Bedford Signposting Links Summer 2023

Advice Topic Area (A-Z)

Key Organisations

Method of Provision

Addiction

When playing online gambling games, it’s easy to lose track of time and money and get lost in the game.

Check out our advice and support to stay in control of your gambling.

UKNA Meetings

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings in the United Kingdom

Information, advice and support for everyone affected by a parent’s drinking

Free helpline: 0800 358 3456

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

Tel: 0300 123 6600. Text: 82111


Bereavement

Grief can be overwhelming.

You don’t have to deal with it alone

Call our helpline 0808 808 1677



Childcare Provision

Early years and childcare in Bedford


Children’s Services

Our aim is to make sure that children and families get the right support, in the right place at the right time.

https://www.bedford.gov.uk/social-care-and-health/children-and-families


Citizens Advice

Get free, confidential and independent advice on dealing with a range of issues.


Cost of Living help

National help for households

The government is offering help for households. See what cost of living support you could be eligible for.

If you’re struggling financially, help is there. There is support for those on low income or are experiencing a change in financial circumstances


Childline
Telephone: 0800 1111


Debt Concern

Get free, confidential and independent advice on dealing with debt problems.


Domestic Abuse

Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership

NSPCC and others have lists of signs that can help you recognise the effects of domestic abuse on children.

Refuge – For women and children.

The freephone, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline

0808 2000 247


Employment Advice

Help to find work can be found on Gov.UK
Find a Job – to search for current job vacancies

Job Help – provides hints and tips on applying for jobs and job search ideas.

Kickstart offers a six month paid work placement to 16-24 year olds who are in receipt of Universal Credit. For more information young people should send a journal message from their digital account to their work coach to express an interest in the scheme,


Energy Advice

Find advice if you need extra help, have difficulties with your energy supply or want to complain. Save money and get greener with your energy use with our tips on switching, government grants, benefits, and energy efficiency schemes.

Free advice if you need extra help or have difficulties with your energy supply.


Family Health

Oral health – keeping teeth healthy

Make a change today! Discover healthy recipes, food swaps, nutritional advice, and top tips and activities to help the whole family stay healthy.

https://www.nhs.uk/healthier-families/


Family Support Service

Get free and confidential information and advice to help you in your family life.


Food poverty

Find your local food bank.


Housing Advice

Housing advice

If you want to move, or need to move, it is important to plan properly. Think carefully before giving up your home and make sure that anywhere you plan to move to is suitable and affordable for you.


Mental Health

Bedfordshire Talking Therapies

The services are:

  • Adult, older adult mental health and learning disability services
  • Adult rehabilitation and recovery services
  • Child and adolescent mental health services

Hub of Hope – finding the right support


Nutritional Information

Change4Life resources from Public Health England – focusing on healthy eating and physical activity for children.


Reading and Literacy

Libraries in Bedford

Adult help with maths and English

Help with reading for adults and children




Youth Support

Information for young people