We've rebranded! We're now Relationship Works (formerly Relate Avon). Click for more information

We've rebranded! We're now Relationship Works (formerly Relate Avon). Click for more information ⋆

Signposting organisations

Finding the right support

We want everyone to get the help they need. While we're here for many relationship challenges, there are times when emergency or other specialist support is a better fit. 

For example for those currently experiencing severe mental health issues, ongoing domestic abuse, or active addiction, relationship counselling will not be the best approach. We encourage those facing these circumstances to connect with specialised support services listed below. 

This doesn't mean we won't be here later. Once you've accessed the support you need for these urgent issues, relationship counselling may still have a role to play. But your safety and wellbeing come first.

If you are in urgent need of support

Relationship Works is a non-emergency charity focusing on relationships and if you are in urgent need, please contact the emergency services and/or your GP.

The following three services are also available throughout the day and may be able to support you.

  • 111

    england.nhs.uk

    Help & support for anyone via team of specially trained advisers who work in mental health and are supported by Mental Health Nurses (MHNs).

  • 116123

    samaritans.org

    Provide emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide.

    Provide emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide.

  • 85258

    giveusashout.org

    Similar to Samaritans but dialogue is through texting.

In addition, Bristol and Bath councils keep this up-to-date list of support agencies:

Adults directory

Support for adults


Below is also a list of other agencies that may be able to provide support.  Charities funding is often changeable, so please check what services are currently available.

Mental health

  • Mind UK

    0300 102 1234

    mind.org.uk

    Offering online information and support about mental health for all ages to those who are in need and their families.

    Bristol Mind

    0117 203 4419

    bristolmind.org.uk

    Offering counselling for individuals at a fee and phone helpline currently in evenings.

    Bath Mind

    01225 316199

    bathmind.org.uk

    Also have low cost counselling and pre booked evening hub to provide safe space.

  • 0800 068 414

    07860 039967 (Text)

    papyrus-uk.org

    Support line for people (under 35) who are feeling suicidal.  Also provide support to parents, carers & concerned adults.

  • 0800 585858

    thecalmzone.net

    Help & support for anyone feeling suicidal particularly aimed at men.

  • 0117 909 6630

    second-step.co.uk

    In partnership with Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health NHS Partnership Trust.

    Help & support for everyone in Bristol & Bath.

    Have three mental health teams: Assessment and Recovery, Crisis and Early Intervention.

Addictions

Domestic abuse

Sexual abuse / rape

  • 020 3322 1860

    survivorsuk.org

    Provide a helpline and individual and group counselling for boys, men, and non-binary people aged 13+ who have experienced sexual violence.

    Offer emotional support to men going through the justice system in relation to experiencing sexual violence.

  • 0808 500 2222

    rapecrisis.org.uk

    Rape Crisis England & Wales is the feminist charity working to end child sexual abuse, rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment and all other forms of sexual violence.

  • 0808 801 0331

    napac.org.uk

    Supporting recovery from childhood abuse.

  • 0333 323 1543

    safelinksupport.co.uk

    Provide independent support for anyone (women, men, children) who has been the victim of rape and sexual abuse across the whole of Avon and Somerset area.

  • 0117 935 1707

    the-green-house.org.uk

    Specialist support for survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

  • 0117 342 6999

    thebridgecanhelp.org.uk

    Help after rape and sexual assault.

Illness, disability, bereavement and caring

  • 0303 3000 118

    pennybrohn.org.uk

    A cancer health and wellbeing charity helping people feel better in mind, body and spirit by offering everybody with cancer a choice of personalised cancer care. All free, safe and backed by research.

  • 0117 926 4045

    cruse.org.uk

    Free bereavement counselling for children and adults, also offer a helpline service, email and website support.

  • 0117 926 4045

    the-harbour.org.uk

    Counselling service for individuals and couples affected by life-threatening illness. Group therapy also available.

  • 0117 904 5151

    alzheimers.org.uk

    Provides support to people currently living with dementia. They also provide the Bristol Dementia Wellbeing Service.

  • 0117 929 7537

    ageuk.org.uk/bristol

    Provide services for older adults, including advice, social and community groups, befriending, and practical support. Advice is also available for carers and family.

  • 0117 904 5151

    bristoldementiawellbeing.org

    Bristol Dementia Wellbeing Service delivers a personalised package of dementia support to patients across Bristol. This includes healthcare, social and activity groups, practical support, and services for carers.

  • 0808 800 3333

    scope.org.uk

    Disability equality charity in England and Wales. We provide practical information and emotional support.

  • 0117 4626962

    headwaybristol.org.uk

    Headway Bristol is a local charity which offers a services for survivors of brain injuries and their carers.

  • 0117 965 2200

    carersbsg.org.uk

    Support, information and advice to carers of any age living in Bristol and South Gloucestershire.