Support over Christmas
Action for Carers closes on the afternoon of Friday 22nd of December.
We reopen on Tuesday 2nd January 2024, with our Hubs and events restarting from the week commencing Monday 8th January.
If you need support during this time, Surrey’s official information website, Connect to Surrey has a section called ‘Essential Services over the Festive Period’ – key links from that are below, plus some additional sources of support.
Mental Health and wellbeing crisis
This includes the latest information on the Crisis Mental Health Helpline, Safe Havens (all of which are open over the break), and other financial, welfare and wellbeing support.
This includes GP information and emergency numbers.
Concerns about abuse or neglect
How to report any safeguarding concerns for a child or adult, including domestic abuse help.
Other sources of help
Samaritans
You can also call The Samaritans at any time on 116 123 – calls are free 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.
The Mix
Provides essential support for under 25s, including help in a crisis. More here.
Marie Curie
Marie Curie’s free support line is open, with extended hours, over the festive period, including on Christmas, Boxing and New Years days. The number is 0800 090 2309, and it’s for anyone dealing with grief, bereavement, or caring for someone who is terminally ill, or if you are terminally ill yourself.
General Health
Pharmacists are trained experts and can help with many common problems and GP practices are also here to help.
This link has the holiday opening times for Surrey Pharmacies.
If you’re not sure which service you need, or need urgent advice in the evening, weekends, see www.111.nhs.uk or call 111. In a medical emergency always call 999 or go to the Emergency Department.
Food Banks
The Trussell Trust has information on Food Bank support over Christmas – more here.
Warm Hubs
Surrey’s ‘Warm Hubs’ have some opening during the holidays. These Hubs are community venues like libraries, where you can go to warm up, and enjoy a hot drink, as well as get energy advice and more. You can search by location here, and you’ll find details of opening times over Christmas.