Support sources

This information has been compiled for those participating in UCL research studies on suicide or self-harm. It outlines support services for people who might feel at risk of self-harm.

Important reminder: Inclusion of an organisation in this list does not guarantee that they will be able to help with your specific problem. Please be aware that information provided on internet sites may not always be reliable and particular caution must be taken when consulting sites claiming to offer medical or pharmacological advice.

Emergency help is available from the following sources

  • Emergency services number: dial 999 for free in the UK
  • Urgent help: dial 111 for free in the UK or use the 111 website
  • Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department: use the NHS Choices site to locate your nearest NHS hospital with an A&E department

Other sources of help

  • General practitioner (GP): You could contact your GP or family doctor, or another member of the practice staff. 
  • Family or friends: You may consider approaching a trusted friend or family member to tell them you are in need of support.
  • Written material: This leaflet, co-produced by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, is available to anyone struggling to cope and in need of advice and support: Feeling Overwhelmed - helping you stay safe 

Voluntary sector organisations

You may consider contacting one of the voluntary organisations listed below.

Samaritans provides confidential non-judgmental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. They offer support via telephone (08457 90 90 90 in the UK), email (jo@samaritans.org), or by using their website to find your nearest UK or RoI branch.

CALM provides a helpline for people who are struggling with suicidal thoughts and includes resources on its website to help people find the support they need.

PAPYRUS is committed to the prevention of young suicide and the promotion of mental health and emotional wellbeing. Their national confidential helpline is for people under the age of 35 (HOPELineUK 0800 068 4141). This offers practical advice on suicide prevention and support for young people who may be at risk of suicide, as well as those who live or work with them.

Self Injury Support offer support to people who self-injure, including peer support, information and self-help tools. They recognise the role and function that self-injury can play in people’s lives at different times and offer a positive experience of seeking help in relation to self-injury. 

The Support After Suicide Partnership lists the organisations providing suicide bereavement support across England at this link: https://supportaftersuicide.org.uk/find-local-support/ 
It also provides information about what to expect after a suicide loss and how to support someone who has been bereaved by suicide.

Crisis helplines 

Ongoing support 

Other resources 

Further information on accessing NHS help for people in England with mental health problems is available on their postcode finder website at: https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/other-health-services/mental-health-support/

Further written information on self-harm is available from: