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
Shout
Text line only: 85258
Papyrus
Tel: 0800 068 4141
Debt Concern
Get free, confidential and independent advice on dealing with debt problems.
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
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.
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.
How to get a referral to use a 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.
The services are:
- Adult, older adult mental health and learning disability services
- Adult rehabilitation and recovery services
- Child and adolescent mental health services
Nutritional Information
Change4Life resources from Public Health England – focusing on healthy eating and physical activity for children.
Warm Hubs
Warm spaces for local residents
Welfare Support
Extra help and appeals
Youth Support
Information for young people
