Call 999
If someone is seriously ill or injured, at risk of harm, a crime is in progress or you need the emergency services urgently, call 999.
Calls are free and you can call from a locked mobile phone.
Call 999.
Help when you need it urgently
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, or you need urgent help with your safety, housing, food or heating, the organisations below can support you.
Emergency Support
Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts, self-harm or feel unable to cope, Samaritans is there to listen without judgement.
Freephone: 116 123, 24 hours a day
Email: [email protected]
Domestic abuse
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, support is available.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247, 24 hours a day.
The NHS also provides advice and links to specialist support.
Homeless or at risk of homelessness
If you have nowhere safe to stay, or you’re worried about losing your home, specialist housing advice is available.
England
Shelter: 0808 800 4444
Monday to Friday: 8am–8pm
Weekends and Bank Holidays: 9am–5pm
Scotland
Shelter Scotland: 0808 800 4444
Monday to Friday: 9am–4pm
Bank Holidays: Closed
Wales
Shelter Cymru: 08000 495 495
Monday to Friday: 9am–2.30pm
Northern Ireland
Housing Advice NI: 028 9024 5640
Textphone: 028 9026 9927
Monday to Friday: 9.30am–4.30pm
Public Holidays: Closed
Local help with food and energy
Your council may be able to help with emergency support for food, money, housing and energy.
Food Banks
If you’re struggling to afford food, a local food bank may be able to help.
Trussell Trust food banks usually require a food voucher from organisations such as your GP, social worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice. A voucher provides at least three days of emergency food.
Check opening hours before travelling. Other local food banks, including churches and community organisations, may not require a voucher.
You may be able to get help with heating costs through:
- The Crisis and Resilience Fund from your local council
- Cold Weather Payments in England, Wales or Northern Ireland if you receive certain benefits
- Winter Heating Payment in Scotland if you receive certain benefits
If you cannot afford to top up a prepayment meter, your energy supplier may be able to provide temporary credit, which you will have to pay back. You may also be eligible for a fuel voucher.