare benefits service, hearing aid battery replacement, will writing and also a variety of paid services including nail care and transport services.
"Age UK’s vision is a world where everyone can love later life"
Offering an advice line as well as several services including befriending, dementia support, handyperson services, social opportunities and much more.
"Enabling Carers throughout East Sussex to have access to free, high quality, volunteer-led support services."
Services including befriending with respite and carer support, counselling, lunch clubs and virtual events.
"Our vision is a world free from the fear of heart and circulatory diseases. We raise money to research cures and treatments, so we can give people more time with the ones they love."
Education and resources, including an advice line.
Care for the Carers (CftC) East Sussex
Do you look after someone who couldn’t manage without your help? CftC are here for you if you need free practical or emotional advice, information & support.
Call – 01323 738390
cftc.org.uk
CSP is a membership organisation of more than 60,000 chartered physiotherapists, associate and physio students. Their website contains information for patients including exercises and information about various conditions.
"We are Diabetes UK. Our vision is a world where diabetes can do no harm. We’re leading the fight against the UK's biggest and growing health crisis. And it's a fight that involves us all – sharing knowledge and taking on diabetes together."
A website filled with educational resources to learn about, prevent or live with diabetes.
"We campaign for the rights of all Disabled people to be included in every aspect of life.
We bring the lived experiences of disabled people to everything we do. We challenge policy makers, institutions and individuals to remove the barriers that exist for us. "
Advice and information, including helplines and factsheets.
Diversity Resource International (DRI) is a non-profit social enterprise that supports ethnically diverse and migrant communities.
"Eastbourne Seniors' Forum decides its own agenda and takes up issues at local level as well as working with other seniors' forums in East Sussex, promoting an 'older voice' at regional and national levels.
Its aim is to encourage the older people to share their views and raise concerns so that their voice will be heard in the planning and provision of services and facilities locally, regionally and nationally."
"Local care and support in one place", East Sussex County Council's directory of services throughout East Sussex.
"To provide independent, professional and inclusive services that engage and empower the public to have their say in the design, commissioning and delivery of public services to generate intelligence and insight from public engagement that supports"
ESCIS is a database of community information and events developed and managed by the Library and Information Service of East Sussex County Council, in association with Brighton and Hove Library Service.
List of services, local events and community clubs, organisation and societies.
East Sussex County Council community pages offer links to resources and advice around several subjects including benefits, emergency planning, housing, grants etc.
"Whether responding to emergencies, working to prevent them happening in the first place or providing support, our firefighters, officers, control room operators, Business and Community safety teams, support staff and volunteers all play their part. We are proud to serve East Sussex and Brighton and Hove City."
East Sussex Floating Support Service
"The Service provides short-term housing-related floating support across East Sussex for vulnerable people, aged 16+, who require support to live independently."
bht.org.uk/services/homelessness/east-sussex-floating-support/
"Supporting individuals and families with the issues that matter most to them, at the same time as working to transform systems and institutions to address the root causes of inequalities faced by Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people."
Headspace was started with one mission: to improve the health and happiness of the world.
Through science-backed meditation and mindfulness tools, Headspace helps you create life-changing habits to support your mental health and find a healthier, happier you.
Holding Space support parents, children and young adults who are struggling with their mental health and normalise these conversations. To offer a safe space for families to come together.
"A group to help combat the effects of loneliness. We run a full calendar of events and whilst we have a different group in each area there is no reason why you cannot join in with an activity in any area. Our events include walking groups, lunches, social get togethers, the theatre, the Blue Bell Railway, castles, gardens and anywhere our members would like to go.
We want to reach out to all those living alone and invite them to join us."
TCV host a range of community services including social prescribing and wellbeing / health walks. "TCV’s guided Health Walks are short, friendly walks lasting no longer than an hour. Anyone can join in. These walks are designed to encourage active lifestyles and would benefit anyone looking to improve their health and wellbeing."
"We provide services and operate out of 13 community hospitals across Brighton & Hove, East Sussex and West Sussex. However, most of our work is provided out in the community in people's own homes."
Including a patient advice and liaison service (PALS) which can help patients, families and carers with questions, comments or concerns about NHS services / facilities / staff.
"Our purpose is to do whatever it takes to support people living with cancer."
"If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with cancer, we're here to help. Find out how we support you and get information about different cancer types."
Men’s Sheds (or Sheds) are similar to garden sheds – a place to pursue practical interests at leisure, to practice skills and enjoy making and mending. The difference is that garden sheds and their activities are often solitary in nature while Men’s Sheds are the opposite. They’re about social connections and friendship building, sharing skills and knowledge, and of course a lot of laughter.
"When you’re living with a mental health problem, or supporting someone who is, access to the right information is vital."
"If you're living with a disability or illness, or looking after someone who is, thinking about money can be worrying, especially if you've had to stop work, cut back your hours or you're facing life on a lower income.
We also look at day-to-day things to help you, whether that’s tips on getting a mortgage or insurance, or grants and entitlements to support you in work or study."
moneyhelper.org.uk/en/family-and-care/illness-and-disability?source=mas#
For statistics regarding hip, knee, ankle, elbow and shoulder joint replacement surgery.
Parents In Mind
"NCT’s Parents in Mind project provides safe, sensitive, impactful perinatal mental health peer support, delivered by local parent volunteers. Support is available to expectant parents or those with a child under the age of two."
"To empower people to have a voice and make a real difference to their lives. We do this by speaking for them when they can't and supporting them to speak for themselves when they can."
"POhWER delivers information, advice, support and advocacy services throughout England. We aim to support people who face difficult issues and want to make their voice heard. All POhWER's services are free, independent and confidential."
Your body, and how you work
The Posturite team is bursting with knowledge about preventing and alleviating back ache, shoulder ache, neck ache, wrist pain and more at work. We call them musculoskeletal conditions. With physiotherapists, sports scientists and ergonomists on the team, we’re on a mission to help you feel better at work.
"Why Re-engage?
As we get older, our social circles diminish, and we find ourselves with fewer and fewer people to turn to. Imagine realising one day that all your friends and family have gone from your life. Loneliness can be cruel, and it affects millions of people over 75 who live in social isolation.
Re-engage is making life less lonely for thousands of older people every year. Older people tell us that our volunteer-led activities make them happier and more able to trust others."
"We want to see a community where people talk openly about dying, live well until the end of their life and where nobody dies alone, afraid or in pain."
"St Wilfrid’s provides support for people with any life-limiting illness towards the end of their lives. We also support their families and carers. This could be in the hospice building, in the person’s own home or a care home."
"We're here to support people to rebuild their lives after stroke. We believe everyone deserves to live the best life they can after stroke."
Access to support and services and links to local resources.
"Community based projects aimed at addressing the needs of those most vulnerable in the community."
SCDA's services include advice and links to opportunities and services offered within the community including Befriending, community gardens, community health, Employment support and Victim support.
"Our long-standing and uncompromising vision is to get more people, more active, more often."
Offering mental and physical health resources and toolkits.
"We Are Undefeatable" is a collective movement supporting people with a range of long-term health conditions. The campaign is developed by 15 leading health and social care charities and backed by expertise, insight and significant National Lottery funding from Sport England. Our purpose is to support and encourage finding ways to be active in a way that works for you and your health condition."
For immediate help
If your life – or someone else’s life – is in immediate danger, please call 999 or go to A&E.
For same or next day help
● You can get help with your mental health in different ways depending on what you prefer. All services are free.
● Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option (also known as the Sussex Mental Healthline) or the Samaritans on 116 123 (both available 24/7)
● Visit a Staying Well service (out-of-hours mental health crisis support service for people aged 18+ available in Eastbourne and Hastings
● Text the word SUSSEX to 85258 (24/7 mental health text-messaging support service)
● Download the Stay Alive app – a suicide prevention resource full of useful information and tools to help you stay safe in crisis.
The following are services that you can either contact directly (details below) or be referred by a GP.
NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression
If you live in Sussex, are over 18 and are struggling with common mental health problems such as feelings of depression, excessive worry, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), you can refer yourself to your NHS East Sussex Talking Therapies: www.healthinmind.org.uk.
Services are free, confidential and provide a wide range of support, including courses, online programmes and one-to-one sessions. They aim to help you understand your symptoms and take practical steps to improve your mental health.
NHS Talking Therapies is unable to provide urgent mental health help or support to people experiencing more severe difficulties with their mental health. Instead, please see a GP who can refer you to the appropriate service.
Mental health support at your GP surgery
If you have a diagnosed mental illness or are having difficulties with your mental health and would like coping strategies to help, you can get support with your mental health from the Emotional Wellbeing Service, or similar service, at most GP surgeries. These services can provide you with information, advice, guidance and support.
Contact your GP surgery to find out what mental health support is available.
You should call NHS 111 or visit NHS 111 online for advice if you – or the person you are concerned about – experience a significant change in your mental health and are not already receiving care from mental health services.
This might include:
● Hearing or seeing things that are not experienced by other people, for example hearing voices
● Having strong beliefs that are not shared by others, for example believing there is a conspiracy against you
● Having excessive energy or movements, sleeping very little
● Behaving in a bizarre and out of character way
● Changes in behaviour like wanting to avoid people, lack of basic self-care.
Whilst these can be normal experiences, they can also be signs of something more serious.
There are lots of ways you can get practical help with issues that may be affecting your mental health.
● Money worries and cost of living support www.eastsussex.gov.uk/community/cost-of-living-support
● Help with housing www.eastsussex.gov.uk/community/housing
● Support for people affected by domestic abuse www.eastsussex.gov.uk//children-families/family-support/domestic-abuse
● Drug and alcohol recovery support www.changegrowlive.org/star-drug-alcohol-service-east-sussex/drugs
Not sure what support you need or would like? There are several community-based groups that can support you with your mental health, whether you have a diagnosed mental illness or need short-term help or advice about your mental health. Find out what’s available in your area.
• Call UOK East Sussex on: 0808 196 1768. Lines are open Monday –Friday 9am – 5pm (excluding bank holidays) or you can arrange a call back by visiting www.uok.org.uk/talk-to-us
• Visit: www.uok.org.uk or www.eastsussex.gov.uk/social-care/health-advice/mental-health/east-sussex-mental-health-directory
• If you are a carer for someone with a mental health difficulty:
www.eastsussex.gov.uk/social-care/health-advice/mental-health/east-sussex-mental-health-directory/carers
Health in Mind is the free NHS Talking Therapies service for people experiencing emotional stress and symptoms of anxiety or low mood. We’re here for all East Sussex residents over 18.
We offer a wide range of support to make seeking help as convenient, quick and straight-forward as possible. From courses & online programmes to a wide range of 1 to 1 therapies, we can be your guide to better mental health.
Visit www.healthinmind.org.uk to find out more.
Having a long-term health condition can be frustrating or worrying at times. It is very common for health conditions to affect how you feel and for your mood to affect your health condition. This can lead to feeling stressed, low, anxious or worried.
Our therapists have specialist training in Long Term Conditions and can help you to manage your condition, learn new skills to improve your wellbeing and enjoy life.
You can find out more here: https://www.healthinmind.org.uk/long-term-conditions
We know it takes courage to talk with someone about how you’re feeling. We offer a safe space where you can do that.
Taking early action to improve your emotional health prevents symptoms worsening and can mean quicker access to treatment. Our advice is to not wait. Our team are ready to help you make positive changes.
You can complete a referral online today at https://www.healthinmind.org.uk/referral
"We can help you drink less"
"Helping you to improve your diet"
Guiding, educating and empowering you to take control of your health and happiness. A service taking a different approach to weight loss and offer a free 12 week digital programme supporting you to change your life, for good.
"We can help you move more"
"Ready to go smoke free?"
"Would you like help to lose weight?"
"Convalescent Care is a term used to describe the short-term support provided by skilled professionals to individuals who are recovering from an illness, operation or injury.
This type of care is goal-orientated with the end goal always being for the individual to regain their independence as well as enough strength to cope without support."
"If you or someone you know has been in hospital or had an illness or fall, you may need temporary care to help you get back to normal and stay independent..."
"Many of our nursing homes around the UK can provide short-term care if you’re recovering from an illness or operation. This is often referred to as convalescent care."
bupa.co.uk/care-services/what-type-of-care-do-i-need/post-operation-and-illness-recovery
East Sussex MSK is not an urgent or emergency service and is not equipped to provide such services. If you require something urgently, please consider the following contacts:
- Call 999 in a medical or mental health emergency.
- Call 111 for non-emergency medical attention.
- Attend at your local A&E – Find your local A&E HERE.
- Sussex Mental Healthline – 24/7 mental health telephone support & information: 0800 0309 500
- Refuge – 24/7 National domestic abuse helpline: 0808 2000 247
- The Samaritans – 24/7 emotional support, call: 116 123
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust – Urgent help in a mental health crisis
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Contact your Doctor’s surgery.
Contact your Doctor’s out of hours number.