support services for young people over the christmas period

Christmas is coming and for some it is a time for celebrating and having fun. However, Christmas can also bring up a lot of negative feelings. December can be a difficult time for people due to things like past trauma and family problems. Also, a lot of places you would usually go to for support are closed for the holidays and you may not know where to turn to.

However, there are still some services open or partially open over Christmas where you can go to get support with your wellbeing. It’s important to know that you don’t have to go through things alone.

For coping with an eating disorder

Beat

• Helpline: Open 3pm–8pm, Monday to Friday (possibly closed on bank holidays).

• Phone: 0808 801 0677 (free to call).

  
  

For coping with bereavement

Cruse Bereavement Care

• Phone: 0808 808 1677 (free).

• Normal hours: Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri: 9:30am–5pm; Tue: 1pm–8pm; closed weekends.

  
  

For advice and support on domestic abuse

National Domestic Abuse Helpline

• Phone: 0808 2000 247.

• Available: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

  
  

For LGBTQ+ specific support

Switchboard

• Phone: 0800 0119100, open 10am–10pm every day.

• Webchat: Available in the evening

  
  

For mental health and wellbeing

Mind

• Phone: 0300 123 3393.

• Open 9am–6pm Monday–Friday, closed on bank holidays (Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day). Christmas closing hours are available on their website.

  
  

Samaritans

• Phone: 116 123 (free).

• Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including Christmas.

• Email: jo@samaritans.org (responses may take a few days).

  
  

Always check the contact details and opening times on the organisation's website. We have more links to services for young people on our Youth Media website.

And remember, if you or someone you know is in immediate danger, you can call 999.

Everyone here at asphaleia hopes you have the happiest Christmas period possible, and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year!