Further Support

Urgent Help

In an immediate emergency or if someone is in danger, call 999.

If you need police help but it's not an emergency, call 101.

Childline: A free, confidential helpline for children and young people.

Phone: 0800 1111 (available 24/7)

Domestic Violence and Abuse Support

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse at home or in a relationship, you are not alone. These services in Essex offer free and confidential support.

Contact Details:

Essex Domestic Abuse Helpline:

Phone: 0330 333 7 444 (Helpline available 8 am to 8 pm weekdays, 8 am to 1 pm weekends)

Next Chapter / Safe Steps / Changing Pathways:

Next Chapter Phone: 0330 333 7 444

National Domestic Abuse Helpline24-hour freephone helpline for confidential advice (primarily for women).

Phone: 0808 2000 247 (Available 24/7)

Men's Advice LineConfidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse:

Phone: 0808 801 0327

 Sexual Health Support

These services offer free, confidential, and non-judgemental advice, testing, and treatment for everyone in Essex, including young people.

Essex Sexual Health Service (ESHS)

Free contraception, STI/HIV testing (including home testing kits), emergency contraception, sexual health advice, and the eC-Card Scheme (free condoms for 16-24 year olds).

Phone: 0300 003 1212 (General Enquiries)

Oakwood Place – Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) Free, confidential healthcare, and compassionate support for people of all ages who have experienced sexual assault, including rape. You can self-refer without police involvement.

Phone: 0330 223 0099 (9 am–9 pm, 7 days a week)

Synergy Essex – Rape Crisis Specialist support for victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse.

Phone: 0300 003 7777

 Addiction and Substance Misuse Support

If you are worried about your own or a family member's use of drugs, alcohol, or other substances, you can get free, confidential support.

Essex Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Service (EYPDAS) Free and confidential support for young people (under 25) affected by substance misuse, including one-to-one support, group work, and family support.

Phone: 01245 493 311

YPDAT (Young Person’s Drug & Alcohol Team) Provides treatment and support for substance misuse for young people under 18 in the Southend Borough area.

Phone: 01702 534300

Open Road A charity providing drug and alcohol recovery support in various Essex locations.

Phone: 0844 477 0038 (General Enquiries)

Alateen (Al-Anon Family Groups)Provides support for teenage relatives and friends of alcoholics.National

Phone: 0800 0086 811 (10 am – 10 pm)

 School-Based Support

Don't forget the support available within the school itself. If you feel more comfortable talking to someone you know:

• Speak to a Teacher or Tutor.
• Talk to your Head of Year.
• Speak to the School Nurse or a School Counsellor.

Any staff member you trust can help you access external services or support within the school. All conversations will be handled sensitively and confidentially.