Emotional concerns

Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Wellbeing Service is an improving access to psychological therapies service that provides talking therapies and self-help courses for people with common mental health difficulties such as mild to moderate anxiety and depression. Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Talking Therapies is a team of NHS experts, who specialise in treating the kinds of common problems that affect all of us at some time. The service is free and confidential. There is no need to go through your GP — you just need to be registered at a GP surgery in Staffordshire or Stoke-on-Trent.

Specialist Support for couples therapy that are affected by depression. This service helps depressed individuals in committed relationships learn to cope with their depression; they work with couples who are married or partners committed to each other to address a wide variety of issues related to depression. Partners of depressed individuals often want to help, but don’t know how. This will help both members of the couple to better understand depression and how to support one another. Depression can sometimes make having a healthy relationship more difficult; if you are experiencing relationship concerns, those can be addressed as well. Research suggests that this treatment works as well as, and sometimes better than, individual treatment for depression and can also enhance and strengthen relationships

·         Telephone: 0300 303 0923

·         Email: communications@combined.nhs.uk

Website: www.staffsandstokewellbeing.nhs.uk

The Cancer Psychology Services provide specialist psychological assessment and therapy for adults experiencing emotional distress related to their diagnosis and/or treatment for cancer. The Cancer Psychology Services accept referrals from healthcare professionals working in the Cancer Service at the Royal Stoke Hospital, for people living in the Stoke-on-Trent or North Staffordshire areas. If you feel a referral to the service would support you, please speak to your GP or healthcare teams within the hospital.

·         Telephone: 01782 275188 

·         Email: Neuropsychologyadmin@combined.nhs.uk  

·         Website: https://www.combined.nhs.uk/our-services/

The Macmillan Buddy service is free befriending service, that match you with someone who understands what you're going through; they'll give you a weekly telephone call. You can talk to them about how you're feeling and your support needs during this difficult time. The service is delivered by volunteers, who undergo comprehensive training and are fully supported by our staff and lead volunteers. In each case, support is usually provided for a total of up to 8 sessions, and in a number of different languages. The service is offered over the telephone only.

·         Telephone: 0808 808 00 00 

·         Email: contact@macmillan.org.uk  

·         Website: www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/get-help/emotional-help/macmillan-buddies

The Macmillan Support Line is a free and confidential phone service for people living and affected by cancer. Please call: 0808 808 00 00 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm). Macmillan Cancer Support provide services for people living with cancer at every stage of their cancer experience. They provide emotional, practical, physical, and financial support.

. They can help by:

o   Offering emotional support and practical information.

o   Offering financial advice.

o   Giving work guidance.

o   Sharing clinical information.

o   Giving insight into welfare rights.

·         Telephone: 0808 808 00 00

·         Website: www.macmillan.org.uk

Safeena is a UK-based organisation providing cancer support specifically tailored for Muslim communities. It offers emotional, practical, and spiritual support to Muslims diagnosed with cancer, as well as their families and friends. While faith-based, Safeena's services are open to anyone in need.  

·         Email: Contact via online form on website

·         Website: www.safeena.org.uk

The Silver Line Helpline is run by Age UK. It is a free, confidential helpline providing friendship to older people – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year (in the UK). They offer friendship, conversation, and support for people aged 55 or over, especially those who may be experiencing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

·         Telephone: 0800 4 708090

·         Email: email@saltbox.org.uk

·         Website: www.thesilverline.org.uk

The Online HOPE programme is a course designed to support people in developing techniques & strategies to manage aspects of living with cancer. The programme is a 6-week self-management course. It has been co-designed alongside people living with cancer, and is based on positive psychology, mindfulness & cognitive behavioural therapy. Patients will be asked to commit a minimum of 2 hours per week, at a time to suit them. They will need to have access to the internet via smartphone, tablet or PC. They will be able to work through the weekly materials in their own time at their own pace.

·         Telephone: 0808 808 00 00

·         Email: contact@macmillan.org.uk

·         Website: www.macmillan.org.uk

Closer to Home offer FREE short Health Walks every day, in locations around Stoke-on-Trent.  The walks are led by trained walk leaders; they are friendly and fun and try to cater for all abilities.

·         Telephone: 01782 833213

·         Email: winterbottomsue@gmail.com

·         Website: http://www.closertohomewalks.org.uk/

Free emotional befriending service offered via telephone calls. Available for carers and loved ones. Volunteers focus on what's important to you and those close to you. They will listen to how you're feeling without judgment. *Please note: Companion volunteers are available to support anyone with a terminal illness aged 18 or over and their family. Marie Curie is a registered charitable organisation in the United Kingdom which provides care and support to people living with a terminal illness and those close to them, and campaigns for better support for dying people. Call their Support Line on 0800 090 2309 for practical and clinical information and support on all aspects of end of life

·         Telephone: 0121 752 9305

·         Email: support@mariecurie.org.uk

·         Website: www.mariecurie.org.uk

They can provide support by:

o   Offering friendship and support

o   Organising trips and social events for older people

o   Offering care to the terminally ill and their families through end-of-life companionship

o   Providing financial assistance, where able

o   Helping with transport

·         Telephone: 0207 703 3030

·         Website: www.svp.org.uk

Pink Sisters & Misters is one of many local support groups in Staffordshire. They support people who have been diagnosed with all types of cancers – that support is also offered to families and friends that have been affected by their cancer diagnosis.

They provide:

·         A safe space for people living with any type of cancer or friends/family affected by cancer.

·         Befriending

·         Counselling

·         Cancer Information Materials

·         Home visits

·         Telephone: 07786 007315 (Jax Mackenzie, Founder)

·         Email: pinksistersstaffs@gmail.com

·         Website: www.pinksisters.co.uk

Opening times: Tuesday-Friday, 8:30-4pm - The drop-in Centre, 1 Sandon Road, Meir, Stoke-on-Trent, ST3 7DT.

The Cancer Voices Community brings together individual people with personal experience of cancer, which they are willing to share to help achieve change. In partnership with Macmillan, cancer voices share their diverse lived experience to influence our work.

·         Telephone: 0300 1000 200 

·        Email: cancervoices@macmillan.org.uk.

·        Website: www.macmillan.org.uk/volunteering/share-your-experience/cancer-voices

North Staffs Mind has been supporting the mental wellbeing of local people for almost 50 years. MIND is an independent charity affiliated to the Mind network made up of over 100 organisations across England and Wales delivering services, campaigning and giving a voice to people with mental health problems, their families, carers and community. They offer one to one support; support groups; online webchat; supported housing and support for parent and carers.

·         Telephone: 01782 262100

·         Email: reception@nsmind.org.uk

·         Website: www. nsmind.org.uk

The Dove Service is the only grief support charity in Stoke-on-Trent & North Staffordshire, providing services to people within the community from the age of 4+ who are experiencing issues relating to bereavement, loss or life-changing illness. The Dove service offer counselling and other support to people of all ages who have experienced a bereavement, significant loss, life changing or limiting illness. They also work with people who are trying to cope with anticipatory grief, i.e. you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a terminal illness.

·         Telephone: 01782 914455

·         Email: Email from the website

·         Website: www.thedoveservice.org.uk

Cancer Support UK offer practical and emotional support to individuals with cancer during and after treatment. They provide programs like the Cancer Coach, which includes support groups and workshops for those who have completed their treatment. Their services are designed by people who have experienced cancer themselves, ensuring empathy and understanding in their approach.

·         Telephone: 020 3983 7616

·         Email: hello@cancersupportuk.org

·         Website: www. cancersupportuk.org

Shine Cancer Support’s vision is that every adult in the UK living with cancer in their 20s, 30s or 40s can access the help and support that they need in a way that suits their lifestyle, and that they are part of a confident, supportive and empowered community of young adults living with cancer. They provide tailored information and peer support for anyone in their 20s, 30s or 40s diagnosed with any cancer, through a range of activities including lunches and drinks evenings, beach walks, multi-day getaways, workshops, online networking, and mentoring.

·         Telephone: 07804 479413

·         Email: hi@shinecancersupport.org

·         Website: www.shinecancersupport.org

Penny Brohn UK is a cancer health and wellness charity that supports adults with cancer, regardless of their form. With over 40 years of experience, they offer resources and support to manage cancer and improve quality of life. Penny Brohn services are free, accessible through an online registration process or client support.

·        Telephone: 0303 3000 118

·        Email: clientsupport@pennybrohn.org.uk

·         Website: www.pennybrohn.org.uk

Look Good Feel Better is a cancer support charity that offers free workshops and online resources to help women, men, and young adults manage the visible side effects of cancer treatment. The workshops, led by trained volunteers from the beauty and wellbeing industry, provide practical advice on skincare, makeup, and other appearance-related concerns, fostering a supportive and empowering environment.  These workshops empower, motivate, and reduce isolation, boosting confidence and motivation during the cancer journey.

·         Telephone:  01372 747 500

·         Email:  info@lgfb.co.uk 

·         Website:  www.lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk

Life after Cancer brings people together who have finished cancer treatment to form support groups, with an aim to increase their physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing. The support they receive reduces the risk of serious mental distress and helps them to build a positive life after their cancer experience. 

·         Email: hello@life-aftercancer.co.uk

·         Website: www.life-aftercancer.co.uk

For in-patient (hospital) support: The Spiritual, Pastoral and Religious Care Service (Sparc) seeks to support people of all religious beliefs and those with none. No appointment is necessary, the service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Normal working hours are 8.30am – 4.30pm, Monday to Sunday. A chaplain is also available outside these hours for urgent calls and referrals. The Chaplaincy team are based at Royal Stoke and will attend both hospitals to offer support and care. You can speak to a chaplain or religious leader even if you’re not religious. You may wish to be visited by someone from your own belief community. Alternatively, the Chaplaincy team are very happy to contact someone on your behalf. You can contact the SPARC Team for RSUH & County by asking a member of ward staff or by calling 01782 676400. In an emergency you can contact switchboard on 01782 715444 and ask for the Chaplain on-call.

·         Telephone: 01782 676400

·         Email: admin.chaplaincy@uhnm.nhs.uk

·         Website: www.uhnm.nhs.uk/our-services/spiritual-pastoral-and-religious-care-service/

For those who find strength in organised faith – you may find comfort in speaking to your religious leader or members of your place of worship, who may provide a listening ear and guidance.

Support is available in many ways – we have listed below various organisations that may help.

Parents, professional and those affected by the loss of a sibling can find a wealth of information on the Sibling Support Website.  The charity was made by siblings, for siblings. Whilst the site is specifically aimed at young people, there is advice & information that is suitable for everyone whose brother or sister has died. You can find stories from others who have experienced a sibling bereavement or order resources packed full of helpful support.

·         Telephone:  0800 02 888 40

·         Email:  hello@siblingsupport.co.uk

·        Website:  www.siblingsupport.co.uk

Mission Remission is a community who share stories, tips, and support to make life beyond cancer a little less scary and a lot more hopeful.

Cancer treatment ends, but life after cancer can be challenging. Overwhelming exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty can leave you feeling like your old "normal" is gone forever. Mission Remission is a community for survivors to share stories, tips, and support. With over 15,000 members, it's a space to connect and start rebuilding with people who understand.

·         Telephone: 07717562596

·         Email: hello@mission-remission.org.uk

·         Website: www.mission-remission.com

Companionship over the phone: Free emotional befriending service offered via telephone calls. Available for carers and loved ones. Companionship volunteers focus on what's important to you and those close to you. They will listen to how you're feeling without judgment. *Please note: Companion volunteers are available to support anyone with a terminal illness aged 18 or over and their family. Free emotional befriending service offered via telephone calls. Available for carers and loved ones. Volunteers focus on what's important to you and those close to you. They will listen to how you're feeling without judgment. Marie Curie is a registered charitable organisation in the United Kingdom which provides care and support to people living with a terminal illness and those close to them, and campaigns for better support for dying people. Call their Support Line on 0800 090 2309 for practical and clinical information and support on all aspects of end of life

·         Telephone: 0800 090 2309      

·         Email: support@mariecurie.org.uk

·         Website: www.mariecurie.org.uk

Staffordshire Connects is a website with an online directory which connects you to help and support in your local community. It is easy to use and can offer details of care and support services, befriending groups, organisations, local activities, events, clubs and community groups.

·         Telephone: 0300 303 0621

·         Email: staffordshire.connects@staffordshire.gov.uk

·         Website: www.staffordshireconnects.info

Cancer Care Map is a simple, online resource that aims to help you find cancer support services in your local area wherever you are in the UK

·         Website: www.cancercaremap.org

Andys Man Club has free support groups nationwide, running every Monday from 7pm except Bank Holidays. The aim is to provide men with a safe space to open up and feel comfortable to talk in a room free of judgement.

·         Website: www.andysmanclub.co.uk/groups/

Get in Touch about anything that’s troubling you no matter how big or small the issue is - the Helpline is open 24/7.

·         Telephone: 116 123

·         Email: jo@samartian.org

·         Website: www.samaritans.org

CALM run a free & confidential helpline and webchat –7 hours a day, 7 days a week for anyone who needs to talk about life’s problems. The helpline is open 5pm – midnight

Website: www.thecalmzone.net

If you need urgent mental health support but it's not an emergency, you can access it through NHS 111 by selecting the mental health option. This service can provide advice and connect you with appropriate mental health services.

*If you’re caring for a loved one – please click on the Family and Relationship Concerns Section

If you are a carer, or if you are living with cancer and caring for a loved one, you may be facing unique emotional challenges. You're not alone, and there is support available.

There are a range of services, including local, national and specialist organisations, that offer dedicated emotional support for people in caring roles. This can include one-to-one counselling, support groups, financial support and helplines tailored to your specific circumstances.

To find out more, click on the Family and Relationship Concerns or contact the UHNM Macmillan Cancer Support and Information Centre. We're here to listen and to help you find the support that’s right for you.

Staffordshire Together for Carers service is delivered in partnership with a range of organisations committed to supporting carers. They provide information, advice and a wide range of specialist support services designed to help adult and young carers continue in their caring role for as long as they choose and reduce the impact the caring role can have on their own health and wellbeing.  They offer:

·         One to one support

·         Befriending, activities & peer support

·         Training and skills development

·         Online Carers Community Network for Carers to connect with other

·         A 24/7 Carers Help and Talk (CHAT) Line

·         Support to develop emergency and contingency plans

·         Telephone: 0300 303 0621

·         Email: enquiries@staffordshiretogetherforcarers.org.uk

·         Website: https://www.n-compass.org.uk/our-services/carers/staffordshire-together-for-carers-service

NSC provide FREE Services for unpaid Carers in North Staffordshire, this includes:

·         Information and Advice

·         Emotional Support

·         Practical Help

·         Break Opportunities and Social Activities

·         Support to access Benefits and Grants

·         Telephone: 01782 793100

·         Email: info@carersfirst.com

·         Website: https://www.carersfirst.com/home

CareLink is a service that supports over 65s in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire who are struggling with the effects of loneliness and isolation. They provide 'keep in touch' phone calls; welfare checks; home visits; digital inclusion and a range of social activities.

·         Telephone: 01782 810320  

·         Email: carelink@saltbox.org.uk    

·         Website: www.saltbox.org.uk/carelink

Share your experiences, ask questions, seek support and reassurance, meet other people going through similar experiences, read or create blogs about your cancer experience / or join groups on Macmillan’s Online Community. You can access it any time of day or night; or if you’d like to read through people’s posts:

·         Visit: www.macmillan.org.uk/community.

You can also use the ‘Ask an Expert’ service on the Online Community.

Taking care of others
Talking or being understood
Tired, exhausted or fatigued
Uncertainty

Unable to express feelings

Thinking about the future

Regret about the past

Loneliness and isolation

Sadness or depression

Hopelessness

Guilt

Worry, fear or anxiety

Independence

Loss of interest in activities
Memory or concentration
Money concerns
My appearance
Person who I look after
Person who looks after me

Spiritual concerns