Guide to Services Links and Resources for Health and Wellbeing

Transcription

1 Guide to Services Links and Resources for Health and Wellbeing

2 !!!!!!!!!!! 2! Health!is!a!state!of! complete!physical,! mental!and!social! wellbeing!and!not! merely!the!absence! of!disease!or! infirmity! (World'Health'Organisation)'

3 ! 3! Guide to Services Links and Resources For Health & Wellbeing Contents Introduction - Keeping Well 4-7 Emergency and Crisis Contacts 8-19 Who s Who in the Community Mental Health Service 'Self Help Resources and Websites Local Services and Agencies List of Local Directories Information on Local Groups and Activities Index Survey This is for You - Relaxation CD

4 4! 1. Eat a balanced diet and drink sensibly: Improving your diet can protect against feelings of anxiety and depression. 2. Maintain friendships: Just listening and talking to friends who are feeling down can make a huge difference. So make sure your devote time to maintaining your friendships both for their sake and your own. 3. Maintain close relationships: Close relationships affect how we feel - so nurture them and if there is a problem within a relationship, try and resolve it. 4. Take exercise: The effects of exercise on mood are immediate. Whether it is a workout in the gym or a simple walk or bike ride, it can be uplifting. Exercise can also be great fun socially. 5. Sleep: Sleep has both physical and mental benefits. Physically it is the time when the body can renew its energy store but sleep also helps us to rebuild our mental energy. 6. Laugh: A good laugh does wonders for the mind and soul. 7. Cry: It is good to cry. Even though it may feel terrible at the time, a good cry can release pent up feelings, and people often feel better afterwards. 8. Ask for help when you need it: The longer you leave a problem, the worse it will get. Don't be scared to ask for help from a family member, friend or professional. 9. Make time for you: Do you sometimes feel like you have no time for yourself? Make time for your hobbies and interests. 10. Remember, work isn't everything: Ninety one million working days a year are lost to mental ill-health in the UK so maintain a balance between work and other interests.

5 5! Introduction Welcome to the Directory for Health and Wellbeing signposting you to Services and Resources in Argyll & Bute. This directory has been produced as part of the modernisation of mental health services in Argyll & Bute to aid front line staff and members of the public in finding out relevant information on what resources are available in their area to support people to get well, be well and stay well. Overall, our objective is to promote mental wellbeing and prevent mental ill health. Where people do become unwell we are designing the services to promote independence and recovery. There is no such thing as good health without good mental health Awareness of the importance of Mental Health and Wellbeing is essential in order to recognise and protect our own mental health and that of friends and loved ones. There are many factors that influence our mental health and wellbeing, life has its ups and downs. When things are going well for us, most of us feel mentally and emotionally well. Everyday set backs, long term illness, bereavement, separation, caring for someone, unemployment, family, housing and money problems are just a few examples that can cause us to feel anxious, stressed or depressed.

6 6! It is a well-known fact that 1 in 4 people will experience a period of mental health problems at any time during their life. We are all individuals. We all think and behave in our own way and react differently to stresses and strains. Sometimes it can be hard to deal with things, but with the right help, support and understanding it can be easier to cope with the difficult times. Remember, you are not alone. This directory aims to signpost the reader to the support that is at their doorstep. Good mental health can bring a healthier lifestyle, better relationships and greater satisfaction at work and at home. For comments and updates to this directory, please ABhealthimprovement@nhs.net The most updated version of this directory can be downloaded electronically from the following website: You can pick up a copy at your health centre, or local library. Thanks and appreciation is given to all participating agencies and individuals for their contributions to this directory.

7 7!!!!!

8 8! Crisis Contacts Emergency Phone Numbers Crisis Website Addresses

9 9! Crisis Contacts Emergency Services 999 NHS Breathing Space (24 hours at weekends, Fri Mon 6pm 6am and Mon Thurs 6pm 2am) Samaritans SANEline ( pm) Child Line Domestic Abuse Helpline Rape Crisis Scotland (6.00pm Midnight) (All the above services are open 24 hours a day except where stated otherwise.)

10 10! My Crisis Contacts Name Number Notes:

11 11! Planning for an Emergency or Crisis It s always best to plan for an emergency or crisis when you re not actually in the middle of one. Things to think about are: Who would support me if I had an emergency or crisis Do I have their contact numbers If I have to be away from home, who would water my plants, look after my pets, cancel my paper, empty my fridge, collect my post etc. Some examples could be your neighbour, a family member, a support worker, a minister or spiritual advisor etc. It can also be useful to have numbers at hand for domestic emergencies such as burst pipes, gas leaks, electricity, police etc. You will find them in your local phone directory. There is some space under My Crisis Contacts for contact numbers and you may find it helpful to fill them in now on the previous page.

12 12! The next pages describe some of the emergency services in more detail. NHS 24 Tel: Website: If you are feeling ill now, contact your GP. If you're ill when your doctor's surgery is closed and you feel it can't wait until it re-opens, call NHS 24 on Calls are charged at local rate. The website provides comprehensive upto-date health information and self care advice for people in Scotland. Breathing Space Tel: (24 hours at weekends, Fri Mon 6pm 6am and Mon Thurs 6pm 2am) Website: Breathing Space is a free, confidential phone and web based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety. They are here in times of difficulty to provide a safe and supportive space by listening, offering advice and information. It is our belief and

13 13! hope that by empowering people they will have the resources to recover. Visit their website for information on self help and many links to subjects of interest. Samaritans Contact: Chris P.O. Box 9090 Stirling FK8 2SA Tel: Website: Samaritans provide confidential non-judgemental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. Volunteers offer support by responding to phone calls, s and letters. Alternatively people can drop in to a branch to have a face to face meeting. SANEline Tel: Website: SANEline is a national out-of-hours telephone helpline offering emotional support and information for people affected by mental health problems. Anyone who is worried about their own mental health, or have concerns about a family member, friend or

14 14! acquaintance can access this service. No matter which part of the UK you are calling from, the cost from a landline is the same as a local call. The cost of calling from a mobile may vary and will depend on your network provider. Childline You can contact ChildLine about anything. No problem is too big or too small. Whatever your worry it's better out than in. There are several different ways you can get in touch with us: By calling us on our help line: By looking at our website for chats, ing and other information that cause you concern. Parentline Information and support for parents in Scotland.

15 15! Domestic Abuse Helpline National Helpline or call us on freephone number free from landlines and mobile phones. Womans Aid runs a website and helpline in partnership with Refuge You will find information and help on Rape Crisis Helpline Phone free any day between 6pm and midnight on Local contact: Our helpline offers free and confidential support and information. It is for anyone, women and men, affected by sexual violence, no matter when or how it happened. We can also put you in touch with local rape crisis centres or other services if you need longer-term support. The helpline has a minicom service for deaf or hard of hearing people. We can arrange for language interpreters if your first language is not English.

16 16! Drugs Information! and Helplines National Helpline: Most people don t use drugs and even amongst those that do, emergencies are rare. But no one can be certain how drugs will affect them so there s always the risk that they ll have a bad time, fall ill, hurt themselves or even worse. This website tells you what you need to know should you ever have to help a friend or relative who s having a bad reaction to a drug. This is also a useful website to find out more if you are worried about someone you know who takes drugs or want to find out more about the effects of drugs on your health. Know the Score Drugs Helpline Tel:

17 17! Do you have a friend or a loved one who takes drugs? Maybe you don t want to confront them, you re not sure what to say or how to get them help. There are a range of people you can talk to and services available that offer support. They are there to listen to your concerns, be it about yourself, or someone you know. The Know the Score Helpline on can offer support about how to address drug issues with friends or loved ones and getting advice will give you confidence in talking to that person. Victim Support Help Line Tel: am 8.00 pm Victim Support Scotland is the lead voluntary organisation in Scotland helping people affected by crime. It provides emotional support, practical help and essential information to victims, witnesses and others affected by crime. The service is free, confidential and is provided by volunteers through a network of community based victim and youth justice services and court based witness services.

18 18! Other Helpline Numbers Dementia Helpline (24hrs a day) Cruise Bereavement Care Scotland Drinkline Scotland National Drink Line (24hrs a day) Scottish Families Affected by Drugs National Missing Persons Helpline (24hrs a day) Hopeline UK (Young people suicide prevention) Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm & 7pm - 10pm Weekends 2pm - 5pm The Line (for young people living away from home) GATEPOST This is the first listening and confidential support service dedicated to the farming and land-based community in Scotland.

19 19! My own Support and Helplines Name Number / Web Address! There are more web based support and self-help sites listed in this directory under the various headings. (See Index for page numbers.)!

20 20! Who s Who in the Community Mental Health Service

21 21! You Are Not Alone! Remember that when you are feeling anxious or depressed, you are not alone. There is a host of opportunities and services to support you to Get well, Be well and Stay well It is important that you find a way of dealing with common mental health and emotional problems that is suitable for you with the right kind of support. Our vision is to deliver services to individuals and their families in their local community, to enable recovery from mental ill health and promote wellbeing. The mental health service s aim is to support people who suffer from mental ill health to recovery in order to live a fulfilling live. Seeking help is the first stage of dealing with distress, and those problems which seem insurmountable can often be dealt with very easily in the right hands. Some problems may be more difficult and may take longer to unravel. But it is important to remember that there are people who will have experienced similar difficulties to you and there will be people who can help. The information in this directory may provide you with a guide to help you to find the right support or to help yourself. The following pages describe what services are available through your community mental health service, what the referral routes are and some common mental health problems. The next chapter highlights web links and self help materials that have been developed with you in mind.

22 The Journey 22! A referral to a Primary Mental Health Worker (PMHW) could be made as a result of a visit to your GP or contact with a professional. During the consultation with the PMHW a plan of action is agreed between you depending on the nature, duration and severity of the problem. There are various options such as offering information, some faceto-face or group work or a referral to further relevant psychological support: Sometimes a referral to a specific agency such as a Citizens Advice Bureau, a Housing Officer, Carers Centre or a specific counselling or advocacy service may be the most appropriate route. Sometimes it is about finding out about what s happening in your community and how you can become involved in something that interests you. Many local agencies are connected to the recently launched Argyll & Bute Advice Network (ABAN), which offers a confidential help and referral route of support between various agencies and services. Guided Self Help Workers will help you to access materials on the web, CD form, books or to self help and support groups, help lines, IT access, literacy, leisure activities or any other community based programmes,

23 23! complementary therapies, relaxation, local activities, specific support agencies etc. Talking Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, aim to change patterns of thinking or behaviour that are behind people's difficulties, and so change the way they feel. There are CBT Practitioners available in each area. CPNs (Community Psychiatric Nurses) support people with long term and more severe mental health problems and are often complemented by a Psychologist who offers counselling and coping skills or a Psychiatrist who can prescribe and assesses the effectiveness of drug therapy and review a diagnosis. Link Clubs support people with long standing mental health problems. A Link Club is a place where you can be yourself and feel safe in the company of people who understand how you feel. All link clubs have Mental Health Support Workers who also provide support with the daily tasks of life. Some link clubs accept self referrals, but most work with referrals from the Community Mental Health Teams. Peer Support Workers are trained members of the staff team with personal experience of mental illness. They bring a unique perspective and set of skills to working with service users. Peer Support workers also help address misconceptions and prejudices about people with a diagnosis of mental illness and inform 'professional' thinking around mental health services design and delivery. There are peer support workers in some areas in Argyll & Bute.

24 24! How to get in touch with the service ' Name of Service Contact Your own GP or local Health Centre NHS 24 Tel No. out of hours NHS Community Mental Health Teams 9 am 5 pm Campbeltown Mid Argyll Alzheimers Service/ Social Work Community Dementia Team Social Work (Emergency Out of Hours service ) ACUMEN

25 25! Alzheimer Scotland FREEPHONE Website: Main Local contact: Jean Armitage Post Diagnostic Services Manager Dementia Resource Centre 16 East Clyde Street, Helensburgh G84 7PA Tel: Mobile: We provide local services all over Scotland for people with dementia and their carers. Our local services may include: Day centres providing the chance to socialise and enjoy activities and outings, and giving carers a break Home support services providing company and help to maintain skills and independence at home, while the carer is free to go out (sometimes this is also available overnight) Support groups for carers and for people with dementia Carer education helping carers learn more about the illness and how to cope One-to-one support through local link workers to help people with dementia and their families cope with the illness Welfare rights service Information and advice on a wide range of dementia related subjects

26 26! ACUMEN (Argyll & Clyde United in Mental Health) is a support network that enables mental health service users and carers in Argyll & Clyde to participate as equal partners in the development of services and the promotion of wellbeing and recovery. They hold regular events and gatherings that are organised by a local development worker based in Argyll & Bute. FULL MEMBERSHIP of ACUMEN is open to mental health services users and carers (over the age of 18) who are residents of the Argyll & Clyde area, who have direct experience of mental ill health or who care or have cared for someone with mental health problems. Contact: ACUMEN, Room 2015, Mile End Mill, 12 Seedhill Road, Paisley PA1 1JS Tel: enquiries@acumennetwork.org! Website: Some other websites where you can find out more about mental health problems: (Scottish Association for Mental Health)

27 27! What are mental health problems? Feelings of depression, anxiety or confusion are normal responses to the ups and downs of modern life. A person is described as experiencing mental health problems when such feelings are so extreme s/he has difficulty carrying on everyday life. Depression: It is commonplace to talk about being depressed. But depression defined by a doctor, as clinical depression is a more severe version of this. Anxiety states: Doctors describe chronic fear, tension and panic attacks as anxiety states. The condition is defined as an illness when it becomes an individual s main experience and stops them getting on with everyday activities. Eating disorders: Starving to the extent of severe, sometimes life threatening slimness is diagnosed as anorexia nervosa. Compulsive eating and vomiting is known as bulimia nervosa. Both behaviour patterns are often a way of coping with psychological or emotional problems. Psychosis: Psychiatrists use the term psychosis when someone is unable to distinguish clearly between what is real and what is imaginary, or what is external or internal to their own thought processes. Schizophrenia: The popular understanding of the term, as describing a Jekyll and Hyde split personality, is not true. Doctors use the term schizophrenia to describe a state of mind in which people s sense of their own identity, thoughts and perceptions go beyond the range

28 28! of normal experience. People who hear voices, for example, or believe that they are being persecuted by other people may be diagnosed as having schizophrenia. Bi-Polar disorder/manic-depressive illness: Some people experience profound changes in their mood, which can switch from depression and lethargy to periods of elation and over activity. Doctors call this bipolar or manic depression. Some people may move from depression to elation and back in a week while others may go through this cycle once a year or less often. Dementia: Dementia is caused by a slowly advancing form of brain damage, although the cause of this is often unknown. A person with dementia may become forgetful initially and extremely anxious and confused as the disease progresses. Twenty per cent of people over 80 suffer from dementia. Alzheimer's disease: Alzheimer s disease is the most common form of dementia, which is a group of symptoms associated with a decline in mental abilities, such as memory and reasoning.

29 !! 29! Self Help Resources and Websites

30 30! Self Help Resources & Websites Local Face-to-Face Support There is so much going on in each community that it would be impossible to write it all down in this directory. Your library or local Volunteer Centre will be able to provide you with contact details of groups, local activities and community groups. Your local library has a range of self help books available as well as a list of local addresses, directories and contact details of self help groups, local services and community groups and activities. Pop into your library to find out more about what is available in your area. Your local Health Centre has a range of information leaflets about specific conditions and there are notice boards with posters and help lines. They often keep a supply of the Relaxation CD and the information booklet Steps to Deal with Stress, which is free on request. (You can also download or request a copy from the Steps for Stress website see page 32 for details.)

31 The Internet 31! If you need help with access to the internet, your local Library or Community Centre has computers that can be booked out and they may offer drop-in sessions with support and training. Alternatively a member of staff, a friend or Support Worker may be able to help you to access web based materials at a local drop in.! Are You New The Internet? Once you ve been shown how it works, you d be surprised how easy it is and how it opens up a world of opportunity An Adult Literacy Worker or Volunteer Tutor may also be able to show you how to get started on the internet.

32 32! Web Based Resources This is easily the most user friendly website with short video clips, freebies, quizzes, information, relaxation about stressing less and enjoying life more. Well worth a look!

33 33! Online CBT based Sessions and information Welcome to the STEPS website. We are the NHS primary care mental health team in South East Glasgow.! Although based in Glasgow there is a really good self help and information section, so well worth visiting this site. This site will tell you all about common stress problems and give you some ideas on how best to tackle them. Various problems are described in the 'Stress Wheel' you can see on this page.!!!

34 ! 34! Offers free life skills training based on a CBT model for people with anxiety and depression. There is a section for the general public and one for practitioners and support workers. Local Guided Self Help Workers can support people to use this website. Free self help materials available in both word and pdf format. s/stress_leaflet.pdf Excellent booklet on how to deal with stress, which is downloadable. vice A website full of information and advice on mental health. A Scottish mental health charity that provides a range of self help programmes on line. A free self help program to teach cognitive behavioural therapy skills to people vulnerable to depression and anxiety.

35 Counselling 35! A database of UK counsellors and psychotherapists, with information on their training and experience, areas of counselling covered, fees and contact details. Eating Disorders This UK charity (formerly EDA UK) offers information and advice on eating disorders. Their website has a well-used and well-moderated discussion forum for people experiencing difficulties. They also run separate telephone helplines for adults and young people, a recorded information line and an SMS text information service. Self Harm This site is a key information resource for young people who self-harm, their friends and families, and professionals working with them. Suicide Don't try to cope alone Call one of the help lines under Crisis Contacts in this guide.

36 36! Drugs and Alcohol Clear, up-to-date information and advice on all kinds of drugs and drug-related problems. Talk to Frank provides confidential and honest information on drugs. They operate a 24 hour phone line and service 365 days of the year. Al-Anon Family Groups provide understanding, strength and hope to anyone whose life is, or has been, affected by someone else s drinking. National Association for children of alcoholics (helpline) Provides information, advice and support to children of alcoholics and people concerned with their welfare. A national voluntary organisation for alcohol issues. Alcohol Focus Scotland is committed to improving the quality of people s lives by changing Scotland s drinking culture promoting responsible drinking behaviour and discouraging drinking to excess. Tel: A national organisation offering help and support to people who are trying to overcome their drinking problems. Local groups through-out the country meet regularly to offer practical advice and fellow-ship.

37 37! Young People 'Get Connected' ndbute/pages/getconnected.aspx! This resource provides information, advice and contact details for services based on a wide range of topics. Produced in Helensburgh with local contact details, as well as contacts for national and 24 hour services. The choice of topics featured was informed by young people telling us what information they want access to, and has been written with year olds in mind. However, the information is relevant to a much wider age range including parents, carers, guardians and professionals.

38 38! The TESSA Project is an educational programme delivered in schools throughout Argyll & Bute by Rape Crisis. In addition there is a new website: This website has lots of information on how to deal with harassment, mobile sexting, sexual bullying and abuse.

39 Children 39! ChildLine is the free helpline for children and young people in the UK. Children and young people can call ChildLine to talk about any problem. Call them free on (Open 24 hours a day every day of the year.) Parenting This website provides practical information and techniques on how to respond helpfully to children and young people's troubling behaviour, build up their selfesteem and promote their positive mental wellbeing. Post Natal Depression Tel: Lines are open from 9am-5pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday and from 9am-9pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

40 40! Older People The most comprehensive website for older people We know that growing older doesn t come with a manual, but we do have a range of information guides and factsheets to help you deal with some of the challenges faced in later life. Our information is impartial and easy to digest - it s also free of charge. Call our free information and advice line on to talk to someone. Long Term Condition Management! The Long Term Conditions Alliance Scotland has a vision for Scotland where people with long term conditions enjoy, not endure, full and positive lives. It has information and printable leaflets for many long term conditions.

41 41! WE ARE MACMILLAN Cancer Support Macmillan provide quality assured, up-to-date cancer information, written by specialists for patients, relatives and carers. All their booklets and resources are now free and available to all. Order them from If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just someone to talk to, call free, Monday to Friday 9am-8pm (interpretation service available). MacMillan Nurses are based at Campbeltown Hospital. They can be contacted on

42 42! My own Useful Websites Organisation Website details Notes:

43 43! List of Local Support Services Mid Argyll, Campbeltown Islay & Jura

44 44! Statutory Services Argyll & Bute Council NHS highland - Argyll & Bute CHP Police Service Local Support Services Advocacy Service Carers Support Complementary Therapies Debt, Finance and Savings Domestic Abuse or Violence Drugs and Addictions Support Services Employment & Welfare Rights Information and Advice Family Support Services Housing Support & Homelessness Learning and Development

45 45! Statutory Services These days, the NHS and Argyll & Bute Council work closely together and/or in integrated teams that support people to live as independently as possible in their own home and community. There are also close links to voluntary organisations that provide specialist care in the community. Both agencies provide useful websites, describing their services, local contacts and links to other available services. Argyll & Bute Council Head Office: Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: Website: Social Care This service can offer you unbiased, sympathetic, practical and emotional support in a safe and confidential setting. The service is aimed at vulnerable people of all ages. Contact Phone numbers: During Office Hours Emergency Out of Hours Service

46 46! Telecare Service The Telecare 24 hour, all year round Alarm Service is available to any Argyll and Bute resident who is assessed as being at risk due to age and / or disability and / or social circumstances. This includes people who are: Living alone or living with another vulnerable person Living with a carer or carers where the service is essential to maintain the care arrangements Carers who require support to help look after a dependent Disabled due to a clinical/medical condition such as MS, epilepsy or a heart condition Responsible for a child/children who may be at risk due to the medical condition of their carers Vulnerable when living alone due to a history of domestic violence Isolated or housebound due to disability, regardless of age Contact your local Telecare Outreach Worker: General Enquiries Nancy McLaren Tel: Kintyre/Gigha (includes Campbeltown and all the surrounding villages) Aileen MacLean: or Mid-Argyll North (Lochgilphead, Inveraray, Kilmartin, Crinan) Donna Forbes: or Islay/Jura Lloyd Wells Tel:

47 47! NHS Highland Argyll & Bute CHP Head Office: AROS, Blarbuie Road, Lochgilphead PA31 8LD Tel: Website: Health Hospitals Minor Injuries and Accident & Emergency services are provided 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week in the following hospitals: Campbeltown Hospital: Ralston Road, Campbeltown PA28 6LE Tel: Islay Hospital: Gortonvoggie Road,Bowmore, Isle of Islay PA43 7JD Tel: Mid Argyll Hospital: Mid Argyll Community Hospital and integrated Care Unit, Blarbuie Road, Lochgilphead PA31 8JZ Tel: Argyll & Bute Hospital; Blarbuie Road, Lochgilphead PA31 8LD Tel:

48 48! Occupational Therapy Services This service supports people to live in their own home independently through aids and adaptations. You can be referred by a professional following an accident or hospital admission or self refer by getting in touch with the department. Kintyre OT Department, Campbeltown Hospital Tel: Mid Argyll OT Department, Mid Argyll Community Hospital and integrated Care Unit Tel: Islay OT Department, Kilarrow House, Bowmore, Tel: Mental Health Teams Kintyre and Islay Old Quay Head, Campbeltown, PA28 6ED Tel: Mid Argyll The Caladh Centre, Aros, Lochgilphead, PA31 8LD Tel: Police Ardrishaig Campbeltown Lochgilphead Isle of Islay

49 49! Local Support Services The following pages in this section will describe some of the other local support services that can help when you find yourself in a situation when you need support. In addition, there is a chapter on local directories and how to get hold of them. These directories are written by local people with detailed knowledge of local services. Many of those organisations are members of the Argyll & Bute Advice Network (ABAN) Each member can help you get in touch, refer or signpost you to the most suitable services for your situation via their confidential referral system. Their website shows you which services they cover in their Directory of Members. Website:

50 50! Advocacy Service Lomond & Argyll Advocacy Service c/o Argyll & Bute Hospital, Blarbuie Road, Lochgilphead PA31 8LD Tel: Monthly Drop-In session on the last Tuesday of the month in Campbeltown Burnett Building (Old Library.) The Service currently operates a community based independent advocacy service for adults with learning difficulties, frail older people and adults who use mental health services throughout the area. Lomond & Argyll Advocacy Service is firmly rooted in the communities it serves and has local advocacy support services throughout the area. The Service is FREE, independent and confidential. An advocate s only loyalty is to the person they are supporting.

51 51! Carers Centres & Support If you look after someone, a family member, friend or neighbour then you may benefit from the following information and support: Argyll & Bute Carers Network Rehoboth, 3 Creran Gardens, Oban PA34 4JU Mobile Website: The Carers Network consists of Carers Centres, Crossroads Groups, Carer Support Groups, individual Carers, and other voluntary and statutory agencies who work to bring support to Carers in Argyll & Bute. They are producers of the excellent Carers Directory of Information Now I Know! for Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Isles, which is available from your local library or carers centre. Alzheimers Scotland (See also chapter on Who s Who in Mental Health Services ) Mid Argyll, Kintyre & Islay Community Mental Health Team Dementia, MACHICC, Blairbuie Road, Lochgilphead, PA31 8JZ Tel:

52 52! Crossroads Dalriada & The isles Support organisation Caring for Carers Tel: They offer support, respite care, information, training sessions and drop-ins for carers. Dochas Carers Centre Carer s Room, Gallery and Garden of Hope 50 Campbell Street, Lochgilphead, PA31 8JU Tel: enquiries@dochasfund.org.uk Web: Opening Times: Monday Friday They also offer bereavement counselling. Outreach service is available in Islay. Red Cross o Transport for people either groups or individuals to go to and from appointments or meetings. o Medical Loan of wheelchairs, backrests and commodes on a short term basis up to 6 weeks. o Therapeutic Care is a non intrusive massage done over the clothes; it is stress relieving and can be pain relieving, usually delivered in groups of people. Tel: Anke-Rita Brown arbrown@redcross.org.uk Website:

53 53! Short Break Bureau The Short Break Bureau coordinates short breaks for carers and service users in Argyll and Bute. The service is directed towards adults and older people who have mental health issues, learning disabilities or physical disabilities. The service is run by the Red Cross in partnership with Argyll & Bute Council. Find more information on If you are interested in arranging a break, or would just like to find out more please contact Lynda Barr or Claire MacDonald Tel: lbarr@redcross.org.uk cmacdonald@redcross.org We all need a Break sometimes to re-charge our batteries

54 54! Complementary Therapies Complementary Therapies are increasingly 54ecognized as effective paths to feeling joyful, balanced and healthy. for a list of practitioners and links to their websites or call Anne on or for new members call Lynn on Their whole-body approach means that your therapist is likely to look beyond your symptoms and view your health as a complete system. SOLAS Health represents a wide range of skills and approaches for you to choose from. Our practitioners practice throughout Argyll and some practice in support groups and carers centres. We d love to hear from you. Sue Clayton from SECNAD provides dance movement therapy to individuals, elderly homes, resource centres for the disabled, after school clubs, mother and baby groups, mother and toddler groups, primary and secondary schools, Link clubs, substance abuse rehabilitation units, individual one off group sessions and work in collaboration with other professionals. info@secnad.com Call Sue for more information on Tel:

55 55! Debt, Finance and Savings For confidential advice on debt, contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau (See Information and Advice heading in this section for more details.) Tel: Argyll & Bute Council MONEY ADVICE Oban, Lochgilphead, Campbeltown and the Islands Laura MacKay, Debt Counsellor, Kilmory, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8RT Tel: They offer free, impartial advice on multiple debts and can help people to negotiate affordable payments and set up repayment plans with their creditors, giving more time to pay. Theye concentrate on consumer debt to ensure household bills are able to be paid first. National Debt Advice Line The helpline that provides free confidential and independent advice on how to deal with debt problems.

56 56! Credit Unions are profit sharing, democratically run financial cooperatives which offer convenient savings and low interest loans to its members. The members own and manage their credit union themselves. They offer a real alternative to expensive loan sharks. The three main aims of a Credit Union are: To encourage its members to save regularly. To provide loans to members at very low rates of interest. To provide members with help and support on managing their financial affairs (if required). Scotwest Credit Union 13 Elmbank Street, Glasgow, G2 4PB Tel: / office@scotwest.co.uk Website: You can join over the telephone ( ), on line, via your employer, by post or in person at the Scotwest Office. Islay/Jura Credit Union Port Ellen Collection Point: Every Tuesday, 10.30am 11.30am in the Cybercafé Rear Office Bowmore Collection Point: Every Friday, 12.30pm 1.30pm at the MacTaggart Leisure Centre

57 57! Domestic Violence or Abuse Argyll and Bute Rape Crisis Rape Crisis main local contact: Helpline for Women: Helpline for Men: Website: The Argyll & Bute Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre offers free and confidential face to face, group, telephone and support to survivors (13+) who have been raped, sexually assaulted and/or sexually abused, whether recent or historic. Woman s Aid Emergency Out of Hours Number Tel: Website: Main office Tel: Campbeltown Tel: Woman s Aid offers information, support and refuge (if needed) to women and children (if any) who have been or are being abused by their partner/ex partner. This is a confidential service.

58 58! Drugs and Addictions Argyll & Bute Addiction Services Kintyre Addiction Service: Campbeltown Hospital, Ralston Road, Campbeltown PA28 6BP Tel: Mid Argyll (service covers Islay and Jura): Based at Argyll and Bute Hospital, Blarbuie Road, Lochgilphead, PA31 8LD Tel: Encompass! 45 Chalmers Street, Ardrishaig, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA30 8EY Tel: Encompass Islay and Jura Customs House, Main Street, Bowmore, Isle of Islay PA43 7JJ Tel: Encompass offers community rehabilitation for Adults, Young People, Families and Carers; 1-to-1 counselling and client support in own home to maintain tenancies.

59 59! Kintyre Alcohol & Drug Advisory Service (KADAS) Castlehill, Campbeltown PA28 6AN Tel: KADAS provides general information on alcohol and drugs as well as free and confidential personal counselling. The service is for anyone worried in any way about the use/abuse of alcohol and/or drugs for themselves or a person they care about. A trained counsellor is available by appointment in a suitable location. There is also access to Complementary Therapies. Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Argyll and Bute Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other, so that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. Helpline: ARDRISHAIG MACAD, 45 Chalmers Street, Ardrishaig PA30 8EY (next door to Co-op, enter by back door) Open meeting: Thursdays at CAMPBELTOWN Campbeltown Day Hospital, Stewart Road, Campbeltown PA28 6LE Open meeting: Last Wednesday each month at 8.00 pm

60 60! Employment and Welfare Rights For information on local jobs, career advice, CVs, retraining, redundancy, benefits and government schemes. Skills Development Scotland 4 Castlehill, Campbeltown PA28 6AN Tel: Campbeltown Jobcentre Plus 40 Hall Street, Campbeltown, Argyll, PA28 6BZ Tel: Lochgilphead Jobcentre Plus and Skills Development Scotland c/o Argyll Training Ltd 1 Smithy Lane, Lochgilphead PA31 8TA Tel: (Jobcentre) Tel: (Skills Development Scotland) Welfare Rights Kintyre/ Islay/Tarbert Argyll & Bute Council Community Services Burnett Building, St John Street, Campbeltown PA28 6BJ Tel: james.mccorkindale@argyll-bute.gov.uk Website: Welfare Rights Mid Argyll, Lorn & Isles Argyll & Bute Council Community Services Municipal Buildings, Albany Street, Oban PA34 4AW Tel: !

61 61! Information and Advice (contd) Online Advice guide Housing Information and Advice Line Tel: Argyll & Bute Citizens Advice Bureau (ABCAB) Head Office: Riverside, Oban Road, Lochgilphead, Tel: Website: argyllandbutecab.cas.org.uk The Bureau offers a wide range of services, including money, housing, benefits advice etc. You can click onto their website for a comprehensive guide to advice or use their Drop In Service on the following days: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 10:00-13:00 & 14:00-16:00 Telephone Advice Service Monday - Friday 10:00-16:00 Due to the large geographical area covered by the Bureau they hold outreach sessions in outlaying towns in the Job Centre Plus Offices. Call the bureau for an appointment.

62 62! Family Support Services Befrienders, PO Box 9576, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 9BB Tel: or phone Cathi: Befrienders is an independent voluntary organisation which recruits adult volunteers to offer friendship and support for children aged 7-16 years, living in Argyll and Bute, who are experiencing difficulties in some area of their lives. We are always looking for more volunteers from all walks of life, willing to spend a few hours a week with a child who has been referred to us. Family Mediation Argyll & Bute 26 Alexandra Place, Oban, Argyll PA34 5PU Tel: fms.argyll-bute@btconnect.com They will support contact/mediation in rural areas including the islands when required by clients. Staff and volunteers will travel to the rural places required and hire halls in areas to facilitate supervised contact between children and parents who have separated.

63 63! Homestart Majik Tel: Mob: The Aqualibrium, KinlochRoad, Campbeltown We help to increase the confidence and independence of families by visiting families in their own homes to offer support, friendship and practical assistance. Our volunteers, who are trained and have parenting experience themselves, can offer: Precious time for listening and talking Help with the children A break for parents Practical help and reassurance Support to use local services and resources Parents ask for Home-Start's help for all sorts of reasons, some examples are: They may feel isolated in their community, have no family nearby and be struggling to make friends or they may be finding it hard to cope because of their own or a child's physical or mental illness or they may have been hit hard by a separation or the death of a loved one.

64 64! Housing Support & Homelessness Free Advice helpline Tel: Argyll & Bute Homeless Service Mid Argyll Homeless Service Dalriada House, Colchester Square Lochgilphead PA31 8ST Tel: Kintyre Homeless Service Old Quay Head Campbeltown PA28 6ED Tel: We can help you access useful information and advice on all sorts of issues that may affect your housing security housing options, rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords, security of tenure, money advice, relationship breakdown and much more.

65 65! Young People 2-4 Main Street, Campbeltown PA28 6AG Website: Tel: The project addresses difficulties faced by young people living in Kintyre. KYES provides a safe environment for young people aged between 12 and 25 to enable them to fulfill their potential, through access to information, training and activities. Mid Argyll Youth Project 50a Union Street, Lochgilphead Tel: mayp1@tiscali.co.uk Website: Tarbert youth group Tarbert village hall, Campbeltown Road, Tarbert PA29 6SX Tel: (Heather Bellshaw) Islay Cyber Cafe 30 Mansefield Place, Port Ellen, Isle of Islay PA42 7BJ Tel: cafe@cyberislay.plus.co.uk

66 66! Learning and Development Argyll College and University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) Provides units of study in their local learning centres on a wide variety of subjects at SQA, NC and HNC levels. Call or pop in to pick up the latest course prospectus. Central Information Line: Tel: Cairndow Centre, Here We Are, Clachan, Cairndow PA26 8BH Tel: Campbeltown Centre, Hazelburn Business Park Millknowe Road, Campbeltown PA28 6HA Tel: Islay Centre, Flora Street, Bowmore Isle of Islay PA43 7JY Tel: Lochgilphead Centre, Lorne Street, Lochgilphead PA31 8LU Tel:

67 67! Argyll Training Offers flexible learning for individuals and organisations ranging from vocational qualifications through to short specific courses. Hazelburn Business Park, Millknowe, Campbeltown PA28 6HA Tel: The Attic, Manse Brae, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RA Tel: is an international organisation whose aims are the education and stimulation of retired members of the community - those in the third 'age' of life. National Office Tel: Campbeltown Tel: Mid Argyll Tel:

68 68! Long Term Conditions Multiple Sclerosis Centre Mid-Argyll Campbell Street Centre, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8JU Contact : Karen McCurry Tel: msargyll@btconnect.com Website: Opening Times: Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm Staff and volunteers at the centre aim to improve the quality of life for families affected by Multiple Sclerosis and other debilitating conditions by offering access to specialist support in a positive environment. What s on offer? Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Dance Movement Therapy, Yoga, Polarity Therapy, Hot StonesTherapy, Reflexology, Massage, Counselling!

69 69! List of Local Directories and Where to Find Them

70 70! List of Directories in Argyll & Bute There are many directories about specialist services and information about local groups and activities throughout Argyll and Bute. Some are web based and can be downloaded, some are paper based and are available in libraries, carers centres or health centres. The list that follows is not complete, but it will help you find out more about what is going on in your own area. In addition, your local newspaper, tourist office or newsagent may sell local business directories. Argyll & Bute Advice Network List of member organisation and info on which services they provide in Argyll & Bute. Argyll & Bute Alcohol & Drugs Partnership Directory of Services and contact names in Argyll & Bute. Argyll & Bute Council Directory of local services and community life, events, courses etc. with useful links to other services.

71 71! Argyll Voluntary Action (AVA) Website with information and regular news updates from the voluntary and third sector. You can subscribe to their e-newsletter. For access to their directory listing of groups and voluntary organisations, click Directories and type in all and choose all from the drop down menu. Carers Directory Now I know A very comprehensive local Directory for Carers is available from your local carers centre, health centre or library. Get Connected GetConnected.aspx Information site with information on a wide range of services and health topics. Islay Directories A lovely little guide about the Islay community with much local information. Overview of who is who and what s happening in Islay, Jura, Colonsay and Gigha.

72 72! Kintyre Forum on Community Care Very comprehensive downloadable directory of local and national services in the Kintyre Area. Available from Libraries, the Volunteer Centre and GP Practice. Lochgilphead GP Practice Website Directory of services and clinics with useful contact details and a downloadable practice leaflet. News and events from Mid-Argyll & Kintyre NHS Highland ArgyllButeCHP.aspx Directory about local health services in Argyll & Bute. NHS Inform NHS inform is a new national health information service, providing a co-ordinated approach and a single source of quality assured health information for the public in Scotland with a growing amount of links to local services.

73 73! NHS 24 NHS24 - Health Information and Self Care Advice for Scotland with links to local services. NHS24 - Health Information and Self Care Advice for Scotland with links to local services. NHS 24.com provides comprehensive up-to-date health information and self care advice for people in Scotland, with links to local services. Tarbert GP Practice Website Directory of many services and clinics in Tarbert with useful local contact details.

74 74! Finding out Information on Local Groups and Activities

75 75! Doing things that you enjoy, getting involved, joining a group, having a hobby or special interest, learning a new skill, being active, creative, helping others are all things that make us feel good. Physical activity has the added benefit that it can prevent illness and improve our quality of life. Communities in Argyll & Bute are buzzing places. It would be impossible to write up all the things that are happening in your local area, but the following pages signpost you to some of the things that are out there in your community and how to find out about them.

76 76! There is no doubt about it that taking steps to become involved, to get connected and to take part in activities on offer in your own community will have a positive effect on your mental health and wellbeing Theatre''Drama''Book'Groups''Writers' Groups' Music' Sessions' 'Camera'Club' Painting' Club' ' Art' &' Crafts' Groups' Museums' Birdwatching' Courses' learning' ' Volunteering' ' Lunch' Clubs' Social' Clubs' ' Bridge' ' Community' Gardening''Green'Gym'''WRIs''T ai'chi' Yoga' ' Pilatus' ' Walking' ' Rambling' Climbing''''Jogging''Running''Swimming' Aquarobics' ' Sauna' ' Spinning' Kettlebells' ' Gym' ' Country' Dancing' Old' Time' Dancing' ' Highland' Dancing' ' Line' Dancing''Street'Dancing''Belly'Dancing' Ballet''Keep'Fit''Zumba''Squash''Tennis' Badminton' ' Football' ' Rugby' ' Shinty' Hockey''Cycling''Trampolining'''Sailing' Diving''Surfing''Bowling'''Golf'''Fishing' ''''''''''''''''''and'much''much'more' ' Question'is ' What'would'YOU'like'to'do?' '

77 77! It is a well known fact that people who have supportive and social networks, friends or family, hobbies and interests live happier lives Look Around You, Opportunities Are Everywhere! Events and Celebrations Posters around the town, in shop windows and public notice boards, village halls, local radio and newspapers such as the Argyllshire Advertiser, the Campbeltown Courier, the Ileach and the Oban Times are all useful sources to finding out what s going on in your area. Newspapers and magazines are available for you to read at your local library every day, free of charge. Community Centres Community Centres and Village Halls offer space to a range of groups, clubs, events and activities such as Dance Classes, Sports, Exercise Groups etc. A visit or phone call to your community centre will give you an idea about the activities and courses that are currently happening and how you can join.

78 78! Community Based Adult Learning This is an informal, fun and friendly way of learning within your own community. The main aim of their work is to provide training and/or learning opportunities for people to gain skills which can help them to find employment, progress to further education or participate more fully in their community. You do not need to have any formal education to take part. They also offer literacy and numeracy skills. Everybody is welcome and we are happy to discuss any worries that you might have. WHO CAN TAKE PART? Learners come from various backgrounds, for example, parents returning to work, people in receipt of benefits, people in existing employment facing redundancy or even those just wanting to keep up with new technology. Community Based Adult Learning is also available for Community Groups. Different types of training are available, such as committee skills, minute taking etc. Kintyre Community Education Centre, Stewart Road, Campbeltown PA28 6AT Tel: Mid Argyll Community Education Centre, Manse Brae, Lochgilphead PA31 8QX Tel: or look at their Website:

79 79! Other Centres and Halls Exercise Classes, Community Events, Arts & Crafts, Concerts, Group lets, Parties etc. often take place in Public, Village and Church halls. Most halls have public notice boards with posters advertising activities. Ardrishaig Public Hall, Chalmers Street, Ardrishaig, PA30 8HQ Tel: Campbeltown Victoria Hall, Kinloch Road Campbeltown, PA28 6EG Tel: Clachan Village Hall, Portachoillan (by Tarbert) PA29 6XN Islay Bowmore Village Hall, Main Street Tel: Columba Centre, Gartnatra, Distillery Road, Bowmore Tel: Isle of Jura Craighouse Village Hall PA49 7UN Tarbert Village Hall, Campbeltown Road, Tarbert, PA29 6TX Templar Arts and Leisure Centre, Harbour Street, Tarbert, PA29 6UD Tel:

80 80! Community Gardens & Woodlands There are various community gardens and woodlands in Argyll & Bute that provide an oasis of calm, and a haven for wild life. They welcome visitors and are always looking for volunteers to help with all aspects of gardening and woodland management, walks and events. A great opportunity to learn new skills in a hands on, outdoor environment. Campbeltown Community Garden, Auchinlee Eventide Home, High Askomil, Campbeltown, PA28 6EN Tel: info@ccog.org.uk Website: Islay House and Community Garden Tel: sec.islayhousecommunitygarden@hotmail.co.uk! Tarbert Healing Garden, c/o Tarbert Health Centre, Campbeltown Road, Tarbert Tel: tarberthealth.argyll@nhs.net Blarbuie Community Woodland Lochgilphead Tel: hugh@reforestingscotland.org