Healthwatch Archives – Wellbeing South Somerset

Healthwatch Somerset

Somerset Intergroup – Alcoholics Anonymous

Somerset Intergroup is a part of the Alcoholics Anonymous network. They host a number of in-person and online meetings that are open to all.

For more details or find a meeting near you, please visit this website.

Free energy saving advice drop-in sessions – Safe and Warm Somerset

As part of their Safe and Warm Somerset initiative, Centre for Sustainable Energy will be running a number of drop-in sessions across the county for those looking for free advice on how they could help save money on their energy bills this winter.

Sessions taking place in the South Somerset area are:

Boden Centre, Chard, TA20 2AX – first Tuesday of the month, 10am – 1pm
The Balsam Centre, Wincanton, BA9 9HB – first Thursday of the month, 10am – 12pm
The Gateway, Yeovil, BA20 1QN – third Wednesday of the month, 10am – 12pm
Yeovil Library, King George Street, BA20 1PY – third Friday of the month, 10am – 12pm

For more information, call 0800 0385730 or email safeandwarmsomerset@cse.org.uk.

SCARS (Stalbridge Cancer & Recovery Support)

SCARS was set up by Tracy White in 2014 after her cancer diagnosis to offer support to other cancer patients, survivors as well as family & friends.

SCARS run two peer support groups in the South Somerset/North Dorset area:

  • On the last Monday of the month at the The Annexe, Stalbridge Village Hall, Sturminster Newton, DT10 2NF, from 2pm – 4pm
  • On the second Monday of the month at The Balsam Centre, Wincanton, BA9 9HB, from 2pm – 4pm

The groups are confidential, non judgemental, free to attend and are open to all cancer patients. It’s an informal drop in where you can feel safe and supported by like minded people.

SCARS looks forward to welcoming you, and are happy to be contacted if you have any further questions.

For more information, please visit their website.

Family Pride – Support for LGBT+ Families with Intercom Trust

Family life isn’t always easy. Sometimes we could all benefit from connecting with others in similar situations to ourselves but this can be tough when you’re in a minority.

That’s why Intercom Trust have launched a new project – Family Pride Southwest – that aims to strengthen community and family networks with a combination of relaxed fun, opportunities to learn together, and extra support where needed.

Family Pride will help you make connections with other LGBT+ families. (An LGBT+ family may contain one or more parents who identify as LGBT+ and/or one or more children who identify as LGBT+).

To find out more or make a referal, visit the website.

Family Support with Home-Start Blackmore Vale

Home-Start is a charity that has been established for 50 years, supporting families with at least one child under the age of 5 practically and emotionally.

Home-Start’s volunteers offer in-home, judgement-free, 1-2-1 support for families for 1-2 hours a week . The charity also run a Mother’s in Mind group for military mothers who need emotional support and a safe place to talk and be listened to, judgement free, which children are also welcome to attend.

The Mother’s in Mind group runs every Thursday during term-time and holidays from 10am – 12pm at the Birchfield Community Centre, Yeovil, BA21 5RL.

Home-Start have also begun working with DadMatters, encouraging strong bonds between dads and their child(ren) through support groups and advocacy.

This service is currently only available to serving or military families in South Somerset. Families can self-refer themselves, and referrals will also be accepted from any professional.

To make a referral, please visit the Home-Start Blackmore Vale website here.

Happy Healthy Holidays Somerset – SASP

Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership (SASP)’s Healthy Happy Holidays initiative is set to return for the 2023 school winter break as part of the Government’s Holiday, Activity and Food programme. Teaming up with Somerset Council, SASP will deliver a program of activities designed to help tackle inequalities in holiday hunger, physical inactivity, and social isolation for children eligible for Free School Meals.

Young people aged 5-16 are eligible for 4 days of activities between Monday 18 December to Thursday 21 December, with bookings opening on Wednesday 29 November. To book activities, parents and carers will need to have their unique booking code provided by their child’s school or referrer. This provision is for children on benefits related free school meals.

For more information and to find out how to book, visit the SASP website here.

Home Start Blackmore Vale Family Support

Home-Start is a charity that has been established for 50 years, providing practical and emotional support for families with at least one child under the age of 5.

Home Start volunteers offer 1-2-1, judgement-free support for families in their own home. The charity also provide support through Mothers in Mind, a group for military mothers who need emotional support and a safe space to talk and be listened to. Children are also welcome to attend this group, with refreshments and toys available.

This service is currently available to serving (or military) families in South Somerset only, with the potential to be available to all families in the future.

Home Start home visits can be arranged around the availability of the family and the charity’s volunteers. The Mothers in Mind group meets on Thursdays between 10am – 2pm at the Birchfield Community Centre in Yeovil. Both services are free.

For referral forms, professionals and families can visit the website and open the form.

Langport Carers Support Group

Come and meet other people who care for their family or friends in an informal, unpaid capacity. There are regular speakers each meeting, plus a chance to ask your questions and support others by sharing your experiences.

Coffee and tea is kindly supplied by the venue.

4th Wednesday of the month, 2pm – 3:30pm at The Bridge Bakery & Canteen, Westover Trading Estate, Langport, TA10 9RB.

South Petherton Carers Support Group

Come and meet other people who care for their family or friends in an informal, unpaid capacity. There are regular speakers each meeting, plus a chance to ask your questions and support others by sharing your experiences.

There is no cost, but a donation to the church for refreshments is welcome.

3rd Wednesday of the month, 11:15am – 12:30pm at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hele Lane, South Petherton, TA13 5DQ.

For more information, contact Cath on 07951944420.

Tellmi – Mental Health App

Tellmi is a safe, anonymous app for young people where you can talk about absolutely anything. From anxiety to autism, dating to depression, or self-harm to self-esteem, sharing your experiences with their awesome community helps you to feel better.

Moderators check everything to keep their users safe and their in-house counsellors are always on hand for those who need extra support.

Find out more and download the app by visiting the link below.

https://www.tellmi.help/how-tellmi-works

NHS Volunteer Responders – Check in and Chat Service

The NHS has launched their Volunteer Responders Check in and Chat service; phone calls that can provide a listening ear and a friendly chat for those who many have been recently discharged from hospital or are simply looking for some companionship.

If you, someone you know, or someone you care for would like support or have any questions about the Volunteer Responder programme please call 0808 196 3646 (8am to 8pm, 7 days a week)

Happy Mojos – School Holiday and After School Clubs in Somerset

Happy Mojos is a way of life. As a children’s activity provider in Somerset, Happy Mojos use creative play to help support the mental wellbeing of children. In their classes and clubs, children have fun in an environment where they can be still, loud, active, creative and mindful, whilst feeling empowered, nurtured, supported, encouraged and respected.

Their fun and creative play sessions give children the confidence to cope with life around them. They learn how to understand emotions and express themselves; building positive relationships with others, whilst having the best time!

Happy Mojos offer school holiday and after school clubs in Somerset. Visit their website for more information and to find a group near you.

The North Star Group – connecting those living with Autism

A weekly therapeutic support group for individuals diagnosed (or awaiting diagnosis) with Autism. We aim to provide a safe, Autism-friendly, supportive environment which encourages interpersonal connections between members with structured activities including:

· creative activities

· board or group games

· local walks

Every Monday (not bank holidays), 10am – 12pm with a 15-minute interval

St Peters Community Hall, Coronation Avenue, Yeovil, BA21 3DY

Provided by Open Mental Health. Please complete a First Contact Form for a referral to be made to the North Star Group and send to: support@openmentalhealth.org.uk

New Starters: please let us know if you are attending for this first time so we can prepare to welcome you and make sure we’re not out on a walk!

Any queries, please contact Emma Brown.

The Drum Bus – Organic Rhythm

Organic Rhythm has been on a mission to present a range of hands on interactive programs to inspire, educate and entertain all types of audiences for the last 15 years. The Drum Bus is their exciting new project – an American school bus from New York that’s been converted to offer a mobile drumming venue.

This energising, uplifting and stress-releasing activity can connect and bond people and is perfect for team building, conference ice breakers, community building, and more.

Based in Ilminster but ready to travel across South Somerset and beyond, The Drum Bus aims to bring the therapeutic benefits of drumming to you.

Costs vary depending on location so get in touch to discuss.

Singing for the Brain – Ilminster

Singing for the Brain is a service provided by the Alzheimer’s Society where you can meet new people in a friendly, fun and social environment.

Singing can improve your brain activity, wellbeing and mood and you don’t need to be a good singer to benefit. Join for fun vocal warm-ups and sing a wide variety of familiar and new songs in a supported environment.

The group is hosted by skilled, compassionate and experienced group leaders and runs fortnightly on Thursdays from 10am – 12pm at Muchelney House, Abbots Close, Ilminster TA19 0EF.

For more information, get in touch via the details below.

Ara – Recovery 4 All

Addiciton Recovery Agency (Ara) help people to recover from mental health, drug and alcohol and gambling problems.

Their services are free, confidential and proven to help.

For more information on their services, go to their website or get in touch via the details below.

Bumps, Tots & Toddlers

Bumps, Tots & Toddlers is a support group for parents and very young children.

The group meets weekly during term time and is open to parents/carers and their children of pre-school age.

Parents are offered refreshments on arrival and at the half-way point, both parents and children are given biscuits/cake and drinks.

Birthdays are celebrated with cake + candles and game of ‘Pass the Parcel’. As well as plenty of opportunity to play and interact, Bumps, Tots & Toddlers offer craft activities each week, singing & music and a story.

During the winter months, the group meets at Queen Camel Memorial Hall. During the summer months, they meet at St. Barnabas Church in Queen Camel.

The group takes place every term-time Wednesday from 10am – 12pm and charges £2 per family each week.

For more information, contact Morwenna on the details below.

Queen Camel Cares

Queen Camel Cares is a support service for people within Queen Camel for those times when life can appear difficult and overwhelming. Maybe you’re returning home alone following an operation, coping after the loss of a loved one, need help with hospital visits or just need someone to talk to. Get in contact via the details below.

The service is free of charge but a contribution towards petrol for hospital visits is always appreciated.

Thrive – the gardening for health charity

Thrive use gardening to bring about positive changes in the lives of people living with disabilities or ill-health, or who are isolated, disadvantaged of vulnerable. They have over 40 years’ experience of an approach called social and therapeutic horticulture (STH), where trained horticultural therapists work with plants and people to improve an individual’s physical and psychological health, communication and social skills.

If you think Thrive might be of help to you, or you’d like more information, get in contact via the email address below.

Goldies Sing&Smile – GoldiesUK

Join your local Goldies Sing&Smile session for a fun and friendly social sing-along. We sing to the popular hits of the 50s onwards, with artists like Cliff Richard, Tom Jones and Petula Clark. You don’t have to be able to sing, just love music and good company. Goldies sessions are open to all, but particularly aim to combat isolation but older adults.

LOCATIONS:

CHARD – Crowshute House, TA20 2EZ, on the first Thursday of each month from 10.30am

QUEEN CAMEL – Cleaveside Community Room, BA22 7PR on the second Thursday of each month from 2.00pm

SOUTH PETHERTON – Burnworthy House, TA13 5AD on the first Tuesday of each month from 2.00pm

YEOVIL – Mudford Rec Centre, BA21 4AW on various Thursdays (see website for details) from 11.00am

CREWKERNE – The Henhayes Centre, TA18 8DA on the fourth Thursday of each month from 2.00pm

There is a £3 donation fee and carers are free.

Body Awareness class – Crewkerne

Come and enjoy a gentle thorough workout in a friendly and supportive environment.
Suitable and beneficial for all.
Contact Carol.
Speedwell Hall, Abbey Street, Crewkerne
£30 for 6 sessions Wednesday 10-11:15 am
Bring an exercise mat & scarf.

The 5 ways to wellbeing at the Henhayes Centre Crewkerne

A 12-week course covering the 5 ways to wellbeing in a friendly and inclusive group at the Henhayes Centre. Sessions will include a variety of activities to cover the 5 steps to wellbeing. This empowering course is a mix of practical, creative, and workroom-based activities and will help participants:

  • Meet, socialise, and make friends in a safe, secure environment.
  • Have a greater understanding of the 5 ways to wellbeing.
  • Learn new skills, work as part of a team and have a greater understanding of peer support.
  • Identify their unique skills and abilities and make positive life choices.
  • Set their own goals and look to the future with greater confidence, motivation, and hope.
5 Ways to Wellbeing Group at the Balsam Centre, Wincanton

A 12-week course covering the 5 ways to wellbeing in a friendly and inclusive group at the Balsam Centre. Sessions will include a variety of activities to cover the 5 steps to wellbeing. This empowering course is a mix of practical, creative, and workroom-based activities and will help participants:

  • Meet, socialise, and make friends in a safe, secure environment.
  • Have a greater understanding of the 5 ways to wellbeing.
  • Learn new skills, work as part of a team and have a greater understanding of peer support.
  • Identify their unique skills and abilities and make positive life choices.
  • Set their own goals and look to the future with greater confidence, motivation, and hope.
Mudford Rec Youth Club

Mudford Rec Youth Club runs 7.30pm – 9.30pm, term – time only, entry £1.

Liven up your Thursday evenings and come along to the youth club!

Consent must be provided by a parent or carer.

For more information contact: NatalieWalton@ymca-bg.org

Welcome Hubs – CHARIS

CHARIS Refugees, in association with Somerset County Council and other partners, is setting up six Welcome Hubs across Somerset – in Taunton, Bridgwater, Watchet, Frome, Wells and Yeovil.  The Welcome Hubs will help refugees and asylum seekers to become more independent and integrate into the community, as well as provide support to sponsors.  Services on offer will include a confidential safe space, English language lessons, peer support, and signposting to local events, activities and services, such as health and employment.  

For further information about activities and the opening hours for each Welcome Hub, please look on www.charisrefugees.org

You can also contact Alex Melbourne, Welcome Hubs Programme Manager, CHARIS Refugees, 16/17 Hammet Street, Taunton, TA1 1RZ, AlexMelbourne@charisrefugees.org

Yeovil Trinity Peer Group

Yeovil Trinity Peer Group is an open mental health peer support group, offering support and conversation.  Starting 16th September 2022.  Meeting every Friday 10.30am – 12 midday at Yeovil Foyer, Peter Street, Yeovil, BA20 1PN

This Girl Can – Chard

You will have seen it in the media, This Girl Can, an awesome initiative that channels the inner strength of women! Knocking down those barriers together, by dancing, boxing, yoga and many other disciplines in one class. Ideal for beginners and a great way to have a giggle! What more could you want!

Starting Thursday 15th September (and every Thursday after that for 6 weeks) at 09:30. The address : Kelly Leigh Dance studio, Chard,TA20 1PT
To sign up, head here https://inittogethersomerset.co.uk/activity/tgc-classes-chard/

And if you have any questions, please contact Charlotte Norman at cnorman@sasp.co.uk

Tennis – Somerton

Following a previous successful Tennis course, In It Together are proud to bring beginners Tennis back on the project. This is a perfect opportunity to give the sport a try, develop skills and build fitness levels. A well-structured course with supportive and encouraging coaching
Starting Tuesday 13th September at Somerton Tennis Club at 10am (every Tuesday from then on for 6 weeks) Somerton Tennis Club
Gassons Lane, Somerton, Somerset, TA11 6HS
To sign up, head here https://inittogethersomerset.co.uk/activity/tennis-somerton/

And if you have any questions, please contact Charlotte Norman at cnorman@sasp.co.uk

Wincanton Choral Society – Wincanton

We are a friendly, well-established and non auditioned choir that regularly welcomes new members, often with little or no previous singing experience. We find that that the best way to learn is in the company of other, like minded, individuals – and be assured that our charismatic conductor, Katrine Reimers, will bring fun to the occasion as well as satisfaction.

Checkout our Facebook page to see what’s been going on!

The first three rehearsals are free to give you time to get used to us and make some friends.

We meet weekly on Monday evenings, 7.15-9.00pm, from September through to May at The PEC, King Arthur’s School, Wincanton, BA9 9BX.

Parkinson’s Group – Ash

We offer information and support for people affected by Parkinson’s at our friendly group meeting. We often have speakers and there is always time for a chat over tea and a piece of cake, for which there is a small charge (£2.50 per person, including coffee, tea and cake). You are also very welcome to join us on one of our outings. Please note that we don’t meet in August, but may have an outing planned so do check with the group.

Please contact Val for more details.

HOPE for Carers

If you’re a Carer in the South West, you can sign up to the HOPE for Carers programme – a free 6 week online course. Life as a carer can be challenging, by joining our HOPE programme you can meet others in the same situation, improve your confidence, feel more in control and explore any worries you may have.

You can complete the course at your own pace, with support from trained facilitators.

The next course starts on 17 May and you can sign up today! 

Coffee Morning – Crewkerne Library

Free coffee morning at the library. Bring a mug.
Meets every Tuesday, 10am – 12pm. Crewkerne Library, Falkland Square, Crewkerne, TA18 7JS

Money Helper – from the Money & Pensions Service

Impartial money and pensions guidance, backed by government and free to use.
For free guidance you can trust, we can help.

Includes where to access free debt advice here

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice South Somerset is a local charity that provides free, confidential, advice to help people resolve their problems; we also campaign to change unfair policies that help cause these problems.

Volunteers are the life force of our organisation and without them we would not be able to deliver the level of service that we offer.  We have a range of volunteering opportunities available and if you want to know more please visit our website.

Park Run at Frogmary Green Farm

A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it’s up to you!

Free but please register before you first come along. Find out more about parkrun here.

Saturdays at 9am (arrive 10 minutes early).

Frogmary Green Farm, West Street, South Petherton, TA13 5DJ.

Martock Carers Support Group

Come and meet other people who care for their family or friends in an informal, unpaid capacity. There are regular speakers each meeting, plus a chance to ask your questions and support others by sharing your experiences.

The group is free to attend but you will be required to purchase your own refreshments.

1st Thursday of the month, 12pm – 2pm at The Nags Head, East Street, Martock, TA12 6NF.

Keinton Mandeville Carers Support Group

Come and meet other people who care for their family or friends in an informal, unpaid capacity. There are regular speakers each meeting, plus a chance to ask your questions and support others by sharing your experiences and enjoy a gentle activity with the person you care for.

1st Wednesday of the month, 11am – 12:30pm at the Keinton Mandeville Village Hall, Chistles Lane, Somerton, TA11 6ES.

Castle Cary Carers Support Group

Come and meet other people who care for their family and friends in an informal, unpaid capacity. There are regular speakers each meeting, plus a chance to ask your questions and support others by sharing your experiences.

There is no cost but a small donation for refreshments is welcome.

1st Thursday of the month, 10:30am – 12:00pm, The Shambles, Market House, Market Place, BA7 7AH.

Wincanton and Bruton Carers Support Group

Come and meet other people who care for their family or friends in an informal, unpaid capacity. There are regular speakers each meeting, plus a chance to ask your questions and support others by sharing your experiences.

2nd Tuesday of the month, 2pm – 3:30-pm at The River Cale Cafe, The Recreation Ground, Cemetary Lane, Wincanton, BA9 9ED.

Chard Carers Support Group

Come and meet other people who care for their family or friends in an informal, unpaid capacity. There are regular speakers each meeting, plus a chance to ask your questions and support others by sharing your experiences.

There is no cost but a small donation towards refreshments is welcome.

2nd Monday of the month, 10:30am – 12:30pm at The English Martyrs Church Hall, 2 East Street, Chard, TA20 1EP.

Engage Somerset, Inspiring Health Change – Glastonbury and Chard

A six-month health and wellbeing project to support residents not in work. Engage offers specialist coaching, including 1:1 that will move you closer to employment that works for you. Running now until June 2022 in Chard.

Chard Community Coach Julie 07341 002808

Craft Group – Chaffcombe Village

Chaffcombe Village Hall every Tuesday at 2pm

Needlework and Knitting Group – Chard

The Baptist Church Rooms alternative Wednesday afternoons 1.30pm – 4.00 pm.

Crochet Group – Chard

Meet at Eleos Cafe every other Friday, call for details.

Knit & Knatter – Chard
Chard Library – 2.00pm
All welcome.
Bring your knitting, and come for a chat  
Coffee Morning – Chard

Forefront Community Church Coffee Morning every Wednesday 10:30-11:45am. Forefront Community Centre, 42 Fore Street, Chard, Somerset TA20 1QA

Coffee Morning – Chard

Coffee morning at Chard Methodist Church, Thursday mornings 10am – 12pm.

Luncheon Club – Chard

Crowshute Centre, Wednesdays from 12 til 1pm. £7.50 for main course. Contact Tony Prior.

Job Club – Chard
Tuesday & Thursday at Chard Young People’s Centre, 9.30am to 4.30pm appointment only. Call or email Joe.
Mens Shed – Chard
Wednesday 2pm – 5pm, Thursday 1pm – 5pm. 1st month free trial (keen for new members), £12 annual fee + £3 per week to cover both days. Call or email.

Stay Strong Stay Steady Class – Chard

To improve strength and balance, helping to keep you steady on your feet and avoid falls. Email or call for details of class.

Mature Movers – Chard

Fun, fairly active music class aimed at improving strength, balance and co-ordination. Mondays 10.30am. Call Age UK on 01823 345614 for more details.

Walking with St Mary’s – Chard

Limited numbers. Mixed ability (short and long routes). Monday evenings. Contact Hilary on 07941 631839

Angel Company – Langport
Held at The Angel Cafe 10.30am -2pm with lunch £6 per person. Wednesdays.
Angel Eyes – Langport

Drop in session for anyone with poor vision. Held at The Angel Cafe 10.30am – 12 noon. 23/9 21/10 18/11 16/12 Information, advice and support. Call 07927 197455 or email angeleyeslangport@gmail.com

Children’s Autism Outreach Team Coffee Mornings – Langport

Held at The Angel Cafe from Monday 4th October 10am -12pm. Open to parents/carers known to the CAOT who have a current EHA. For support/enquries call Barbara 07584 175261

Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Adviser Service

Our Dementia Support Workers offer information and practical guidance to help you understand the condition, cope with day-to-day challenges and prepare for the future.

Face-to-face, over the phone or in writing they will help you to:

  • Remain independent and stay active for as long as possible
  • Get the information and advice you need to make informed decisions about your wellbeing
  • Find other local services which can help to improve your life

 

Community Cafe Morning – High Ham
Starts 23rd Sept. 10-1pm serving drinks, snacks etc. Everyone welcome. High Ham Memorial Hall.
Red Cross Hut – Langport

Open 10-12pm every day. Hot drinks and shop. Re-homing too for mobility aids, wheelchairs, raised loo seats etc in second hand shop.

Contact Lunches – Fivehead
For those living alone, a chance to get out and meet others. 3rd Tuesday each Month @ Baptist Church Hall. 12.30pm. Call or email Karen
Seated and Standing Yoga – Langport

AGE UK, Mondays 9.30-10.30am £5 01823 345626 CALL TO BOOK. Ridgeway Hall Bow Street Langport TA10 9PQ

Ups & Downs Southwest

Ups and Downs Southwest is a charity supporting children and young people who have Down Syndrome, their families, and all those involved in their care, health and education.

The charity provides conferences and training events for professionals and parents, home visits, advice and assistance with completing forms, accessing various benefits (eg DLA forms) getting an EHCP, youth clubs, pre-school groups and family day events.

Ilminster Carers Support Group

Come and meet other people who care for their family or friends in an informal, unpaid capacity. There are regular speakers each meeting, plus a chance to ask your questions and support others by sharing your experiences.

3rd Thursday of the month, 1pm – 2:30pm at the Monks Yard Cafe (upstairs), Horton Cross, Ilminster TA19 9PY.

Volunteering with Yeovil Rivers Community Trust

Yeovil Rivers Community Trust is a charity specialising in the restoration, preservation and sustainability of the rivers and streams in and around Yeovil. 

Volunteers are central to our work and we encourage the local community to get involved in our projects improving and restoring rivers, streams and ponds and the environment around them. Our aim is to create improved habitat for local wildlife and lovely spaces which can be enjoyed by the whole community, whether it is just sitting admiring the view or using them for recreational or educational purposes. 

During the pandemic, we have seen how engaging with nature and getting out into the Great Outdoors can have a positive impact on our mental health and wellbeing.   We offer a range of volunteering opportunities and outdoor activities which include wildlife habitat enhancements, surveys, litter picking, wild flower planting, invasive plant species clearing, as well as organised nature trails, education events, and a whole lot more.  

Activities are available for everyone, irrespective of age, gender, ability, and it is a great way to get outside, meet people, to learn new skills/hobbies and to make a difference to our countryside. Everyone is welcome and we look forward to seeing you at one of our events.  

For further details please contact Lorne Thomson.

Scottish Country Dancing – Long Sutton

Long Sutton Village Hall, Thurs 7.30-9.30pm. anitaandjim22@gmail.com 01460 929383

Computer Hub – Horton & Broadway

Broadway Hill Methodist Church. 1hr of tech tuition on any device for the cost of a cuppa. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month, 2.30-4.30pm. Contact Sue Parsons.

Womens Institute – Somerton

Parish rooms, 3rd Tuesday of the month at 2.30pm.

Probus Club – Somerton

Somerton sports club, last Wednesday of month 10.30am. long.derek1946@gmail.com 01458 274038

Group of Artists – Somerton

Parish rooms, Market Square. Second Wednesday of month 7.30pm, £5 includes tea or coffee. i_dissagree@hotmail.com

Mid Wessex Singers – Somerton

Mid Wessex Singers is held at West Street Church Hall, Tuesday 7.15 – 9pm.

Friendship Club – Somerton

The Friendship Club is held on the second Thursday of the month at 10.30am.

Ageing Well/Age UK – Somerton

Parish rooms Monday 10.15am Friday 11.30am. £4.50 PAYG ageingwell@ageuksomerset.org.uk 01823 345626

Create and Connect at Acearts – Somerton

Exhibition space, Old town hall. First Wednesday of month 11am – 1pm & 2pm – 4pm.

Supportive Community Choir – Somerton

Somerton Community Choir, all levels, social and fun!

First meeting free, then membership £25.00 per year.

Contact Sue Frost 01458 272836.

Gentle Pilates – Somerton

2nd Thursday of each month. Somerton Sports Club. Call Mo Fletcher 01458 274631.

Stay Steady Stay Strong – Somerton

To improve strength and balance, helping to keep you steady on your feet and avoid falls. Starts June. Email michelle.purnell@ageuk.org.uk or call for details of the class.

Home Library Service, Somerset County Council

Do you know someone who loves reading but is unable to get to their local library for health, mobility or caring reasons?

Somerset HLS is a free service where volunteers can assist you by choosing and delivering books to you at home. Includes: Large print novels, ordinary print books, audio books, shorter novels which are lighter and easier to hold, Non-fiction books e-books, e-audio books and e-magazines.

Love to Pedal – Chair based cycling with virtual bike rides

This adapted cycling opportunity allows people to enjoy moving at home using pedal exercisers and a choice of ten to thirty minute bike rides that have been filmed across Somerset to bring it to life!

Ideal for older adults or those living with long term health conditions, Love to Pedal encourages people to move more in an accessible, safe and enjoyable way. Chair cycling has many health benefits whilst being an effective form of low impact exercise and therefore more gentle on the joints. This makes it a really good choice for people living with osteoarthritis or any condition where weight bearing may be difficult. Pedal exercisers can also improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen the muscles that help us to sit to stand and use the stairs effectively, increase general mobility, support weight management and improve circulation and related conditions.

SASP is working with a number of partners across Somerset to reach those most impacted by Covid-19 to offer the Love to Pedal at home opportunity. Partner organisations include Primary Care Networks (PCNs) who host Health Coaches supporting people one to one and in groups across Somerset, Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, the Stroke Service, Village Agents, Occupational Therapy at Musgrove Park Hospital and Integrated Rehabilitation Therapy teams.

A number of pedal exercisers are available for you or a family member to loan for six weeks alongside our virtual bike rides. Contact your Practice’s Health Coach or one of the partners above to register your interest.

Be-friending Group – Somerton

1st and 3rd week of the month. Meet outside the library at 11.30am. Call Mo Fletcher 01458 274631

Tae Kwon Do – Chard

This is a women’s only (16+) Tae Kwon Do course instructed by Nina Anderson. It is a 6-week beginners’ course, so no experience is necessary.  The first session is free but each one after that is £3 per person.

The 45-minute-long sessions are held @The Unit, 22 Leach Road, Chard TA20 1FA. You don’t need anything else other than some water and some comfortable clothes to move in.

Nina is a fantastic instructor and will look after you the whole way.

To sign up, click HERE.

Community Coffee Mornings – Ilchester

The Coffee Mornings run from 10am to 11.30 am every Wednesday of the year. Drinks and cakes are all £1. Proceeds to local groups & charities. There is a lift. All welcome.
The Court Room at Ilchester Town Hall, High St, BA22 8NQ.

&Breathe – Yeovil

During term time, weekly support groups for parents/carers of children or young adults with learning disabilities in Yeovil.

These run on Wednesdays during term time from 9.30-11.30am from The Winking Frog and the Able2Acheive offices in Princes Street, Yeovil.

Find us on Facebook at Breathe Yeovil.

Family Rights Group

Family Rights Group promotes policies and practices that keep children safe within their family and strengthen the family and community networks of those children who cannot live at home.

We provide advice for parents, grandparents, relatives and friends including kinship carers in England. Our expert advisers are all experienced lawyers, social workers or family rights advocates.

Visit our website for easy-to-follow, online advice or call the freephone telephone service, open Monday-Friday 9.30am – 3pm.

The Filo Project – small group day care for older people

The Filo Project is an award winning not-for-profit social enterprise offering high quality small group day care for older people who are socially isolated and are experiencing symptoms associated with early to moderate dementia.

Transport is included in the service meaning we can support even the most geographically isolated. The intimate environment is key, no client is overwhelmed by a large group. We liken the day with the Filo Project to spending a ‘day with friends’.

Crewkerne Carers Support Group

Come and meet other people who care for their family or friends in an informal, unpaid capacity. There are regular speakers each meeting, plus a chance to ask your questions and support others by sharing your experiences while the person you care for enjoys a gentle activity with a qualified instructor.

The groups are free to attend although you will be required to purchase your own refreshments.

3rd Thursday of the month, 2pm – 3:30pm in the Henhayes Centre, South Street, Crewkerne, TA18 8DA.

Reconnect – support for people with Dementia or memory problems

Reconnect is a free service that offers practical support to people, throughout Somerset, with dementia and memory problems.  We visit people in their homes weekly, usually for approximately an hour, for a maximum of two years. We support people to manage their paperwork and finances and ensure they’re receiving the correct benefits.  We can also support them to access social opportunities, maintain a safe home and find solutions to the issues that memory problems often bring.  Anyone can refer to our service.

We can help you if;
– You live in Somerset
– You are 65 years+ old and experiencing memory loss
– You are under 65 and have a diagnosis of dementia

To access our service, all we require is a completed referral form. Anybody can refer to our service, as long as the person that they are referring agrees to this. We can forward referral forms via the internet, alternatively we are happy to assist people to complete one over the phone.

Spark iT – your digital discovery

Spark iT aims to provide support to anyone in Somerset who wants to access the internet, but can’t currently get online. They do this by:

– Operating and supporting Digital Cafes and other drop-in services in key towns across the county. Click here to find a service near you.

– Accepting referrals from health professionals and charities and providing a one-to-one home and community visiting service. Professionals can click here to make a referral for skills support or our device loan scheme.

– Partnering with community organisations and businesses to help low-income families access digital devices and data.

– Training and supporting staff and volunteers from community organisations to deliver digital support in their own groups and meetings.

– Providing basic digital skills advice by telephone to any Somerset resident who needs it.

Their Helpdesk is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm. Call 01458 550 977.

PLEASE NOTE: Spark iT’s services, including their Digital Cafes, will be unavailable from Monday 11 December 2023 to Friday 5 January 2024. For more information about this winter closure, please click here.

Macmillan Cancer Support

If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with cancer, we’re here to help. Find out how we support you and get information about different cancer types.

Open Mental Health – Somerset’s New Mental Health Service

Open Mental Health is an alliance between the Somerset Foundation Trust and Voluntary Sector Organisations. The aim is to ensure adults in Somerset get the support they need, when they need it.

The lead organisation is The Balsam Centre in Wincanton. Other organisations include Chard Watch, Mind (Yeovil hub), Citizens Advice and Age UK. We also have a Community Support Worker for Eating Discorders. Higher level need can be supported by Second Step.

Examples of intervention / projects available: Housing / Financial advice – Physical Activity – Peer Support – Volunteering opportunities – Eating disorder support – Ecotherapy – Crisis provision

You can self-refer via the Mindline phone numbers below or email.

For more details on Open Mental Health, see here.

Afternoon Tea Club – Stoke sub Hamdon

Social session, alternate Wednesdays 2.30 – 4pm, restarting 9th February 2022. Please call Lyn Foley if you would like to attend. Cost £3.00.

The Lighthouse Cafe, West Street, Stoke sub Hamdon.

Pilates – Crewkerne

Starting Monday 4th October 2021

A class for all abilities aiming to strengthen the body and improve flexibility, general fitness, and wellbeing, while helping to develop control and endurance for the entire body. Pilates puts emphasis on alignment, breathing, developing a strong core (the muscles of the abdomen, low back, and hips), and improving coordination and balance.

Mondays 2:30pm – 3:30pm – £4.00 Members / £6.00 Non-Members . Booking essential.

Dance Fit – Crewkerne

Suitable for all ages, abilities, and fitness. A fusion of different dance & aerobics to give you a fun and enjoyable workout.
Every Tuesday 19:00 – 20:00 – £5.00 per session . Booking essential.

Yoga – Crewkerne

Gentle Yoga – suitable for beginners or those wanting to go at a slower pace.
Thursdays 9:15 – 10:30am

Mixed Ability – a general class, friendly, relaxed and suitable for all, including those new to yoga or with previous experience.
Thursdays 10:45 – 12:00am

Session fee for each – £5.50 (Henhayes members) £7.50 (non-members). Booking essential.

Tai Chi – Crewkerne

Gentle but potent exercise and a calm mind – relax, breate & move. Open to all ages and abilities, including complete beginners.

Tuesdays 2:30-4pm. £7 session fee. Henhayes Centre. Booking essential.

Mindline Somerset – Emotional Support Helpline

Mind have extended the hours of the Mindline phone service during the Coronavirus lockdown. This is now available 24/7.
Their staff can also refer you to specialist support from other local Mental Health charities.

Milborne Port Foodshare

Milborne Port Foodshare is a community project run by volunteers.  It works with the local Coop on Gainsborough to distribute their donations of surplus food free of charge to anyone in the village who can use it.

The project is open on Thursday afternoons from 1.30 to 3.00 pm. It is based in Church House, Bathwell Lane, Milborne Port. 

The project volunteers do not ask for customers’ name or addresses.  The only thing asked is that customers bring their own bag. 

NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme

A record number of people in the UK are living with Type 2 diabetes. This figure has more than doubled since 1996. Sadly many people will experience potentially preventable complications because of diabetes, simply because they don’t know enough about their condition and how to manage it.

The good news is if you’re at risk of Type 2 diabetes there are lots of small changes you can make to prevent diabetes from developing in the first place. The first thing to do is find out if you are at risk.

Find out if you’re one of over 5 million people in the UK who are at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Get Active – NHS Better Health

No matter how much you do, physical activity is good for your body and mind. Adults should aim to be active every day. Some is good – more is better still.

A daily brisk walk can boost your energy, lift your mood and make everyday activities easier.

Try these tools, tips and special offers to move more every day.

NHS weight loss 12 week plan

Download the free NHS weight loss plan to help you start healthier eating habits, be more active, and start losing weight.

The plan is broken down into 12 weeks so you can:

  • set weight loss goals
  • use the BMI calculator to customise your plan
  • plan your meals
  • make healthier food choices
  • get more active and burn more calories
  • record your activity and progress

Don’t worry, the app makes it easy for you – just take it one week at a time. Let’s make “one day” today!

NHS Digital Weight Management Programme

If you are living with obesity and  also have diabetes or high blood pressure, or both, you could benefit from the 12-week NHS Digital Weight Management Programme. You can access the programme through referral from your GP practice. 

It can be hard to keep healthy and active, but the free NHS Digital Weight Management Programme can help you develop healthier eating habits, be more active and lose weight. The programme is available on your smartphone, tablet or computer.     

You can read more about the programme in our leaflet.

Speak to your  GP Practice today to find out how the programme could benefit you. If you do not have diabetes or high blood pressure, you may still benefit from the NHS Better Health programme.

Reiki with Create Calm CIC

Create Calm CIC offers Reiki treatments in the comfort of your own home. Reiki is a very gentle form of touch based healing that transforms pain and discomfort and brings about a general feeling of wellbeing after each treatment. Whatever your ailment, Reiki will support you. Try one session to see how you feel. Treatments are one hour long and include a short verbal check in to start. Create Calm CIC is a Community Interest Company so 30% of your fee goes to a fund to buy yoga mats and meditation cushions for the people in your community. And no-one is turned away for lack of funds. Reiki treatments booked through Wellbeing Sedgemoor are just £6 each.

Anxiety Self Help

Some people are feeling more anxious at the moment, either from the long periods of isolation from the lockdowns or about Coronavirus itself. The following resources may help;

11 tips to cope with anxiety about coming out of lockdown – Every Mind Matters

Anxiety self help – Mind

Anxiety self help for adults – NHS

Stepladder – Stepping Up Men’s Wellbeing In Somerset

Stepladder works with communities, groups and organisations across Somerset to find new ways for men to connect, support each other and get help when they need it.

We hope you can find what you’re looking for here – and do get in touch if you want to know more about our community development work across Somerset or you’d like to share your experiences and expertise.

Kooth Online Counselling for 11-18 year olds

Kooth.com is a free, safe, confidential and non-stigmatised way for young people to receive counselling, advice and support on-line. Kooth delivers thousands of counselling sessions each year to young people aged 11-18. Available until 10pm each night, 365 days per year, completely free.

Stoma Heroes Support Group

This is a peer support group which is led by patients for patients and intends to meet monthly.

It provides a welcoming space to meet people from across South Somerset who have had a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy, share issues and challenges and discuss how to live life to the full. The group also aims to break down the stigma of living with a stoma. Please get in touch to find out when the next group is and for more information. Friends, partners and carers of people affected are also welcome to come along. Contact Shane Green via the details below.

The Huddle, Quedam Shopping Centre (just up from Boots).

Starting 14th September, 1-3pm.

Active Befriending – Walk & Talk

Our free Active Befriending ’Walk and Talk’ service aims to support older people who would like to benefit from fresh air and being more active but don’t feel very confident about going out by themselves.

This is a new Befriending service which sits alongside our Befriending and our Friendly Phone Calls services to offer a more active alternative for those who want it.  The service is free, has been devised and supported by Age UK Somerset, Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership (SASP) and Somerset County Council.

What does the Active Befriending service offer?
After clients have registered they will be matched with a suitable volunteer (depending of course on availability in that area).  Then over an initial 8 week period, clients will be called for by the volunteer each week, who will then take them out for a short walk starting from (and returning to) the client’s home.

Deafinate Matters

We provide advice, guidance and support in matters relating to hearing loss and/or communication difficulties to promote wellbeing. We can provide training and learning opportunities for individuals, organisations etc to raise Deaf awareness and to enable positive communication skills to communicate effectively with others. This includes Deaf Awareness, British Sign Language and other communication courses.

We engage with agencies, organisations and individuals to form working partnerships and collaborate with them to break down barriers for Deaf people. Where we are not able to offer direct advice, guidance or support we signpost individuals to more appropriate services.

FFLAG Bristol – Peer Support For Parents Of LGBT+ Young People

Are you the parent/guardian of an LGBT+ young person? You are welcome to join our monthly group where you can share your experiences and find support from others in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

We are mainly parents offering peer support and learning together about issues facing our LGBT+ young people.

Currently we are meeting via Zoom.

Barnardo’s Reprovide support group for Men

Barnardo’s are offering support to men who want help around anger management and are concerned about violence and abuse within their intimate relationships. The group is ideal for men who want to improve their current or future relationships.  Many men come to the group because they also want to improve their relationships and support for their children and the Reprovide programme has a strong focus on this.

Our FREE groups run weekly on Wednesday evenings in Taunton and Thursday evening near Shepton Mallet.

Those who have completed the programme report that the support group was friendly and gave them a safe and confidential space to talk about many difficult issues.  For many men the group helps them to build and sustain positive relationships and to improve their mental health.

There is no requirement to fill in any referral forms.

Mental Health Apps from the NHS

See the Apps that could help your mental health that have been tested and approved by the NHS. Most are free.

Somerset Big Tent – support for young people

Somerset Big Tent is a partnership of VCSE organisations that provide a range of services including positive activities, therapeutic services and specialist support to increase positive wellbeing and improve mental health within children and young people aged 8-18 in Somerset.  

 All services on the Somerset Big Tent website have gone through a quality and safety assurance process, this means that Somerset Big Tent has met with each organisation and are satisfied with the key documents and information that they have provided us with. 

Early Help – Family Intervention Service

The Early Help offer in Somerset is not just for young children, as problems can emerge at any point throughout childhood and adolescence. The Early Help offer includes universal and targeted services designed to reduce and prevent problems escalating or becoming entrenched.

There are a wide range of Early Help options for support across the county that provide generic or more tailored support based on the concerns presenting. One such team for support is the Family Intervention Service (FIS), which is a specialist county-wide service developed through the joining of established Team 8 and getset level 3 services. It offers support to children and young people from birth up to 18 years and their families where multiple complex issues are present.

The Family Intervention service can also work with families where an individual over 18 has Special Educational Needs, is at risk of homelessness or where younger children are in the home. The team also work to support Young Carers in the county.

If you feel that you and/or your family are in need of support with concerns of behaviour, family relationship dynamics, mental health/emotional wellbeing, substance misuse, domestic abuse, financial or housing support, and/or parenting support FIS could be a service to support you and your family and you can access this by talking to any professional involved regarding making a referral. This could be a GP, School, Health Visitor, Mental health professional, PCSO etc.

Alternatively if you just want to talk, contact us by phone on the number below.

Matt’s Respite Rereats – Breaks For Those Affected By Cancer

Matt’s Respite Retreats is a service providing complimentary breaks for those affected by cancer within Dorset, Wiltshire, Somerset, Bath and North East Somerset. We support those who have been diagnosed with cancer and are undergoing treatment or have received treatment within the last six months or the beneficiary is terminally ill with cancer.

We have the use of a two bedroom static caravan which can sleep up to six (including a pull out double bed in the lounge). The caravan has two bedrooms consisting of a double with En-suite bathroom and a twin room with a bathroom across the hallway.

We offer a three or four-night stay (Mon-Fri or Fri-Mon). Passes for the pools and entertainment complex are being very generously given free of charge by Haven. 

Please visit our website or contact us for a Nomination form or for further information.

Facebook: @Mattsrespiteretreats

Step Change

Our team of debt experts help hundreds of thousand of people a year to deal with their debt problems. With nearly 30 years experience, you can be confident that we can provide the advice and support you need to achieve long-term financial control.

We offer free, flexible debt advice that is based on a comprehensive assessment of your situation. We’ll then provide practical help and support for however long it’s needed.

Crewkerne Community Kitchen

We meet every Friday at 11 a.m. and cook and eat a meal together. Speedwell Hall, Abbey Street. Also give away free food from supermarkets at Bar5 on Thursdays from 10:30.

Parkinson’s UK – Wincanton Support Group

Wincanton Branch of Parkinson’s UK. Our friendly group provides support to people affected by Parkinson’s in the local area, from group meetings, social activities to exercise.  For more information please contact James Loder. 

Your Covid Recovery

NHS website and App to help you to recover after having Covid.

As you find yourself recovering from COVID-19 you may still be coming to terms with the impact the virus has had on both your body and mind.

These changes should get better over time, some may take longer than others, but there are things you can do to help.

Your COVID Recovery helps you to understand what has happened and what you might expect as part of your recovery.

Talk Club

Talk Club is a Talking and Listening Club for men.

It’s a support network for ways to keep mentally fit. 

It’s a community of men looking after each other.

It’s here to remind all men that they are not alone, that other men feel exactly the same way they do, and if we share our feelings we can become mentally strong. 

Together we can change the way we look after our mental health and end suicide.

Be Active at Home – Advice and Tips to Stay Active During Covid-19

SASP have some great ideas and advice on staying active and healthy during the pandemic. There are ideas for families and children, mums & babies, adults, older people & those with long term conditions, adapted activities for people with disabilities and suggestions for getting outdoors.

AbilityNet – Free Tech Support For Older And Disabled People

AbilityNet exists to change the lives of older and disabled people by helping them to use digital technology.

We have a free helpline for tech​nology advice and information. We also have a local team of carefully selected and vetted AbilityNet Technology volunteers who support clients remotely and in their own homes with their technology, whether it’s a laptop, computer, tablet or smartphone.

Healthwatch Somerset

If you’ve recently visited your GP, or local hospital, or used any health and care services in Somerset, we want to hear from you. Whether you’ve had a good or bad experience, we can use your feedback to improve services for everyone and we have the power to make NHS leaders and other care providers listen to what you have to say. We’re completely independent and impartial and anything you say is confidential. We also offer information and advice to help you to get the support you need. Our service is free, simple to use and can make a real difference to people in Somerset and beyond.

Walking & Talking Groups for Young People

MIND in Somerset are offering Walking and Talking Groups for young people aged 11-18 in Yeovil, Langport, and Chard.
The socially distanced walks give the chance to meet with others who may be experiencing similar issues in a safe, friendly and non-judgemental environment. 
To join, complete our self-referral form here and choose the Youth Matters option. 

Create Calm CIC Mental Health Coaching

Create Calm CIC Mental Health Coaching combines 20 years of experience with mental health and Consciousness Coaching. As a trained life coach, I have decided to focus on Mental Health as this particular methodology helps you to gain clarity of thinking and feeling, orient yourself in the direction of good mental health, create milestones and meaningful homework for yourself and learn tools to self coach yourself through mental health challenges going forward. The initial process requires you to commit to 6 sessions, however ongoing coaching is available once this process is complete. Change your Life, Change your Mind, Get Mental Health Skills. Create Calm CIC is a Community Interest Company so 30% of your fee goes to a fund to buy yoga mats and meditation cushions for the people in your community. And no-one is turned away for lack of funds. Coaching Sessions are just £6 each.

Goldies Live – Fun Singalong Sessions!

You can watch the most recent session on our website www.goldieslive.com or catch up with past sessions on our YouTube channel  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCktq1e5exyOQqhfAfdlburg

– CHARD –

On the FIRST THURSDAY of each month

Crowshute House with Joanne McNulty

Crowshute Link, TA20 2EZ

From 10.30am – 11.30am

– ILMINSTER –

On the LAST FRIDAY of each month

Ilminster Parish Hall with Joanne McNulty

North Street, Ilminster, TA19 0DG

From 2.00pm – 3.00pm

– QUEEN CAMEL –

On the SECOND THURSDAY of each month

Cleaveside Community Room

with Jaine Thorne Cleaveside Close,

The Glebe, Queen Camel, BA22 7PR

From 2.00pm – 3.00pm

– BRUTON –

On the SECOND WEDNESDAY of each month

Bruton Methodist Church with Jane Harris

Shute Lane, Bruton, BA10 0BH

From 2.00pm – 3.00pm

– WELLS –

On the FIRST FRIDAY of each month

Elim Connect Centre with Al & Annie Whitley

Portway, Wells, BA5 2BE

From 2.00pm – 3.00pm

– WINCANTON –

Occasional sessions run in partnership with

the Wincanton MHA Live at Home Scheme

Methodist Church Hall with Tara Evans

50 High Street, Wincanton, BA9 9JF

For full details contact Tara on 01963 33588

– MILBORNE PORT –

Occasional sessions run in partnership with Abri Housing

Wheathill Close Community Lounge with Bridget Ashfield

Wheathill Close, Milborne Port, DT9 5EU

Create Calm CIC Yoga and Mindfulness

Create Calm CIC offers Yoga and Mindfulness for all age groups and all levels of experience on a private basis and in community centres. Each lesson is designed for the age group and combines Subtle Yoga (specifically for the nervous system), Hatha Yoga, Reflection, Mindfulness, Meditation and Relaxation.

The benefits of yoga and mindfulness include clarity of thinking, emotional wellbeing, gentle exercise for the body and feelings of calm throughout your life generally. To feel more calm yourself, or if you wish more calm for your child, a relative or friend please be in touch. Create Calm CIC is a Community Interest Company so 30% of your fee goes to a fund to buy yoga mats and meditation cushions for the people in your community. And no-one is turned away for lack of funds. Classes are just £6 each.

Somerset Nature Connections

Somerset Nature Connections project aims to tackle some of the barriers that prevent people experiencing the health and wellbeing benefits of Somerset’s spectacular natural environment. Somerset Nature Connections will help people to access these natural spaces, with a focus on supporting mental wellbeing and physical activity.

Nature Connection and wellbeing courses will be running in Mendip, Quantocks and Blackdown AONB areas. During the courses we will explore the Five Pathways to Nature Connectedness (contact, beauty, emotion, compassion and meaning). You will learn self-care techniques including nature-based mindfulness, sit spots and gratitude, as well as experiencing activities such as natural craft, outdoor cooking, bushcraft and helping out with a variety of conservation tasks.

These courses are for you if you are feeling isolated and/or experiencing mild to moderate depression, low mood, anxiety or stress.

The Somerset Nature Connections project is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and is a partnership project with the Somerset Wildlife Trust, Mendip Hills, Quantock Hills and Blackdown Hills AONBs. The courses are free of charge to participants.

Details of upcoming courses will be advertised on the webpage below. For more info, email us.

HeadFIT for Life

Mental fitness is all about the good management of good mental health. HeadFIT for Life helps defence people stay mentally fit and on top of their game. By the Ministry of Defence and Heads Together.

Carymoor Environmental Trust

Since 1996 Carymoor has transformed 100 acres of capped landfill into a thriving nature reserve. Our nature reserve is the perfect place to connect with nature, learn new skills and to meet people. We use traditional conservation techniques to manage our reserve which help to boost physical and mental health, and to support wildlife on site.

Our visitor centre is surrounded by an orchard, wildflower and sensory gardens, and a vegetable garden, and our nature reserve has a mosaic of different habitats, including meadows, woodland and wetland.

Somerset Sight – Volunteer Visiting Service

Somerset Sight is a charity which has been established for over 100 years supporting people with visual impairment through a number of different services. In 2019 the charity was proudly awarded the Queens Award for Voluntary Service.

As a charity we are dependent upon our volunteers for the provision of our many services, one of which is our prestigious befriending service.

Volunteers provide much needed regular company and conversation, help with reading and correspondence and often take people out for a walk, and a cup of tea. This can develop into a firm friendship that often lasts for a number of years.

New volunteers are fully trained and police checked after meeting the local co-ordinator. The volunteer will then be matched to a local sight impaired person for regular visits. All reasonable expenses will be paid.

If you would like to join our friendly team, please contact us for an informal chat.

Trusted Health & Care Apps – ORCHA

Apps are a great way to get health and mental wellbeing information, helping us to improve our health and live healthier lives. There are so many apps on the market, it can be hard to know which ones you can trust.

That’s why the NHS in Somerset have teamed up with ORCHA (the Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Applications) to create this one website which shows reviewed health and care related apps, helping you to choose the one that works best.

Yeovil 4 Work – Job Club

Yeovil 4 Work is a voluntary programme run by Yeovil Community church that provides support for unemployed people to help them in looking for work. At Job Club we provide a warm and friendly space with free tea, coffee, biscuits and internet connection. Unemployed people are welcome to drop in at any time during a session.

We will give you support in writing or updating your CV, creating an email address, looking for jobs, completing application forms or emails to allow you to apply for them, interview support and any other help that we can.

Helping to inspire, encourage and motivate you and walking the journey with you from unemployment to employment. We will get to know you as a unique person, supporting you on a one to one basis, working with you to help you to achieve your goals to find work and giving you individually tailored support.

Friday mornings from 9.30am to 12.30pm, at The Gateway, 25 Addlewell Lane, Yeovil BA20 1QN

Frank – honest information about drugs

Honest information for everyone about drugs.

Autism Somerset

The Somerset Autism Community Network is dedicated to the needs of all those with an interest in Autism, linking the interests of families, statutory agencies, public and private providers of health & social care.

Martock Parish Council – Community Services

The Community Services Team support a range of services including wellbeing activities, older persons befriending, a job club and support for individuals and families. For Martock Parish residents only.

Time to Change – Let’s End Mental Health Discrimination

It’s hard enough to experience mental health problems, without having to face the judgement, shame and isolation that often surrounds them. That’s why we want to end mental health discrimination.

Time to Change is a growing social movement working to change the way we all think and act about mental health problems. We’ve already reached millions of people and begun to improve attitudes and behaviour.

Mental Health Support for Young People – Young Somerset

We have a team of Wellbeing Practitioners that offer support for children and young people who are experiencing low level mental health difficulties. We are currently offering sessions virtually or face to face.

A parent, professional or young person can request support by visiting: https://www.youngsomerset.org.uk/wellbeing-support

Virtual Youth Club – Twice a day (weekdays) we are running live youth club session on our Instagram. Activities are open to anyone and range from cooking to music and quizzes!

Mindline – We are also part of the Mindline support helpline, offering 24/7 emotional support to people in Somerset. Tel 01823 276892.

For more information, please visit our website.

Looking after your Mental Health – A Simple Guide to Local Services

You can download this useful guide via the link below. Public Health at Somerset County Council produced this.

Ilminster Library Social Group

If you like to play board games but live on your own, join this small friendly group of people who come to play scrabble every Tuesday at Ilminster Library between 2-4pm. No need to book and no charge to play but voluntary donation towards the refreshments served. 

Meets at Ilminster Library, Ditton Street, Ilminster TA19 0BW

Peer Connections

A new mentoring programme across Somerset for people affected by mental illness to give and receive support. Living with mental illness can make people feel alone and isolated – in many ways. Connecting with someone who understands because they too have been affected by mental illness can really help. With a mentor you can talk about what matters, and explore ways to do what you want to do.

We are also looking for volunteers interested in becoming mentors. You will use your lived experience of mental illness as a basis for support. Your role will involve attending pre-arranged mentoring sessions with the person you are connected with. There will be up to eight sessions which can be in person or by phone. You will need to attend a Peer Mentoring Course, over four half days.

For further information or to arrange an informal chat about Peer Mentoring opportunities please contact us.

Companion Calls – Alzheimers Society

Companion Calls are a temporary addition to our Dementia Connect service, which is available year-round, nationwide, to support anyone affected by dementia.

We know many people with dementia are at a higher risk from coronavirus and with restrictions on movement, it can be even harder to get on with everyday things. We have all had to change how we shop, stay active and keep in touch. 

Not being able to leave the house or receive visitors means less social contact with families, friends and communities.  Even carers may not be able to visit as often. We understand the impact that loneliness can have on mental health and well-being.

That’s why we started Companion Calls, where our trained volunteers make regular phone calls to check in and have a friendly chat about anything the person they’re calling fancies. It could be their favourite TV show, the weather or simply to talk about how things are going.  

Please call our Dementia Connect support line on 0333 150 3456.  One of our Dementia Advisers will have a chat with you to find out if Companion Calls are right for you, or if there are other ways we can help.

Companion Calls are a social chat – they do not offer specific dementia support, advice or guidance. If you or anyone you know needs dementia support at this difficult time, contact our Dementia Connect support line.

Somerset and Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Support (SARSAS)

SARSAS is a specialist support service for people in Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, Somerset, and South Gloucestershire, who have experienced any form of sexual violence, at any point in their lives.

SARSAS offer a confidential helpline, regular support sessions, counselling, email support to individuals and an advocacy service.  They also support the family and friends of people affected by sexual violence and offer training and advice to professionals.

The SARSAS helpline currently runs 5 days a week and is available to men and women, boys and girls.  SARSAS accept self-referrals through their helpline and from professions on behalf of people they are supporting. Please note referrals will only be accepted where the person being referred has consented to be referred to SARSAS.

Professionals need to make referrals via the downloadable referral form on the website.

During Coronavirus, our helpline numbers are 0808 801 0456 and 0808 801 0464 and are open to any victim-survivor. Their operating hours are:
• Monday: 11pm – 2pm
• Tuesday: 12pm – 2pm and 6pm – 8pm
• Wednesday: 12pm – 2pm and 6pm – 8pm
• Thursday: 12pm – 2pm and 6pm – 8pm
• Friday: 11pm – 2pm

Chard Men’s Shed

We are driven by a single goal; to do our part in making the world a better place for all.

We strive to bring men together to connect, create, converse and build lasting friendships.

Wednesday afternoons between 2pm and 5pm and every Thursday between 1pm and 5pm for woodwork activities.

Hornsbury Mill, Chard TA20 3DB

South Petherton Lego Club

Come and have fun, use your imagination and meet other Lego enthusiasts.

Children under 8 to be accompanied by an adult. Children over 8 can stay by themselves.

No need to book, just turn up to have some fun!

£1 (a drink and biscuit included)

Every Saturday morning: 9.45-10.45, at South Petherton Library.

Luncheon Club – South Petherton

The South Petherton Luncheon Club takes place very Tuesday and Thursday from 12.30pm-1.30pm at the Coke Memorial Methodist Church Hall on Palmer Street, South Petherton, TA13 5DB. Transport is available to those who need it.

For more information, please call the number below.

Age UK Somerset – Memory Connections

‘Memory Connections’ is our Dementia Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (MCST) weekly programme of meaningful and stimulating activities for people living with mild to moderate dementia. 

A Memory Connections group session offers its members a range of enjoyable activities providing general stimulation for thinking, concentration and memory. Each week we will cover different themes and topics such as; Life History, Current Affairs, Word Games, Physical activity, Music, Creativity and much more. We aim for the sessions to group led, our members can even choose topics/themes they would enjoy discussing to encourage a greater engagement and enthusiasm.

Our trained specialist team deliver the sessions, group members are encouraged to engage in a wide variety of activities to promote the maintenance of an active and stimulated mind.

Memory Connections (Dementia MCST) can accommodate people with or without a formal dementia diagnosis; please speak to our friendly team for further information.

Participants can attend face-to-face group sessions or virtual sessions at home using Zoom. 

Dementia Friendly Mondays – Langport

11.15am meet at The Angel Cafe. Drinks, sing song, games and lunch. For anyone who is living with Dementia or has memory problems.

South Somerset Community Choir

South Somerset Community Choir rehearses on Monday evenings during term time from 7pm to 9pm in Crewkerne Methodist Church, South Street, Crewkerne.

The choir sings a wide range of music from show tunes to popular songs and folk pieces to classical works and is open to singers of all abilities.

New members are always welcome.

Crewkerne Shed

Woodwork and craft activities, sharing skills, experiences, ideas and tools with like-minded people. Open to all. Nice crafting room upstairs.

Tuesday from 10 am – 1 pm,  Thursdays from 1 pm – 4 pm.

14a East Street, Crewkerne.

Henhayes Knitters

Henhayes Knitters meet every Tuesday for a get together for knitting and nattering whilst raising funds for the Henhayes Centre. All ages and abilities welcome.

Every Tuesday, 14:00 to 16:00 at the Henhayes Centre, Crewkerne.

Somerset Wellbeing Friends

Somerset Wellbeing Friends provided by Mind in Somerset

Focusing on improving life skills, promoting coping strategies and tackling loneliness.
They also offer support for those affected by mental health issues. Everyone is welcome to come, learn and make friends!

Bridgwater- The Engine Room- Every Monday 10am-12pm
Taunton- The Albemarie Centre- Every Monday 2pm-4pm
Yeovil- St Mark’s Church- Every Tuesday 11am-1pm
Frome- Cheese and Grain- Every Tuesday 2.30pm-4.30pm
Minehead- Quaker Meeting House- Every Thursday 11am-1pm

GP Helpers scheme – Queen Camel

If you live in Queen Camel or neighbouring villages you may be able to access a volunteer befriender who can visit you regularly. Contact Health Coach Marie for more details.

Parent and Carer Toolkit

The Parent Carer Toolkit has been compiled and developed by Public Health and Somerset families. It supports parents and carers to find the information they need to help them with the job of ‘being a parent’.

Somerset Mental Wellbeing Service

Somerset Mental Wellbeing Service supports people to improve and maintain their mental wellbeing through access to community resources and opportunities. We are a ‘low level’ service that supports and works with people with an underlying mental health condition to improve their mental wellbeing by accessing wider community resources, building networks and increasing independence.

The service is available to those who wish to improve their mental wellbeing to reduce the impact on their lives with meaningful support. Our service cannot replace other services that are established to directly tackle mental health conditions, but if someone’s able and at a level where they can engage then we can work alongside other services. The service is delivered via ‘Wellbeing Navigators’, Peer Support and Self-Management workshops.

Wellbeing Navigators will work with you to identify, create and develop a personalised Wellbeing Recovery Plan:

  • Identifying what you want to achieve,
  • what you will do to achieve this,
  • what support you need to achieve this,
  • what you need to do to stay well,
  • what to do if something goes wrong and
  • working with you in a way that puts you in control and is about how you self-manage your wellbeing.

Self-Management and Peer Support workshops are run in your local area, contact us for more information.

We will work with you for a time limited period to achieve your personal outcomes and during this period enable you to develop the skills, strategies and networks to move on from the service.

Happy Cafe – Westfield Community Centre, Yeovil

Join others in the Community for a morning of friendship, fun and positivity. We offer a warm and welcoming space in Westfield’s brand new Community Centre. We run a light-hearted activity each fortnight relating to ‘The 10 keys to happiness’ or you can just come for coffee* and biscuits!

10:00am to 12:00pm at St Peter’s Community Centre, Westfield, Yeovil BA21 3DY. The Happy Café is organised and run by Ryalls Park Medical Centre Health Coaches –  for more information inc the next date, contact Fran, Julie or Karen.

Happy Cafes are part of the Happy Café Network, within the Action for Happiness movement.

*We ask for a donation for tea and coffee for St Peter’s Church.

Sexual Health support

Somerset-Wide Integrated Sexual Health (SWISH) offers free confidential testing and treatment for all sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, and offer a full range of contraception.

We are open to all ages including under 16’s. You can visit any SWISH Service, locally or further afield, however not all clinics run a full service, so please ring to find out what is available.

You can book an appointment at SWISH or attend a Sit and Wait clinic.

ARK at Egwood

ARK at Egwood CIC (Acts of Random Kindness) is an inter-generational therapeutic land-based day facility on 12 acres of land and woodland at Egwood, near Merriott. We offer a range of meaningful and purposeful activities and transferable life experiences, practical skills and support to improve health, wellbeing and opportunities for adults and young people, which includes horticulture/gardening, hedge-laying, animal husbandry, cooking/baking, creative arts and crafts and music.    

We also provide personal, targeted, cost-effective therapies, including counselling, nature therapy and equine facilitated therapy, helping those needing to be more active, overcoming trauma, physical recovery, or working through anxiety, stress or depression.

We want to provide an engaging environment to those needing support and reduce social isolation within our community; it is well documented that the outside space as well as being with other people can have a positive impact on mental health, confidence and self-esteem. We also provide day placements for young people in support of their education.

Egwood Field, Egwood, Merriott, TA16 5QN

Young Carers groups – Yeovil

Juniors (ages 8-11) alternate Wednesdays 5:00pm – 7:00pm.
Contact Hannah HJanulewicz@mendipymca.org.uk

Preston Road Methodist Cedar Grove Yeovil BA21 3JR.

Seniors (12-18) alternate Wednesdays 5:00pm – 7:00pm.
Contact Sarah SPeters@mendipymca.org.uk

Preston Road Methodist Cedar Grove Yeovil BA21 3JR

Forget Me Not Cafe – Chard

Supported group for people living with memory loss and their loved ones.

Drop in and meet new friends enjoy new activities, coffee and a chat.

Every Friday 10-12pm.

Chard Young people’s centre,

Essex Close,

Chard

TA20 1RH

Please call Judith for more information.

Community Cafe – South Petherton

All welcome! Organised by Connecting Petherton.

2.30-4pm on the 2nd Friday of the month (except for Sept 2019, no meeting).

Pitway Community Hall, Silver Street, South Petherton TA13 5AW.

Somerset Recovery College

The Somerset Recovery College is hosted by Somerset Partnership NHS Trust for the wellbeing of people in Somerset.
Our students are people with lived experience of mental health difficulties, their family and friends, and the professionals who support them.
Our courses are open access for Somerset residents over the age of 18 and are free of charge. We do not take referrals from health professionals and our students do not have to be using mental health services to access any of our courses as long as they have a interest in mental health and recovery is genuine.

Nuffield Health Joint Pain Programme – Yeovil

A 12 week specialist course for anyone who is suffering from Joint Pain; it includes 2 hour long group sessions a week with a personal trainer.

We want to enable you to manage your arthritis, get back to doing things that you love and used to do by reducing pain, fear and anxiety, we will do this by helping you to find exercises that you enjoy, teach you to work out safely and ultimately reduce or eliminate pain. All sessions are tailored to your pace.

The sessions will enable us to build a support community where you feel safe and comfortable; where you can make friends and share experiences.

£2.00 per session, for this price you also get a gym membership card and are able to use the full facilities at any time. Days and times to be confirmed with people who apply for the 12 week programme.

For further information please contact Kirsty Malik.

Chard Baby Boogie

For babies under 12 months.

Every Friday (term time only). 10.30am – 11.15am.

Meets at Chard Library, Holyrood Lace Mill, Holyrood Street, Chard, TA20 2YA

Somerset Cruse

Offering support, advice and information for bereavement through face-to-face, telephone and email support.

Walk15 low impact workout – Merriott & Chard

Walk15 is a low impact workout that is for all fitness levels and ages.  Even those with illnesses and minor injuries (osteoarthritis or knee pain) can join.  Basically, if you can walk on the spot for half an hour, you can do this.  And it’s set to cheesy music that keeps the pace going. £5 per person.

  • Tithe Barn, Merriott, Wednesdays at 19.15
  • The Unit, Chard, Saturdays at 08.30

Contact John Scott for more information.

Community Cafe – Preston Road, Yeovil

Enjoy free refreshments and good company. Find out about local activities and events. Open to all.

First Weds of the month, 2:00 pm  – 3:30 pm

Yeovil Family Church, 164 Preston Road, Yeovil,  BA20 2EQ

For more information contact Sue Baimbridge.

Minster Milers – running for all abilities

At our club sessions our main aim is to ensure that we can offer something for everyone, regardless of ability or prior running experience. We strive to make these sessions as enjoyable and sociable as possible, so please do come along and try it out for yourself! You are welcome to come along for up to 4 free taster sessions before becoming a Member. We offer a Couch to 5K programme twice a year.

See our website for more details.

Every Wednesday, arrive from 6:45pm, for a 7pm start.

Archie Gooch Pavilion, Brittens Field, The Rec, Ilminster TA19 9FE.

My Guide from Guide Dogs

My Guide is a free service offered by Guide Dogs that enables people with a vision impairment to get out of their homes and into the community. With a volunteer as your sighted guide, you can overcome challenges presented by unfamiliar places or crowded areas, enjoy exploring your surroundings and ultimately become more independent.

Yeovil Peer Support Group
The Peer Support Group provides peer support for people who have mental health problems. We run activities (such as colouring, games, jigsaws and puzzles) every week in a safe friendly atmosphere with supportive chat.
It costs £2 a session. This includes free refreshments and activities.
Free car parking in church car park through the main Quedam as Jane can validate tickets.

Meets Mondays 2.30-4.30pm at Vicarage Street Methodist Church, Yeovil. Contact Jane Carter-Uren for more details.

Mental Health support group – Yeovil

A bi-monthly support group open to all adults registered at any Yeovil GP practice. Run by Penn Hill Health Coaches, with speakers on useful topics such as emotional resilience, mindfulness, etc.

6.30-7.30pm, first Monday of the month.

Places limited, so please call first. Tel 01935 470800 and ask to speak to a Jo or Georgie.

Penn Hill Surgery, St. Nicholas Close, Yeovil BA20 1SB

Oaklands Surgery Coffee Morning – Birchfield, Yeovil

Oaklands Surgery’s PPG run a coffee morning at the surgery on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, from 10:30-12:00.

Contact Margaret via the Surgery.

Community Cafe – Birchfield, Yeovil

Meet local people and find out about local support and activities. Open to all. Part of the Take Part project, supported by Yarlington.

2nd & 4th Weds of the month. 10:30am -12:30pm.

Yarlington Community Hub, St. John’s Road, Yeovil, BA21 5QA.

For more information, contact Emma at Spark Somerset.

Enable Support

Providing specialised support for people with mental health needs, Asperger’s, aquired brain injury and learning disability.

Wyndham Park Youth Club

Wyndham Park Youth Club, for 10-19yrs and up to 25 yrs for young people with additional needs.

Meets Wednesdays 6.30pm – 8.30pm at Wyndham Park Community Hub, 80 Great Mead, Wyndham Park, Yeovil.

Contact Matt Vaine for more information.

 

Langport Food Bank

A referral should be made by an agency. They will issue a Referral Form. Agencies include SCC Social Services; Citizens Advice;  Village & Community Agents in Langport area. In an emergency, parcels can be given without contacting an agency.

Wednesdays 2-4pm.

Ridgeway Hall, Stacey’s Court, Langport.

Lord’s Larder Food Bank – Chard

A referral should be made by an agency. They will issue a Referral Form.

Please contact one of the the agencies making referrals: SCC Social services; Citizens Advice;  Village & Community Agents in Chard area; Churches providing the Lord’s Larder stocks.

The Lord’s Larder
42 Fore Street
Chard
Somerset
TA20 1QA

Spark Somerset

Whatever your age, skills or interests, we can help you find a volunteering opportunity that’s right for you.

We have been providing practical support to the voluntary sector in Somerset for many years. Our aim is to inspire strong and sustainable communities through voluntary and community action.

We provide information, advice, training and support to charities and community groups across Somerset.

We represent the sector on strategic bodies, both at a District and County level.

We run the Volunteer Service for the county, inspiring people to get involved and make a difference in their communitites.

Tackling money worries for people with Mental Health needs – Confidence Clubs, Yeovil & Chard

Confidence Clubs are for people living with mental ill health conditions, and who would benefit from confidence building to:

  • Manage money better
  • Learn about budgeting
  • Become less fearful about bills and opening envelopes

Please feel welcome to chat to Julia by making contact (see below details):

  • To find out when the next meet up is
  • To talk about any support you may need to come along

Sometimes a speaker is arranged to visit us, and ideas for speakers are chosen by people attending at club meet-ups.

Link-Up – connect with others in Yeovil

Our aim is to connect people with others that may feel in need of some company. All welcome. Enjoy a cuppa and company. Donation welcome.

We meet once a month, on the first Wednesday, between 2 and 3.30pm.

The GateWay/Yeovil Community Church, Addlewell Lane, Yeovil.

Saturday Supper – Ilminster

Join us for this wonderful event offering everyone from the community the chance to share in a free meal, fun, activities and board games. From 4.30pm to 6.30pm on the fourth Saturday of each month.

Minster Rooms, Court Barton, Ilminster.

Mid Somerset Rheumatoid Group – Taunton

Support group run by and for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), with help and support from the Musgrove Hospital based Rheumatology team.

The aims are to:

  • Provide opportunities to meet others who have RA, helping us all to feel less isolated by chatting together
  • Learn more about understanding and managing our RA
  • Offer feedback to our local Rheumatology team
  • Raise funds for National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society NRAS, which supports us as a Group and campaigns nationally to improve patient support and research into RA
  • Contribute as “expert patients” to RA study and training days
  • Help raise awareness through occasional events or speaking on the radio to disseminate a better understanding of RA

We currently meet every two months at the Taunton Rugby Club (Hyde Park, Hyde Lane, Bathpool, Taunton, TA2 8BU), a venue with ample parking and good disabled access. Most of our meetings start at 7pm on a Tuesday evening, and we charge £2.50 towards the hire of the room. Many of our speakers are medical professionals, and there is always an opportunity for questions and answers, as well as light refreshments and a raffle. You don’t have to be a Member of NRAS to attend our meetings.

Yeovil Men’s Shed

Social project which supports people through doing practical activities. Primarily woodworking but also crafts. All welcome.

We have moved to the Pen Mill trading estate – Unit 5B, 8 Buckland Rd, BA21 5EA.

Chaplaincy Listening Service

We are a faith-based service offering chaplaincy support for people of all faiths and none in times of emergency.

For anyone facing end of life issues, bereavement, or anxious about someone in hospital, residential care or isolated at home, from the Faith Communities Major Emergencies Team for Avon and Somerset. Caring and confidential.

8am – 11pm, 7 days a week.

Westfield Youth Club

Restarting in November when St. Peters Church Community Centre is completed. 10-19yrs and up to 25 yrs for young people with additional needs.

Provisionally Wednesdays 7-9pm.  Contact Matt Vaine for more information.

Wincanton Wellness Support Group

Do you live with depression or bipolar disorder? Do you feel like you are the only one? Or, are you afraid to tell people? A peer-led, confidential support group for people just like you has formed! Our goal is to provide hope, help, support and education to improve lives of people who have mood disorders. If you or a loved one are looking for help come along.

If you are interested, please send an email or call for further details.

Meeting Voices Community Choir – Chard

We have been singing together since 2000. We meet in the Town Hall, the first floor room at the Guildhall.  We sing and enjoy songs from around the world.

The atmosphere is deliberately informal, where people feel welcome, supported and un-pressurised.

Wednesday evenings.

The Guildhall, Fore Street, Chard, Somerset TA20 1PP.

The Phoenix Voices – Yeovil

The Phoenix Voices choir were founded in 2014 by local choirmaster Kris Emmett and in 2016 added an orchestra and a band.

This year, using choral singing as a therapeutic intervention they will be focusing their community work on mental health, combating social isolation in the elderly and those living with mental ill-health, including stigma, both here and in sheltered accommodation in Yeovil and beyond.

All adults are welcome to join without audition – no need to be able to read music, just turn up and discover what can be unlocked!

The choir meets every Tuesday evening from 7:30-9pm at Holy Trinity Church and Community Centre on Lysander Road.

The first rehearsal is free, then our subs for members are £6 per week thereafter or £2.50 for those on income support, low income or other benefits. Each rehearsal lasts 90 minutes.

Chard Camera Club

Chard Camera Club meet on the first and third Thursdays of each month (excluding July and August) at 7.30pm.

The Baptist Church, Hall, 9 Holyrood St, Chard, Somerset TA20 2AH.

Coffee for All – Castle Cary

This takes place in our hall every Wednesday morning from 9.30 am – 12 noon run by a team of volunteers.  It provides a happy lively place for people of all ages to meet up and have a chat over a cup of coffee or tea and a selection of homemade cakes.

A book and magazine exchange table is provided.

There is no charge but donations are always welcome and after covering expenses surplus funds are given to charity.

Methodist Church, 2 Upper High St, Castle Cary BA7 7AT

Vanessa Gardening Project – Yeovil

A horticultural therapy group where people can improve their mental wellbeing through gardening.

Beginner swimming classes – Goldenstones, Yeovil

If you want to improve your confidence, meet new people, or would like to be able to swim confidently, whether a beginners or would like to be a stronger, more confident swimmer, these classes are for you.

We have a total of 10 adult swim development classes each week within our timetable that you would be able to attend, to help with your personal swim journey. All classes are teacher led and we offer three levels of ability so we have a lesson for everyone.

Any new swimmers joining our program to start with a “dip your toe in” session so we can assess your swimming, work out your personal goals and go from there.

Dip Your Toe In – Beginner
Monday: 10am-11am
Wednesday: 2pm-3pm
Friday: 11am-12pm & women only 2pm-3pm
Sunday: 7pm-8pm

Classes are FREE to LED members as they as included within all of the membership options (starting at £28/month for adults), if you are not a member of LED, the cost is £6 per class. There is a 25% discount for 60+ age group and members of the Passport To leisure scheme, which is run through SSDC, bringing the price down to £4.80.

Contact Emilie Woan below for details.

Start to Cycle Yeovil – social rides for all

Start to Cycle Yeovil is a friendly social cycling group for all cyclists in and near Yeovil, Somerset. We want to help people cycle more and ride with others. Some members are novices, some are getting back into it. Hybrids, Mountain Bikes, Road bikes, Electric bikes – all are welcome.

We have shorter rides of 7-9 miles around the town, using cycle paths, and longer rides of up to 20 miles into the countryside. We ride as a group and never leave anyone behind!

Find us on Facebook, or email us for more info and upcoming rides.

Somerset Veterans Liaison Service

Advice for Armed Forces Veterans to access health services.

Call or email Sheila Taylor, Veterans Champion for Mental Health at Sompar.

Bath Outpatient Fibromyalgia Self Management Programme (FSMP)

An outpatient hospital-based interactive exercise and education group programme aimed at encouraging self-management of FMS. Please note you must have a clinical diagnosis of fibromyalgia.  For referral advice please contact Julie Russell or Sandi Derham.  This service accepts only GP referrals.  We offer support in following evidence-based self-management strategies to manage fatigue and other symptoms of CFS/ME. We occasionally run support sessions for carers/supporters. Most people who attend this service have noticed that their symptoms and confidence in managing their condition improves.

Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Bath.

Fibromyalgia service – Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Bath

Our service is expert, multi-disciplinary and focussed on the individual needs of each patient. We have over five years’ experience of developing and leading a condition-specific exercise and education outpatient programme. We work closely with expert patients in the management of FMS. We are proactive in providing education about FMS management to other healthcare professionals. We were finalists in the 2010 National Advancing Healthcare Awards for the management of long-term conditions.

Macmillan Advice Service from Citizens Advice South Somerset

Specialist advice on benefits, grants, finances, debt and employment (and any other issues) for people living with cancer and their families. Appointments and telephone appointments are easily and quickly available.

Somerset Community Pain Service

Empowering people with persistent pain to develop their understanding, skills and confidence to live a full and meaningful life. Working in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, sharing expertise for the benefit of their patients.

Mendip Fibromyalgia Support Group

Come and join us for an informal chat at the Monthly Peer Support Group usually followed by a speaker. The Mendip Fibromyalgia Support group is a group to help and support those who are affected with fibromyalgia in the local area. We meet at Hartley’s Kitchen, Rookery Farm, Binegar, BA3 4UL.

First Wednesday of each month. 10am to 12 noon. There is also a facebook page and an email newsletter.

Included as it’s the nearest Fibre support group for South Somerset residents.

Somerset Parent Carer Forum

Somerset Parent Carer Forum’s activities are carried out for the benefit of Parent Carers and families of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Somerset. The work we do is focused in the following areas:

  • Enabling families to have a voice
  • Enabling families to support themselves
  • Enabling families to support each other

We organise local groups and workshops to bring parents carers together for practical and emotional support. Topics include welfare reform, challenging behaviour, managing relationships and transitions.  We connect families going through similar experiences or whose child has the same condition or disability.  We organise coffee mornings so parents can make new friends and socialise.

Camelot Credit Union

Credit unions enable people in a community to come together to save ethically and to borrow money at competitive rates. They provide an alternative to ‘conventional’ banking systems, and operate for the mutual benefit of all members, whether they are savers or borrowers.

Somerset Prostate Support Association

Somerset Prostate Support Association (SPSA) was established in 2003 and provides a much-needed source of help and support for Somerset men diagnosed with prostate problems (including prostate cancer), and their families.

Today the SPSA’s primary activities include presentations to raise awareness of prostate cancer and a programme of free discrete Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood testing events throughout Somerset. The emphasis is on identifying raised PSA levels as soon as possible, and the importance of early detection of prostate problems.

It is important for men to be aware of symptoms associated with prostate cancer and understand that they may have prostate cancer but remain asymptomatic (ie no obvious symptoms) hence the PSA blood test. Early detection is vital for early intervention, leading to a positive outcome. PSA tests identify that there is a prostate problem, not that cancer is present. The identified problem needs further investigation to establish the presence of cancer and provide appropriate treatment interventions.

SPSA is a registered charity that is run entirely by volunteers, many with personal experience of prostate cancer and the effect it has on their lives and that of their families.

To find out more or to make a donation, please visit our website.

Chard Amateur Theatre Society

We are over 60 years into productions and put on an annual pantomime and summer show, as well as charity evenings. Our age range starts at 8-13 years who are known as Kittens, 14-17 years who are known as Sphynx Group and 18year+ with no limit on adults age. We rehearse Tuesday evenings, Kittens from 7-8pm, Sphynx & Adults 8-10pm and also Wednesday evenings 7.30-10pm.

Contact: Lorraine Marshall. 35 Bubwith Close, Chard, TA20 2BW.

GP Helpers scheme – South Petherton

If you live in South Petherton and would benefit from a regular visit from a volunteer befriender, contact a Health Coach at the Medical Centre for an initial chat.

Somerset Independence Plus

We work from a preventative angle to help vulnerable people maintain their independence and stay in their homes.

We have a wider team which includes Occupational Therapists, Adult Social Care Workers, Caseworker, a Minor Adaptations team and a team of Grants and Technical Officers who help to oversee Disabled Facility Grants. The team is based out of our Independent Advice Centres, which will be a sort of one stop shop for all needs.

A Caseworker will come to do an initial assessment of the client around their mobility, finances, and home safety. This can lead on to other parts of our service, helping them to move, or signposting on to other appropriate agencies.

In South Somerset, home adaptations up to £1000 are available if you are eligible.

Active Living Lunch & Talk – Bruton

Weekly lunch & a talk from a wide range of speakers.

12 noon – 4pm.

Contact Cynth Jeffery for more information.

Zing Somerset Community Support

A range of activities, including physical activity & healthy eating opportunities for all ages and abilities. This will range from using and promoting a range of national campaigns and web based information to working with partner organisations/services in particular Somerset communities to develop existing skills to enhance the health promotion messages.

Peer support group for people with a Learning Disability – Yeovil

A support group for adults with learning disabilities to;

  • Have a voice about things that matter
  • Meet new friends and have fun
  • Get information and support
  • Gain new skills and confidence

We meet on a monthly basis from 1pm to 2.30pm in Yeovil Library.

Groups are free but please bring money for snacks and drinks. We are unable to provide personal care or support so please bring support if required!

Colleen and the group look forward to welcoming you. Please contact People First Dorset to find out more & future dates.

Milford Youth Club

Milford Youth Club runs on Thursday evenings, term time only, 6pm – 8pm, entry £1 at Milford Community Hall.

Liven up your Thursday evenings and come along to the youth club!

For more information contact: NatalieWalton@ymca-bg.org

Dance class for people with Learning Disabilities in Ilminster

Inclusive dance classes for people with Learning Disabilities and their carers or support workers. £3 per session (free for carers).

Every Thursday from 7pm – 8pm.

Contact Matthew England for more information.

MS Society and Citizens Advice South Somerset

Specialist advice on benefits, grants, finances, debt and employment (and any other issues) for people living with MS and their families. Appointments and telephone appointments are easily and quickly available.

Somerset Bowel Cancer Support Group

A self help group for people with bowel cancer, their families and carers.

In It Together – exercise groups for women

Offering sport activities for Women and Girls 16+ in South Somerset: badminton, tennis, netball, running, hockey, exercise classes and cycling!

See Facebook page for details of groups and classes, or contact SSDC Healthy Lifestyles team by phone or email.

SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association)

Support for Soldiers and Military families. Providing practical, emotional and financial support to anyone who is serving or has ever served and their families.

Good Companions – Chard

We are a club for over 55 year-olds. We have two speakers a month, 5 outings per year. We do a range of social activities, including bingo and a beetle drive.

We meet every Thursday from 2.15pm to 4pm.

Crowshute House, Crowshute Link, Chard, TA20 2EZ.

Veterans Support Group – Yeovil

We are a friendly group of ex-Servicepeople, including ex-Emergency Services, who meet up to socialise, share experiences and help each other find support in the community.

Our meetings are on the first Saturday of the month, from 12-2pm, following the Veterans Breakfast Club which starts at 9:30.

Yeovil Labour Club, Unity Hall, Central Rd, Yeovil BA20 1JL.

The Link: South Somerset’s Health and Wellbeing Community Hub

The Link has been established by Home Group in partnership with SSDC to provide a hub with the objective to up-skill, empower and connect the community. Available workshops are:

  • Me, myself and I: To help find ways of expressing yourself positively and identify triggers to negative emotions.
  • Supporting to manage stressful and difficult situations by building emotional resilience.
  • Above the influence: Identify positive interventions and behaviours by raising awareness of drug and alcohol use, potential consequences of misuse, complete a self-help plan and where to seek support.
  • Personal development:  To look at personal goals, volunteering, training and preparing for work.
  • Personal budgeting skills: Providing information on budgeting, ways of saving money and complete a budgeting plan.

Groups: Pilates, Creative writing, Art Therapy, Community links (open drop-in), Music sessions and Health and Wellbeing sessions.

Alongside the workshop there is an opportunity to access a tenant accreditation scheme and gain a qualification.
The service is open to anyone but would need to be referred in by specialist agencies such as GP’s, SDAS, Probation, Housing Options, DWP, Social housing providers, anyone that supports individuals with their health and wellbeing.

32 Vicarage Walk, Quedam Centre, Yeovil.

Preston Grove Friendship Group

A coffee group at Westlands Sports and Social Club, Yeovil. A chance for people to get together and meet others to have a chat. Very informal event for anyone who wants to come. First Thursday of the month, 2pm – 3pm

The Royal British Legion

The Royal British Legion supports serving members of the Armed Forces, veterans and their families and carers. Advice on finance, independent living, care, respite, recovery, and employment is available. Helpline is open from 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week.

Tuesday Lunch Club – Milford Community Association

Our Tuesday Luncheon club is an opportunity for a social gathering and a nutritious lunch. We have a range of short talks, usually once a month, that are enjoyed over coffee after lunch. At Milford Park, Yeovil, BA21 4QD, please contact for more details.

St Mary’s Church Ramble Group – Chard

Monthly walks, 4 miles and 8 miles approximately, coach to destination. All ages welcome – No dogs.

Contact Mrs. Bagg for more details.

Meet at 27 Helmstedt Way, Chard, TA20 1DQ.

Special Guardianship & Adoptive parents support group – Wincanton

Are you thinking of, or in the process of adopting? Perhaps you are bringing up a grandchild? Or a friends child? If any of these apply to you then this is the group for you.

Children are also welcome – we have plenty of toys and there is always coffee and cake.

We meet on the last Friday of the month at The Balsam Centre, Wincanton between 12:30 and 2:30pm. You can just turn up, but if you want more information see details below.

Recovery Support Project from SWEDA

Eating Disorders may include under-eating, binge eating, and/or using unhealthy behaviours which can seriously harm the individual with long term effects. Eating Disorders affect both men and women of all ages and at any time of their lives. The good news is there is life beyond an Eating Disorder and we can help you to overcome some of the practical hurdles you might be experiencing.

The Recovery Support Project will give you the opportunity to work with a supporter on a tailor–made individual support programme. It will help you to set small goals and achieve them with a focus on helping you to feel more confident around everyday activities such as: food shopping, cooking and eating, as well as clothes shopping and leisure activities. It will also help you with other skills you may wish to manage.

Re-Engage Call Companions

For people who are 75 or older, living alone or in sheltered housing with little or no contact with family or friends and struggle to leave their house in normal times. A regular friendly phone call with one of our trained volunteers.

The Hub – Yeovil

Our name says it all. The Hub. A place where people, ideas and practical solutions come together. A place where those with learning difficulties and autism get to meet, master new skills and move forwards. A place with a clear-sighted mission: To provide support and training to empower the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism, helping each individual achieve their own personal independence, support their community and work together, beyond disability.

Health Coaches – support available at your GP practice

There are Health Coaches based at 17 GP practices across South Somerset.

They help patients and their families to better understand and manage their existing health conditions and to provide practical advice including diet and fitness. They are also able to research information and signpost patients to local community resources and services that can provide support and equipment to maintain a high quality of life at home.

To date Health Coaches have helped over 18,000 people in the area.

Contact your Practice receptionist to find out how you can see a Health Coach.

Red Cross Support at Home Service

The Red Cross helps people following a stay in hospital by providing extra support at home. The support offered by our volunteers can smooth the process of settling back into a normal routine and enable people to regain their confidence and independence. The service offers weekly visits or calls for up to 6 weeks maximum duration.

Referrals are accepted from GPs, hospitals, social workers and individuals. The coordinators will ask a series of eligibility questions and any offer is subject to capacity.

No Domestic or personal care is undertaken.

Epilepsy Action Helpline

Epilepsy Action is a community of people committed to a better life for everyone affected by epilepsy.

We want high quality, accessible epilepsy healthcare services, so that people with epilepsy have the support they need to manage their condition.

We want wider awareness and understanding of epilepsy, so that people living with the condition are treated with fairness and respect.

If you would like to talk to someone about epilepsy, our trained advisers are here to help. We offer confidential and personal advice and you can tell us as much or as little as you want. No question is a silly question.

Chard & District Modellers Club

The club caters for modellers of all forms of land transport, primarily railways. We have our own club room in Chard where we can build and operate projects.

Contact: Mr Ron Jones

Active Age Pioga (Chair based exercise) – Crewkerne

Active Age Pioga is performed on chairs . We use big and small bands to help with posture correction and, if you wish, to increase the difficulty level of exercises.

It’s suitable for all abilities and is the perfect setting for making new friends as well as staying healthy, active and free from muscular aches and pains.

Henhayes Centre Crewkerne 9.30am – 10.30am – £5 per class

Happy & Healthy drop-in at Millbrook Surgery – Castle Cary

Come along to our weekly drop in service every Wednesday between 9.15 – 10.00am.

Help and encouragement to manage your own health, well-being, weight and/or reach any personal goals.

We offer a weekly weigh-in, can arrange basic health checks, signpost to well-being groups, and give lifestyle advice and support, all in a friendly and informal atmosphere.

Available to all Millbrook Surgery patients – free of charge.

Community Connector training

Community Connectors are members of the community who signpost and inform friends, family, colleagues and neighbours about how to access support groups, services and information that might help improve their health and well being.

If you would like to become a Community Connector, it is not about adding another job to your already busy day, but about using appropriate opportunities to inform people about the support that is out there.

Training for these voluntary roles is free and takes place throughout the year. For more information get in touch with Spark Somerset.

Ilminster Food Bank

The churches in Ilminster run a Food Bank in Sweet Surprise Café, Silver Street.

This service is by referral only – those who can refer are local vicars,  GP’s and Social Workers.

Please contact Lydia Munday for more information.

Veterans Gateway – single point of contact for veterans’ support

Veterans’ Gateway is the first point of contact for veterans seeking support.

There is a huge network of organisations supporting the Armed Forces community, so finding the right one for your needs can be tricky.

We make it quick and easy by being your first point of contact for whatever support you need, whether you are based in the UK or abroad.

Many of our team are veterans themselves so they understand the issues that people face after leaving the Armed Forces.

They work with people on a one-to-one basis, connecting them with the right support as soon as possible.

LIFT Youth Group

We meet to have fun and games, food and films and explore the Bible and pray (12 -18 year olds). 6:30pm – 8 pm every Sunday in the church room.  At St James’ Church, Preston Road, Yeovil, BA20 2EZ

Yeovil Carers for People with Disabilities Support Group

This group meets on the 2nd Monday of every month.  10.30am Registration and coffee, 11am main business, 1pm lunch and chat. Venue: The Old Barn Club, Old Barn Way, Yeovil, BA20 2NX. Contact Malcolm Campbell for more information.

Positive People – support for those not in work

Positive People offers a lifeline to people who are not in work, no matter what the reason. It can help build confidence, skills and give people a sense of hope for their future.

The programme offers 1:1 support to help people move forward with life, and can help people get involved with new and exciting activities to help build confidence and meet new people. It also provides free specialised support towards overcoming barriers to work such as anxiety or isolation issues, access to benefits, housing, financial or other health issues.

The programme is open to anyone over 18 who is out of work.

Wellbeing Activities & Mindfulness group – Yeovil

Our aim is to improve participants’ mental health and well-being, confidence and self-esteem, providing people with mindfulness-based tools to help with their daily lives. We also hope to have guest speakers, topical themes and supportive opportunities for all our group members. Activities will vary depending on identified needs.
Open to any patient registered at a South Somerset GP practice.
Every Friday, 6:30-8pm at Oaklands, Birchfield Road, Yeovil BA21 5RL.

Memory Cafe – Castle Cary

The Memory Café is a place for people with memory problems or dementia, and their carers, to meet others in a similar situation.
Share experiences, make friends, enjoy activities and find information and support.Free of charge.
For further information please contact Steph on 01963 350210 or Carybrook on 01963 359700
First and third Wednesday of every month, 10.30am-12.30 am.
Carybrook, Millbrook Gardens, Castle Cary.

Age UK Somerset

Age UK Somerset provides information and advice on a wide range of issues. We’ll provide you with the facts and you can make choices and decisions knowing you have reliable information. We can help you with:

  • Welfare benefits and money matters
  • Housing rights.
  • Health and social care
  • Leisure and social activities
  • Family and personal matters
  • Your rights to local services

And most other things that affect your quality of life.

Ilminster Arts Centre

Ilminster Arts Centre at the Meeting House is a vibrant arts venue and cafe situated in the former Unitarian Church on East Street. It is fully accessible with it’s own parking, has many different activities and welcomes volunteers.

Call in Time – weekly ‘friendship calls’ for the over 60s

‘Call in Time’ is a free public telephone befriending service run by Age UK. It matches volunteers with older members of the public. Not having someone to talk to regularly can be lonely and isolating, particularly if you’re used to sharing your home and time with others. A friendly, weekly, 30-minute chat on the phone can make all the difference.

The calls are friendship calls and are not for counselling or bereavement support.

While we’re waiting to find a suitable match for an older member of the public, we carry out regular, short Good Day Calls with them, to make sure they don’t feel ignored. There is a criteria for example people need to be over 60, live alone or be a full time carer and be able to hear clearly over the phone.

‘Call in Time’ is also looking for volunteers.

Memory Cafe – Ilminster

For anyone living with or supporting someone living with dementia. Fun, friendship, refreshments, games, information & support.

Alternate Wednesdays 10-12am – restarting on 6th October 2021.

The Minster Rooms , Court Barton, Ilminster TA19 0DU (behind The Dolphin Inn).

Call Lydia Munday for more information.

2BU Somerset

If you’re a young person living in Somerset you may find that being lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning your sexuality or gender identity can be exciting as you discover who you are, it can also be a challenge or difficult.

Information is available via our website www.2bu-somerset.co.uk for contact details and how to join our youth support groups or access dedicated support.

Patient Transport Advice Centre

We are the first point of contact for all Somerset GP patients enquiring about transport to their NHS appointments. We assess patients’ eligibility on their medical need, mobility and various other factors and if suitable can provide free car, W/C Taxi or ambulance transportation. Our lines are open from 08:30 – 18:30 Monday to Friday.

Community Transport South West

We provide accessible transport for local people who have no access to public transport because of location or who are unable to us the public transport available due to access problems or disabilities.

Diabetes Peer Support Group – Yeovil

Diabetes Peer Support Group. Open to anyone living in South Somerset. Meets on the first Saturday of month, 9.30am -11.00am at Preston Grove Medical Centre, 8 Preston Grove, Yeovil, BA20 2BQ

Somerset Choices

Local services and information to help you choose the right care and support, for both Adults and Children & Families. Site by Somerset County Council.

Dementia Action Alliances – local action groups

Dementia Action Alliances are made up of organisations and individuals, working together to radically improve the lives of people living with dementia and their carers. DAA’s often are working towards making their community Dementia Friendly.

South Somerset DAA’s include;

Yeovil Dementia Action Alliance
Website

Wincanton Dementia Action Alliance
Website

Somerton Area Dementia Action Alliance
Email

The SW DAA’s are listed here

Community Mental Health drop in group

AKA Community Day. Run by Mind in Somerset. Peer support service, providing a safe and welcoming place for individuals to drop in when they are looking for that little bit of extra support. Support worker to talk to in confidence, craft activities, internet access, photography club, afternoon art group, access to Citizens Advice.

Every Wednesday from 9.30am – 3.30pm at the Methodist Church (Wesley Room), Vicarage Street, Yeovil, BA20 1JZ

Stroke Association Somerset Family and Carer Support Service

If you or someone you care about has had a stroke, our Somerset based service can provide practical advice, essential information and emotional support. The service is free to people of any age recovering from stroke, their carers and family members. Either you or your carer, health or social care workers or GP can refer you to the service. We visit people wherever they may be such as their own home, hospitals or care homes.

Sensory Loss Team

Somerset County Council Sensory loss teams are trained to work with people with sight loss. Workers can visit the home and arrange to provide support to keep independence. Services include provision of equipment, rehabilitation, and advice and information.

Dementia Talking Point

Dementia Talking Point is a helpful online community where anyone who is affected by dementia can receive valuable support. The community is free to use, open 24 hours a day and all you need is an internet connection.

Ask questions, share experiences and get information and practical tips on living with dementia. From the Alzheimer’s Society.

On Dementia Talking Point you can:
Ask for advice
Read other people’s stories
Offload your concerns about dementia
Share helpful information

Chard and Crewkerne After Stroke Group

Chard and Crewkerne After Stroke Group welcomes membership from people affected by stroke. The club provides information and peer support; rehabilitation; and offers social and recreational activities including games, exercise, outings, talks and presentations by visiting speakers.
The group meets every Tuesday from 10.30am – 12.30pm. For more information contact Christine Williams.

ACEArts, Somerton

We hold regular workshops and outreach sessions into the community for individuals to participate in art and creativity regardless of their age or ability.

ACEArts, Market Place, Somerton TA11 7NB.

Youth Matters

Drop-in facility for young people in South Somerset aged between 11-25 who are struggling with mental health difficulties. Young people can get support on anxiety, depression, gender dysmorphia, self-harm, addiction, sexual health, unemployment, sexuality and substance misuse.

Run by Mind in Somerset.

Bath Centre for Fatigue Services

We provide specialist services for adults experiencing longstanding fatigue that is having a significant impact on daily functioning and activities including employment/work.

There are three strands to our Service which provide fatigue and lifestyle management for viral fatigue/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/ME; cancer related fatigue living with and beyond cancer (Macmillan Step Up Service) and long term conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis.

For referral advice or for further information, please contact our team or visit our website.

Tea Parties for friendship and support – Barwick & Stoford

The Geranium Trust, the charity based in Barwick & Stoford, near Yeovil, holds regular tea parties for those feeling lonely or isolated. If you, or someone you know, would benefit from spending a couple of hours each month drinking tea, eating cake, and making new friends then PLEASE get in touch. If you are housebound we may also be able to arrange to bring a special ‘one to one’ tea party out to your home. Just contact us to see what we can arrange.

Women’s Institute – Chard

We have a full and varied programme throughout the year including guest speakers.  We have a range of group activities including a craft/knit & knatter group, art group, book club, outings and monthly lunches. A friendly welcome for all visitors/new members of all ages awaits.

We meet on the second Tuesday of each month (excluding July) at 7.30pm.

Baptist Church Hall, Holyrood Street, Chard.

Red Cross Mobility Aids Service

For the hire of mobility aids including wheelchairs. Delivery costs £10 and Pick up £10 as well as donation for the hire depending on the item. Cost no barrier for those not able to donate.

Milborne Port Tuesday Luncheon Club

This session is set aside for socialising and perhaps an activity such as a Quiz, Reminiscence Session, flexercise or Discussion. A cooked lunch is served at 12.30pm for a small charge. The afternoon session includes a talk on a subject of local interest, or musical activity.

Every Tuesday from 12pm – 2pm. Contact Maureen Lock for more details.

Active Living Groups for People Over 50

We support over 120 Active Living groups, each providing an opportunity for people over 50 to take part in local activities, enjoy the company of others, and access all sorts of information about keeping well and active.

Chair Yoga & Relaxation, Yeovil

New class starting 26th March. Sessions are suitable for wheelchair users and less able individuals.

Monday evenings 6:30 to 7:30pm. St James Resource Centre, Yeovil BA21 3RL.

Cost £6 per session.

Contact Debbie at InYoga on 07929 512442.

South Somerset Community Accessible Transport

Set up to provide transport to the communities of Wincanton, Bruton, Castle Cary and the surrounding villages.

We have several buses that make trips to the local towns and supermarkets and we have volunteer drivers with their own cars if you need to go further afield for a hospital appointment.

We are a limited company and a registered charity, and as a non-profit-making business all the money we take goes back to provide the service. Whether it’s your weekly shop in the supermarket or a trip to the hospital for an appointment, we can help you.

Somerset Carers Service

If you regularly look after someone in a caring capacity, the Somerset Carers Service can support you with advice and guidance. Caring for another person is very rewarding, but can be overwhelming and lonely at times.

Somerset Carers Service can help link to you groups & events in your area, to find facts and information that will help the person you are caring for with their particular needs.

You will find specific support for your unique situation; and our Carers Agents are on hand to help and guide you. If you can’t find what you are looking for, contact us via our Live Chat, Advice Line or Text service.

NCT

“We’re here to support parents. We give them accurate, impartial information so that they can decide what’s best for their family, and we introduce them to a network of local parents to gain practical and emotional support.”

Gentle Exercise for the Mature – South Petherton

Every Tuesday from 2pm – 3pm at the Methodist Church Hall.

Contact Jo Goldie for more details.

Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership

SASP is dedicated to increasing the health and happiness of residents in Somerset through physical activity and sport.
We inspire and enable positive life choices through sport and physical activity and we do this by:

Providing accessible opportunities locally for all ages and abilities.
Supporting clubs, communities, schools and the workforce to embrace physical activity.
Bringing together organisations and partners to plan and create a better environment for change.

Somerset Partnership Learning Disability Service

Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust Learning Disability Service is a highly specialist health service for adults with learning disabilities. The service aims to meet the additional and specialist health needs of people with learning disabilities and is complementary to the work carried out by mainstream health services.

We have 4 Community Teams for Adults with Learning Disabilities (CTALD) across the county, with the following professions represented: Community Nursing, Occupational Therapy Physiotherapy, Psychology, Psychiatry, Speech and language Therapy

Click the link below to find which Team you should contact.

Discovery Day Services

Discovery supports people with learning disabilities, autism, challenging behaviour and complex needs. We are driven by our values. People with learning disabilities and their families are at the heart of everything we do and we want every person we support to have a great life, with excellent outcomes.

Discovery is a new social enterprise – and is a subsidiary of the Dimensions UK Group. We have been established to provide services across Somerset.

Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)

Available to everyone affected by sight loss. Whether you’re losing your sight, blind or partially sighted, our practical and emotional support can help you face the future with confidence. Services include talking library books, specialist education for children young people and learning disability support. Services such as e-Learning courses are also provided to businesses, support workers and individuals to help understand and accommodate people affected by sight loss.

Taunton and Mid Somerset Branch – Parkinsons UK

Meet Fourth Tuesday of the month 11am-3.30pm.

Cheddon Fitzpaine Memorial Hall, Rowford, Cheddon Fitzpaine Taunton Somerset TA2 8JY

please call/email to check details or visit website.

Motability Scheme

If you are disabled, you may be able to exchange your mobility allowance to get a vehicle that suits your needs. What’s more you don’t even need to drive. Family, friends or carers can drive on your behalf.
The Motability Scheme enables disabled people to lease a new car, scooter or powered wheelchair by exchanging their Government funded mobility allowance . If you receive either the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (HRMC DLA), the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (ERMC PIP) , the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) you may be eligible to join the Motability Scheme.

Wincanton Men’s Shed

Starting in Australia, Men’s Sheds have now expanded worldwide. Many men found that once they retired they lost their social network so “Men in Sheds” started, bringing retired or unemployed men together to work on community projects and to socialise again. If you enjoy pottering about in your shed, or you’d like to work on a project – your own or a community project – with others, then come and meet the “shedders”.

Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 10-12:30.

The Balsam Centre, Wincanton.

 

CLIC Sargent

CLIC Sargent is the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people, and their families. We provide clinical, practical, financial and emotional support to help them cope with cancer and get the most out of life. We are there from diagnosis onwards and aim to help the whole family deal with the impact of cancer and its treatment, life after treatment and, in some cases, bereavement.

Chard Children’s Centre

getset Services (incorporating Children’s Centres) work with children, young people and their families from 0 to19 years and up to 25 years where the young person has a special educational need.  We provide services, early help and support where it is needed. Groups, sessions and other activities, including 1 to1 family support are run at or from the centres.

Clare House, Millfield, Chard TA20 2DA.

*Please note that the getset service is subject to change following funding cuts – contact the centre before visiting*

St Margarets Hospice Yeovil

Offer a range of support services for anyone bereaved by the death of someone who received their care.

PFSA (Parent & Family Support Advisors)

– PFSA work in and are managed by schools, referrals need to come via the students year head or school SENCO of the school where your child attends. PFSAs work with both the child and the family by supporting parents with the positive parenting program (PPP), housing, benefits, taking parents or students to appointments, help with form filling etc. We support young people with attendance, behaviour, self-esteem, confidence building, bullying, funding for trips and uniform or supporting them to find groups to join. PFSAs work with students that may struggle with transition between schools. CAMHS and CSC refer to the PFSAs through schools on a regular basis as children do not always meet their threshold. If a family would like some support then they can call their child’s school and request -support from the PFSA.

Early Help

The Early Help offer in Somerset is not just for young children, as problems can emerge at any point throughout childhood and adolescence. The Early Help offer includes universal and targeted services designed to reduce and prevent problems escalating or becoming entrenched.

If you have a child 0-19 or are a young person, Early Help may be able to help with any of the following: sleep routines, tantrums, fussy eating, potty training, money management, housing, return to work, child development, domestic abuse, healthy eating, breast feeding, managing behaviour, relationships, independent living.

Alternatively if you just want to talk, contact us by phone.

Discovery Supported Employment

At Discovery we believe in raising aspirations and building employment opportunities to enable individuals to make informed decisions about work. Everyone’s employment pathway will be very different and individual to them, supported employment is a personalised, person-centred approach to matching the right person to the right job.

Inspired to Achieve

Inspired to Achieve delivers Careers Information, Advice and Guidance to empower young people and adults to fulfil their potential. We support them to move into education, training and employment and upskill people looking to progress within their jobs.

WEA

Voluntary provider of adult education.  Course programme available through website.

Able2Achieve

Able2achieve supports individuals with learning disabilities, mental health, and other associated disabilities. We support individuals in a variety of different ways from everyday living skills to attending social events such as concerts.

South Somerset District Council

Housing & welfare team is available to give advice and to take action, to help find the right housing solutions.

Yeovil Wellbeing Project

The Yeovil Wellbeing Project is a Big Lottery funded project aimed at supporting people in Yeovil and the surrounding areas to improve their mental wellbeing. The groups will focus on improving confidence, life skills, assertiveness, social skills and training and employment opportunities.

Each group will be 3 hours long and will include both a taught and creative session related to the individual weeks’ content in a 12 week rolling programme, and our Support Workers will offer short 1-1 wellbeing checks as well as individual guided goal setting support. Individuals are able to come for as many weeks as they like, and may chose to do more than 12 weeks, or even return to volunteer!

Every Tuesday, 11am – 2pm at St Marks Hall, Yeovil, BA21 4PU

Bibic – services for children & young people

Bibic supports children and young people age 6 months to 25 years old, with or without a diagnosed condition, who are experiencing social difficulties, developmental problems or struggling with learning, communication, behaviour or physical movement.

Supporting families to better understand their child’s difficulties and condition, bibic enables more independent lives, increases confidence and self-esteem and improves life choices, giving hope for brighter futures.

Yeovil Music Centre

If you are aged 10 to 80+ years and are either learning to play an instrument or enjoy singing then Yeovil Music Centre will welcome you. Come and have a look, there’s no obligation.

We pride ourselves on being family-friendly, inclusive and welcoming, and endeavour to cater for all, whether high achievers, average musicians or those with special needs, from relative beginners to those thinking of teaching or playing professionally.

Groups meet at various times between 4:30pm and 9:15pm on Tuesdays in the Main Hall, Kingston Building, Yeovil College. Timetable available including guitar, choir, wind, saxophone and an orchestra.

Tuesday Lunch & Music sessions – Crewkerne

For those looking for fun, companionship and camaraderie. With live entertainment and a two-course lunch.

Fee £13. Transport available if booked ahead, additional £3.50

Tuesdays, 10:00 – 14:00, lunch served at 12:30pm, the Henhayes Centre, Crewkerne.

South Petherton Community Shed

We’re a real mix of people: able bodied skilled woodworkers, some who are not as able as they used to be and need help, and some who have never done woodwork before. There’s a lovely atmosphere and plenty of help for those that want it. We’ve made bird boxes, bird tables, flower tubs, bat boxes, and bug hotels so far.

Come along and see what we do. Just come for a visit, or come and join in. You’ll be made very welcome. Men and women welcome.

Our workshops are the Chapels at the Cemetery.  We meet from 2.00 till 4.30pm every Thursday.

Yeovil Community Arts Association

For those interested in creative arts and crafts, and creative writing. Contact via online form on website.

Parkinson’s friendship coffee mornings – Preston Grove Medical Centre

For Preston Grove patients only – friendship coffee group meets on the first Thursday of every month (2-3pm) where patients and carers can come for a chat and a coffee/tea. Please contact the surgery for venue details.

Take Art

Take Art is a pioneering arts charity, serving the towns, villages and rural communities of Somerset. We do this by providing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to experience, participate and work within the arts.

Yeovil Community Church

Yeovil Community Church is part of the church in Yeovil and has been for over 100 years. Starting as Preston Chapel, we have evolved from a brethren congregation to a network of small congregations across the town, to the church we are today, which sees itself as a resource to and a part of the community in Yeovil.

We believe that we are part of something bigger than just ourselves; that we are created to live in community and that our community prospers when we meet the needs of the marginalized, poor, sick and disadvantaged.

Provides a timetable of social and support groups including Yeovil4Family and Yeovil4work.

The Silver Line

A confidential, free, national helpline for older people. They can offer information, friendship and support. They signpost callers to the many, varied groups and services that exist in their communities.
The Silver Line Telephone Friends offers a regular weekly friendship call with a volunteer.

Yeovil Art Group

Offering an afternoon painting group on a Monday, outdoor painting in the summer and occasional workshops. Please contact for more details.

Milford Community Growing Space

Community garden for Milford residents. Please contact for more information.

Health and Well-Being Zone in Yeovil Library

This is a dedicated space in the libraries where members of the public can come for health and wellbeing information or to access health and wellbeing services. This will include the provision of a free, bookable drop-in space that third-sector organisations and commissioned services can use to host their own health events and activities.

Yeovil Library, King George Street, Yeovil, BA20 1PY

National Citizens Service

Are you 15 to 17 years-old? NCS is a 3-4 week experience that helps build your confidence and self belief so that you can take on anything in life. Live away from home, develop skills and meet amazing people. Food, accommodation and activities, all in for up to £50.

Somerset Sight

Somerset Sight is the only local organisation providing specialist immediate support for people with sight loss.

A wide range of magnifiers lighting, low visual aids including kitchen gadgets, talking clocks and watches, radios and much more are available for demonstration and purchase. Practical advice and information, emotional and technology support, peer support and support designed for the newly diagnosed.

You can discuss practical and emotional difficulties faced with those with lived experience.  A volunteer visitor may be able to assist you with getting out and about or your correspondence. We offer activities and cookery classes and opportunities to socialise. Our Mobile Advisory Service travels the length and breadth of Somerset bringing our services to your local community, please see our website for locations and dates.

Our resource center in Taunton is open daily Monday to Friday with no appointment needed.

St Margaret’s Drop-In Support

Provides a free service to those in the community affected by a life-limiting illness. We run informal drop-in support in Yeovil and Taunton. We welcome anyone who is affected by a life limiting illness. This could be patients, friends, family or carers.  There is no need to book

Yeovil :  Wednesdays 10.30-12.30, Octagon Theatre, Yeovil  BA20 1UX

Taunton :  Thursdays 2-4pm, Sunflower Centre, St Margaret’s Hospice, Heron Drive, Taunton  TA1 5HA.

There is also a 24 hour support helpline for patients and their families facing a life-limiting illness. Call the number listed below.

Beginners Running group

The group meets on Tuesdays at 6.30pm at the Bucklers Mead Sports Centre.

Blue Badge Scheme for disabled people

The Blue Badge Scheme provides national parking concessions for people with severe walking difficulties who travel as drivers or passengers. The scheme is also for people who are severely sight impaired. People who have a blue badge can park close to their destination in on-street parking and car parks. The form can either be filled in online or you can call Somerset County Council.

The cost of a blue badge is £10. The badge can only be used with the person who owns the badge in the car at the time of parking, as a photograph is used on the badge, for identification. Badges take approximately a month to arrive.

The Yeovil Stroke Club

Offers a range of exciting activities including light physical exercise, table-top games, skittles and ten-pin bowling. They also have visiting speakers and outings to the seaside and other places of interest.  Meeting Weekly on Fridays from 10am-2pm, at St. Peters Church, Coronation Avenue, Yeovil, BA21 3DY

SOS Yeovil Survivors of Stroke Club – The Stroke Association

For survivors and carers. Meets the last Thursday of the month from 7.30pm – 9pm at the Holy Trinity Church & Community Centre, Lysander Road, Yeovil, BA20 2BU

Safe Families for Children

Safe Families for Children supports families going through difficult times, reducing the flow of children into foster care.

Partnering with local churches and other organisations, we care for some of the most vulnerable members of our society – children whose parents are struggling to cope.

You can help no matter what your skills! Volunteers choose how they give support, when and which needs they feel able to respond to. We provide training and guidance throughout – you are never ‘left on your own’.

For more information, see our website.

Yeovil Camera Club

Group who discuss all things photographic, sharing images and skills.  Programme of meetings from September to June on Monday evenings from 7.30pm-10.00pm.  Contact via website.

Yeovil Archaeological and Local History Society

The society meets to listen to an interesting selection of speakers on a very diverse range of historical and archaeological subjects with local relevance. Meets the first Friday of each month from October to May, 7:15pm, at Holy Trinity Church, Lysander Road, BA20 2BU

Yeovil Carers Support Group

Come and meet other people who care for their family or friends in an informal, unpaid capacity. There are regular speakers each meeting, plus a chance to ask your questions and support others by sharing your experiences while the person you care for enjoys a gentle, seated Bowls session with qualified instructors and volunteers.

2nd Tuesday of the month from 11am – 12.30pm at the Westlands Entertainment Venue, Westbourne Close, Yeovil, BA20 2DD.

Reading Well – Shared Reading group in Wincanton

Feel better with a book and self help reading lists. Groups run at;

  • Wincanton Library, Tuesdays 2.30pm-4.00pm (2nd, 4th and 5th Tuesday of the month)

Please contact us for more information.

Somerset Skills and Learning

Provider of skills, training and employment services.

East Somerset Scout District

Scouting in East Somerset District is thriving, making an enormous difference to the lives of literally hundreds of young people, volunteers and our wider community.

East Somerset District is one of the largest Scout Districts in the UK. We have over 1,900 young people and over 800 volunteers.

We cover a large geographical area from Yeovil in the south to the village of Rode (north of Frome) in the North.

Fun and Adventure can be found in our Scout Groups up and down our District which includes Yeovil, Wincanton, Martock, Somerton, Bruton and Castle Cary.

TAG (Together at Group) Social Club

From the Hub Yeovil Community Support Charity. A Social Club for Adults for Vulnerable Adults. We run a variety of activities including crafts, games, quizzes, and general socialising. Club members can purchase an evening meal for £2.50. TAG meets at The Hub on Wednesday Evenings 6.15-8.30.

St Marks Church Community Meal

If anyone is tired of eating alone, or of cooking, come along and share a meal with us and meet new friends. Meets the 4th Friday of month at 12.30pm. At St Marks Church, Chelston Avenue, Yeovil

St James’ Ladies Group

Third Thursday of the month in the church room. We have guest speakers and themed meetings.  Our mature membership enjoy meeting to chat, enjoy various talks and refreshments.

Meets at St James’ Church, Preston Road, Yeovil, BA20 2EZ

Somerset and Dorset Family History Society

Group to help people research their family history. Meets at the Holy Trinity Church & Community Centre, Lysander Road, Yeovil, BA20 2BU. Please contact for more information.

St Andrews Group

An opportunity to make new friends and enjoy a cooked lunch. Meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Meets at the St Andrew’s Church Hall, Preston Grove, Yeovil, BA20 2BQ

Yeovil Lunch Club

Local lunch club. Every Wednesday from 12pm – 1pm, at St Peter’s Church, Coronation Avenue, Yeovil, BA21 3DY.

South Street Centre

The South Street Centre is dedicated to the over 50’s. We offer meals and activities, information and friendship. Our two services are the Day Centre with lunches, and the Yeovil Meals service.

The Day Centre offers a two course traditional lunch and all meals are cooked in our own kitchen using fresh, local ingredients. Just phone us before 11.00am for our Menu of the Day and to book your lunch or pop in and have a look at our weekly menu board in the foyer. Lunch served at 12.30 daily.Why not join us for morning coffee or lunch after shopping?

We have two large rooms at the centre which are available at various times for functions, meetings or presentations. Each day there is a range of activities from Flexercise, craft activities, singalong sessions to computer classes.

Yeovil Community Meals Service is a charity which delivers meals to vulnerable people in Yeovil, Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays). Meals are freshly cooked each day in the kitchen at Yeovil Day Centre and delivered between 12.00 noon and 1.30 pm by volunteer drivers.

Clients do not need to be referred and enquiries are welcome from any individual or representative of any person who cannot regularly prepare and cook a meal for themselves. The meal service would like to thank Marks & Spencer, Yeovil for their support.

South Street Centre, 20 South Street, Yeovil, BA20 1QE

Knit and Natter Yeovil

Fourth Thursday of the month at 2pm in the church room. A social group with refreshments and an opportunity to bring your own knitting or sewing, or just to sit and chat. At St James’ Church, Preston Road, Yeovil,  BA20 2EZ

Knit and Natter Crewkerne

Come and meet once a week for a sociable get together with other like minded knitters and crocheters. Bring a mug.

Meets every Monday, 10am – 12pm at Crewkerne Library, Falkland Square, Crewkerne,  TA18 7JS

Friends of the Yeovil Community

Friendly company and a warm drink!  Signposting support for those in need.  Every Friday 1.30pm -4.30pm at the Methodist Church, Cameo Room, Vicarage Walk, Quedam, Yeovil

Knit and Natter Martock

This is a FREE event that takes place in Martock Library every Monday from 2pm to 4pm. Everyone is welcome, young, old or inbetween; experienced or novice. Pop in and try it!

Martock Library, The Shopping Centre, Martock, Somerset, TA12 6DL

Community Coffee Group

Coffee community group. It is run for the community by the community, not just church members, and everyone is most welcome. Meet on Mondays from 10am – 12pm at St Peter’s Church, Coronation Avenue, Yeovil, BA21 3DY.

Pop-up Food Share – Ilminster

Food donated by Tesco and Coop and by members of the public. Coma along as often as you like, for a free tea or coffee, company and a chat.

Every Saturday 10:15 – 11:15.

Sweet Surprise, Silver Street, Ilminster.

Somerset Direct

Adult Social Care supports adults of working age and older people who have disabilities, mental health problems, a sensory loss or general frailty.

Safe & Warm Somerset – from Centre for Sustainable Energy

Safe & Warm Somerset offers free, practical advice to help make homes warmer, cheaper to heat and to reduce the risk of ill health and hospital admissions.  The project is run by the Bristol based charity The Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE).  CSE provides free energy advice via their advice line across the southwest and more in-depth case work is offered to those that need it through its Fuel Poverty and Energy Advisors.  They resolve issues relating to Fuel Poverty, Energy Awareness and Home Improvements by;

  • Giving energy efficiency advice in order to reduce household energy bills.
  • Applying for home improvement grants to combat damp, drafts and heat escaping through walls and ceilings.
  • Repairing, replacing or installing new central heating systems using grant funded installers.
  • Helping people understand their gas or electricity meters and bills.
  • Supporting those in fuel debt to manage it and make their payments affordable.
  • Dealing with disputes with energy and water suppliers.
  • Developing people’s financial skills and identifying benefits they may be entitled to.

This 5 minute video shows the kind of support offered.

Terrence Higgins Trust

Our advisers can provide emotional support if you are worried about your sexual health or have concerns about living with HIV. We can help you access services local to you across the UK, whether provided by us or by someone else. We can also help you if you’ve got concerns about: HIV or STI testing and accessing PEP, prosecutions for transmission of HIV, or any other questions about improving your sexual health.

The Intercom Trust

Intercom is a lesbian gay bisexual and trans community resource in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset. Providing help against homophobic and transphobic prejudice, crime and discrimination (including bullying, harassment, abuse, attacks, and threatening behaviour), helping to develop the LGB/T communities, providing professional training and consultancy, and working in partnership with local government, the police, health.

ExFor+ – veteran to veteran support

Gives direct support and signposting to the many charities in the veterans sector, to veterans and ex uniformed public services personnel.

Support includes;

– information & guidance
– signposting to appropriate charities
– mental and physical health
– personal development and recovery
– accessing grants
– education & employment advice
– business startup and self-employment support
– accessing Regimental Association support

Lord’s Larder Food Bank – Yeovil

The Lord’s Larder Food Bank is a local ‘bank’ of non-perishable food operated by volunteers from churches in and around Yeovil. Requests for food are made by phone through recognized agencies, who then collect parcels to hand on to their clients.

Taunton Support Group

Support group for those suffering with polymyalgia rheumatica & giant cell arteritis. The support group meets once a month. Please contact for more details.

Find a Micro-provider

Somerset County Council have now replaced the Somerset Micro-provider Directory with a new care brokerage or matching tool. This ‘Find a Micro-provider’ will help families and professionals connect directly with Micro-providers who have capacity to support. To use this tool please click the link below:

The National Osteoporosis Society

Charity dedicated to ending the pain and suffering caused by osteoporosis. Helpline is available between 9:00am and 5:00pm on weekdays except between Christmas and New Year and on Bank Holidays.

Hourglass (Safer Ageing)

Our vision is a society which values older people and one in which they and other adults can live free from abuse perpetrated by those in whom they have an expectation of trust.  Where such abuse occurs, we seek an environment in which it can be identified and addressed.

At Hourglass and through our helpline, we work for safer ageing and a fairer society.

Alzheimer’s Society’s National Dementia Helpline

If you have questions or concerns about dementia, call our National Dementia Helpline for expert information and support.

Helpline opening hours:

Monday to Wednesday: 9am – 8pm
Thursday and Friday: 9am – 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: 10am – 4pm

 

Ashill Village Hall Seniors Luncheon Club

We have had a wide range of topics and informative sessions that have been enjoyed by all. We also have days out to local places of interest.
Takes place on the first Friday of every month, from 11am – 3pm.
For more information contact Jane Simmonds-Short.

Zumba Gold

Zumba Gold is a low impact exercise suitable for beginners, over 50’s or those new to exercise.  Contact Debbie Knight for more information and the timetable. Meets at Odcombe village hall, Old Rd, Odcombe, Yeovil BA22 8XP on Fridays 10am

Careline South Somerset

Peace of mind for independent living. Personal pendant alarm giving reassurance and help at home, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. See website for prices.

Parkinson’s UK – Crewkerne and Villages Support group

Offering information, support and friendship to local people with Parkinson’s, their families and their carers. Please contact Valerie Hewitt to find out meeting locations and times.

Revitalise – physical activity for those living with cancer

Revitalise promotes Somerset based physical activity sessions which are delivered by qualified staff making them particularly suitable for those living with cancer and beyond. They are open to anyone so you can also go along with friends or family.

Being active has a significant impact on wellbeing when living with cancer. It can prevent and manage some effects of treatment. It helps you take back some control of your life.

 

Yeovil parents support group – Autism Somerset

All are welcome, you don’t need to have a child at Fairmead School. Meets third Wednesday of every month, 7.30 – 9.00pm at Fairmead School, Yeovil. Contact Steve Coles for more information.

Shopmobility Yeovil

Yeovil Shopmobility is a scheme providing powered scooters, as well as powered and manual wheelchairs to enable people with limited mobility to shop and use other pleasure/leisure facilities in Yeovil. We also have transportable equipment which will fit into the boot of a car for longer term hire.

Mind in Somerset

Mental Health Charity: Community day, wellbeing groups, gardening project and workplace empowerment project.

Preventing Falls – Stay Strong Stay Steady exercise programme

Falls are common in people aged over 65 years and older and are the leading cause of injury, and subsequently, can lead to impaired function, loss of confidence, isolation and a loss of independence. Strength, flexibility, balance and reaction times are considered the most readily modifiable risk factors for falls.

The Stay Strong Stay Steady exercise programme is designed specifically to prevent falls, consisting of leg muscle strengthening, balance retraining exercises and a walking plan.

Trained and qualified Instructors are providing classes at;
Archie Gooch Pavilion, Ilminster – Wednesday pm
Chard Guildhall, Chard – Monday am
Crewkerne – Coming Soon
Holy Trinity Community Centre, Yeovil – Tuesday pm
Martock Parish Hall, Martock – Coming Soon
Ridgway Hall, Langport – Wednesday am
Somerton Parish Rooms, Somerton – Thursday am
Methodist Church, South Petherton – Wednesday pm
St Peters Community Centre, Yeovil – Thursday am

The classes run once a week and the cost is £4.00.

The classes are aimed at people who; have a low risk of falling; may experience a fear of falling; feel unstable; have a history of falls (which has been investigated); have low bone density; a family history of osteoporotic fracture; and those who wish to increase muscle strength, balance and confidence. To participate in a class you will be required to complete a questionnaire/referral prior to attending, which will either need to be signed off by a health professional or send to us and we may be able to arrange this ourselves.

For further information and a form please contact Age UK.

The Little Book of Mental Health

The little book of mental health: a practical guide for everyday emotional wellbeing has been re-published by Public Health at Somerset County Council.

The digital version can be downloaded by clicking here.

Printed copies can be ordered via Louise Finnis, Health Promotion Manager – Mental Health, Public Health, County Hall finnis@somerset.gov.uk

Swan Advocacy

Swan will be delivering all types of advocacy for Somerset through a single point of contact; these advocacy services were previously provided by Somerset Council through four separate advocacy providers.  This new, comprehensive model of advocacy support ‘all under one roof’ will enable Swan to deliver the ‘Person Centred Approach,’ and will further meet the new requirements under the Care Act, which came into force of April this year. Under the new requirements Local Councils are required to provide an independent advocate to support an individual who is subject to care practices and is finding it difficult to understand the care process, or to speak up for themselves, and who does not have an appropriate person to help them.

Multiple Sclerosis Society – Yeovil Branch

Providing emotional and practical support, financial help, information and events.

Meets on the first wednesday of the month, 7pm – 9pm. Please contact for more information.

Reading Well – Shared Reading group – Yeovil

Feel better with a book at free Shared Reading group. Everyone is welcome to join to share a story and poem.

·         Yeovil Library, Mondays, 11.30am – 1.00pm

Please contact us for more information.

British Lung Foundation – Exercise classes and Breathe Easy support groups

Supporting people affected by lung disease, so that no one has to face it alone. Promoting greater understanding of lung disease and campaigning for change in the nations lung health.

BLF run exercise classes and support groups for people with lung conditions. Find your nearest groups here https://www.blf.org.uk/support-in-your-area

St Margaret’s Hospice

Services available to patients where their specialist skills, knowledge and expertise will provide relief for specific illnesses including breathlessness management.

New Free Digital Drop-in Sessions – Chard

Need help learning how to download E Books and E Audio Books? Already got the basics but need a little more help with IT or using your Tablet/Ipad? Then drop in and see us. No need to book.

Sessions are every Tuesday, 10am – 11.30am, at Chard Library, Holyrood Lace Mill, Holyrood Street, TA20 2YA

Henhayes Computer Group – Crewkerne

Are you struggling with your laptop, tablet or smartphone? Help is at hand! Session fee £3.50.

Tuesdays from 10am – 12pm.

Young Minds – child & adolescent mental health

We are the UK’s leading charity committed to improving the wellbeing and mental health of children and young people. Working closely with young people and families, we campaign on a number of issues impacting young people and their mental health.

Our activists campaign for political change and spread the message in schools, at events and online about how to look after your mental health. We also run a parents helpline, which offers free advice and support to any adult who’s worried about the behaviour or mental health of a young person.

We also offer training and consultancy to professionals who work with children – including teachers, doctors and mental health services. Finally, we provide a huge amount of information and support on their website and on social media.

Rough Sleeper Helpline

To report someone sleeping rough – calls are confidential.

LearnDirect

Provider of skills, training and employment services.

Headway Somerset

Headway Somerset provides a range of services and support for survivors of acquired brain injury (ABI) and their relatives.

Talking Headway Information and Support Line – 01823 215014 staffed Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1pm to 3pm. Open to anyone in Somerset with an ABI, their families, friends, work colleagues or any professional seeking information about ABI.

Hospital Liaison Service – supports people newly diagnosed with an ABI in Yeovil District Hospital, Musgrove Park Hospital, Somerset Neuro Rehabilitation Centre (SNRC). Contact: 07514753384 or 07561032329

Rehabilitation Service – a safe and supportive environment which enables individuals to re-learn skills that may have been affected after a brain injury. An opportunity to develop person-centred outcomes through cognitive and social rehabilitation activities and peer support – Centres in West Camel and Yeovil. Support also provided as Outreach in the home. Funding – contact Somerset Direct 0300 123 2224 to arrange a Needs Assessment. People can also fund this service through Direct Payments or privately. Referral form and details on our website. Contact 01823 618519

Making Headway Buddying Project – Trained volunteers who support people with ABI to take part in community and social activities. Contact tricia@headwaysomerset.org.uk or on 07927644128

Relatives Support – Support, information and Zoom educational sessions. Contact 01823 215014 or info@headwaysomerset.org.u

HELP! Counselling

This service is for for 9-25 year olds.“HELP has trained, independent, counsellors who can really listen to you in a non-judgmental way, and give you a safe space to talk through what is bothering you. No matter how large or small the problem seems to be, counselling can help you explore and understand your feelings, thoughts and your actions. You choose to start. You choose when to stop. You choose what you talk about.
To access the service fill in the forms on the website or call for information.
“We ask clients to pay what they can afford towards covering our costs. We ask clients to consider a sum between £3 and £40, that makes as significant a contribution towards covering our costs as possible but is not going to be a problem in that it might be a reason for not coming.”

The Cinnamon Trust

A national charity for the elderly, the terminally ill and their pets offering peace of mind and practical help such as dog walking and fostering.

The Cinnamon Trust is a national network of over 15,000 community service volunteers has been established to provide practical help when any aspect of day to day care of pets pose a problem, for example, walking the dog for a housebound owner.

A national fostering service is provided for pets whose owners face a spell in hospital. Volunteers take pets into their own homes and supply love and care in abundance until owner and pet can be reunited.  For more information about the service or to become a volunteer please call us or visit our website.

Yeovil Carers support groups – Somerset Partnership

Somerset Partnership offer support groups for those caring for people with mental health problems.

A group for carers of people with eating disorders: Meeting the first Monday of the month from 7pm – 9pm at Holly Court in Yeovil.

Mental Health Carers Group: Last Thursday of every month, 2.00pm – 4.00pm at Penn House.

South Somerset Healthy Lifestyles Team

Support for people across South Somerset to lead healthier lifestyles.

Flexercise at Millbrook Surgery – Castle Cary

A fun session of chair based exercise and music to help improve flexibility, boost confidence, and promote overall well-being.

Every Monday from 1-1.30. Free of charge but generally reserved for patients of Millbrook Surgery due to space.

Village Agents

Village Agents are local people employed on a part-time basis to become trusted members of their communities and a valuable resource. They make home visits where necessary and may carry out a series of practical checks related to safety in the home (e.g. smoke alarms, falls prevention), benefits entitlement and energy efficiency. Visits are followed up when necessary by experts who will provide specialist information, advice and services e.g. the fire service and social care.

To see which areas of South Somerset have a Village Agent, see the link below.

Live Well With Pain – online resources and in-person support

Live Well With Pain is an online portal with links and online resources to help those living with persistent pain.

Find out about the Ten Footsteps to Living Well With Pain, and information for carers of those living with persistent pain, on the website below.

There are also Live Well With Pain cafes – informal, welcoming and supportive groups for those living with long-term persistent pain conditions. These are run as part of the Rural Practice Network, a group of five GP surgeries in Wincanton, Bruton, Castle Cary, Queen Camel and Milborne Port. Please note: only those registered with these 5 surgeries are eligible to attend the cafes.

Live Well With Pain cafes take place in:

Milborne Port – 1st Tuesday of the month from 11.00am–12.30pm at the communal lounge at Wheathill Close (DT9 5EU)

Bruton – 1st Wednesday of the month from 11.30am-12.30pm at the communal lounge in Brue Avenue/Eastfield (BA10 0HT)

Queen Camel – 2nd Wednesday of the month from 11.30am–12.30pm at the communal lounge at Cleaveside Close (BA22 7PR)

Wincanton – 3rd Thursday of the month from 2.00-3.00pm at the communal lounge in Balsam Close (BA9 9HW)

Castle Cary – 4th Thursday of the month from 11.00am-12 noon at the communal lounge at Catherines Close. (BA7 7HP)

There is also an online monthly Live Well with Pain café on Microsoft Teams which takes place on the 3rd Wednesday of each month from 7-8pm and is open to any people registered with any of the 5 surgeries.

All cafes are free to attend.

For more information about these cafes, please get in touch with Sue Crisfield using the details below.

Musgrove Park Hospital Chaplaincy Team

Emotional, psychological and spiritual support for patients, relatives and staff whilst in hospital. Through the paid and voluntary chaplaincy team members each ward in the hospital is visited at least once a week. Support is offered to all and can be requested at other times on request. Making ongoing arrangements for support on request by putting individuals in touch with local organisations, activities or faith groups that can help.

Sundays 10.30am, preceded by bedside ministry on request.

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

This service is here to help when you need advice, have concerns or don’t know where to turn. As a patient, relative or carer, sometimes you may need to turn to someone for help, advice and support. This is where the Patient Advice and Liaison Service can help. This service is free and confidential. Our aim is to help sort out any problems or concerns you may have when using health services, agree the best way forward to deal with a problem and get it resolved as quickly as possible. We will do this by: offering advice and support to patients, their families and carers, providing information on NHS services, listening and responding to concerns, suggestions or queries, talking to staff, management and other organisations on your behalf, helping sort problems quickly on your behalf. Write to us: NHS Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group, Freepost RRKL-XKSC-ACSG, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 8HR or use the on line form at our website.

Disability Rights UK

Disability Rights UK campaign in parliament on behalf of all disabled people in areas including:

  •  Increasing opportunities in education and employment.
  • Changing attitudes to disability.
  • Independent living – getting a life.

We sell the RADAR accessible toilet key and the leading guide to benefits and rights – The Disability Rights Handbook.  These can be purchased from our online Shop.

To help disabled people understand the benefits system we have produced a number of factsheets that can be downloaded for free from our website.

www.disabilityrightsuk.org

Address; Plexal, 14 East Bay Lane, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford, LONDON, E20 3BS.

Continence Advice

If you have any problem with your bladder and/ or bowel, don’t be embarrassed about getting medical help. The symptoms can be improved, and sometimes cured, often with simple methods, or if not we can arrange onward referral to the most appropriate specialist.

Huntington’s Disease Association

Supporting people affected by the disease and to provide information and advice to professionals whose task it is to support Huntington’s disease families.

EAQ Manor Farm CIC

Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is an innovative way for children, young people and adults alike to reduce their anxiety, develop confidence and learn new skills with (or without) our horses in a natural outdoor environment. Since the first COVID-19 lockdown, to allow us to maintain the health & safety of both our staff & learners, we now only run 1:1 sessions – which have proven to be very successful and beneficial for all concerned. If you are interested please check out our website and contact us to arrange for a free taster session.

EAQ Manor Farm is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company based in the small village of Stocklinch near Ilminster.

PROMISEworks – mentoring for young people in Somerset

PROMISEworks is a Somerset-wide mentoring programme for young people between the ages of five and nineteen who are experiencing difficulties at home or with education and training.

Somerset Partnership Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/ME Service

GP referral service that offers support in following evidence based self-management strategies to manage the fatigue and other symptoms of CFS/ME. Provides education/training to individuals, carers, employers and external agencies.

Relate

for relationship counselling and family difficulties.

Dementia Advocacy Service

The Dementia Advocacy Service is run by Swan Advocacy in Somerset. Our project covers Somerset, Wiltshire and Bath & North East Somerset.

The Dementia Advocacy Service supports people with a concern about their memory or a diagnosis of dementia, to complete a Living Well Plan.

A Living Well Plan is a record of your hopes and preferences for the future. It allows you the opportunity to reflect on your past, identify things that are important to you today, whilst expressing your hopes and wishes for the future.

Please contact for more information.

Health Walks – exercise and meet people

South Somerset’s Health Walks Scheme is run by SSDC’s Healthy Lifestyles Team and is an accredited Walking for Health Initiative. Our Health Walks are led by trained Health Walk Leaders and are a great way of getting exercise and meeting people.  From beginners to challenging walks there are walks suitable for everyone.

Why not take a health walk and enjoy the beautiful South Somerset countryside? You could make new friends, relieve stress and benefit your health. Walking is simple, free and one of the easiest ways to get more active, lose weight and become healthier. It’s underrated as a form of exercise but walking is ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels who want to be more active.

Regular walking has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma, stroke and some cancers.

To see where Health Walks take place around South Somerset, please follow the link to the SSDC website for more details.

Chard Toddler Group

Toddler Group that runs every Friday from 9.30am – 11.30am at the Chard Baptist Church. Please call for more details.

Babes and Tots – South Petherton

Mum and tots group, every Wednesday from 10am – 11.30am at the Methodist Church Hall.

Contact Jenny Payter for more information.

Macular Society Telephone Befriending

Enjoy a regular chat with a telephone befriender who shares your interests, experience or type of macular condition. Telephone befriending is free, everything can be set up over the phone.

Action for Children – Chard Children’s Centre

The Children’s Centre aims to provide universal and targeted services in partnership with children, parents/carers, other agencies and the community that will improve outcomes and opportunities for all children in the geographical reach of the centre.

If you are a parent/ carer with young children aged 0-5 years, come along and join us for a free, fun play session including craft activities and a healthy snack.

Contact Claire Price for more information.

Location: 1st Floor, Clare House, Millfield, Chard, TA20 2DA

Rhyme Time – Yeovil

Make new friends whilst helping your child to develop their reading and language skills. All are welcome – Mums, Dads, Grandparents, Carers and Child-minders. No need to book – just join in! Every Monday from 10.30am – 11.00am (term time only).

Meets at Yeovil Library, King George Street, Yeovil, BA20 1PY

Messy Church – Yeovil

A morning of fun for children (accompanied by a parent or adult carer).  Crafts, games, activities, stories, songs and friendship. Join us as we find out more about God by having fun and making a mess!  Activities free – donations towards lunch. Booking essential.

Second Saturday of the month, 10.30am – 12.30pm. Meets at St Peter’s Church, Coronation Avenue, Yeovil, BA21 3DY

Yeovil Lego Club

Yeovil Lego Club. Children must be  aged 6 and above and accompanied by an adult. Every Saturday from 10.30am – 11.30am

Meets at Yeovil Library, King George Street, Yeovil,  BA20 1PY

Ilminster Toddler Time

Songs and Rhymes for pre school children of all ages. No need to book, and no charge –  just come along and join in! Every Tuesday (term time only). 10.30am – 11am.

Meets at Ilminster Library, Ditton Street, Ilminster, TA19 0BW

The Good Fellowship Club – Yeovil

A programme of activities provided is available on request. Activities provided include, Talks and speakers, games, outings, songs and music and crafts. For physically challenged older people. Meeting weekly on Thursday afternoons at the Moose Hall, St Michael’s Avenue, Yeovil, BA21 4LL

 

NHS Health Check

An NHS Health Check can help you identify potential risks early and give you personalised advice so you can take action to reduce your chances of developing these health problems.

You can have an NHS Health Check if:

  • you are aged between 40 and 74
  • you have not been diagnosed with heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or had a stroke
  • you have not had an NHS Health Check in the last 5 years.

See website or call to book a Health Check.

The Ivy Club – Tintinhull

The Ivy Club is an afternoon group for ladies and gentlemen aged 55 plus in Tintinhull. There is a small annual subscription and a small charge for refreshments, visitors are always welcome for a charge of £1 per meeting.

Meets the second and fourth Mondays of each month between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. Meets at Tintinhull Village Hall, Vicarage St, Tintinhull, Yeovil BA22 8PY. Contact Eileen Bennie for more information.

South Petherton Active Living

A place to come and chat and meet new people. We provide a range of activities which include; Quizzes, games, crosswords, trivia and puzzles, visiting speakers, painting, flower arranging and crafts, knitting, poetry and short story sessions. There is also Flexercise and indoor activity with Music and singing, calligraphy, Computer skills, and Wii games (Bowling, basket ball and table tennis).

Every Wednesday from 10am to 3pm.  Contact Rachel Follett for more information.

Grovelands Coffee Morning – Yeovil

Social coffee morning at Grovelands, first Wednesday of every month. 10am – 11.30am. Home made refreshments and chat.

£1 a session, first wednesday of the month, 10am – 11.30am. Grovelands, 45 Grove Avenue, Yeovil, BA20 2BE

Golden Oldies – Singing for Fun

Goldies Sing&Smile groups are NOT choirs, but fun social sessions where people come together to sing-a-long to the popular hits of the 50s onwards, chat, stretch and smile. You’ll be sure of a friendly welcome, lots of fun, tea and biscuits! Everyone is welcome, there’s a £2 donation to attend.

Meetings:

Chard – First Thursday of each month from 10.30am. Crowshute House, TA20 2EZ.

Crewkerne – Second Friday and fourth Thursday of each month from 2.00pm. The Henhayes Centre, TA18 8DA.

Martock – First Friday of each month from 2.15pm. The Parish Hall, Church Street, TA12 6JL.

Queen Camel – Second Thursday of each month from 2.00pm. Cleaveside Close, The Glebe, BA22 7PR.

South Petherton – First Tuesday of each month from 2.00pm. Burnworthy House, TA12 5AD.

Yeovil – On various Thursdays from 11.00am (see website for details). Mudford Rec Centre, BA21 4AW.

Contact The Goldies Office to find out more 01761 470006

MIND Advocacy

If you have a mental health issue or experience emotional distress, it can be difficult to express your wishes and represent your own interests to people who provide your care and treatment. MIND Advocacy help you to speak up for yourself and ensure your views and opinions are listened to.

Gentleman’s Club – Yeovil

Join us once a month for activities, socialising, lunch and refreshments. Two course lunch and all drinks included in the £6 fee.

Meets on the fourth Wednesday of every month. 10.30am – 1.30pm at Grovelands, 45 Grove Avenue, Yeovil, BA20 2BE

MHA Communities South Somerset

Through befriending, lunch clubs, assisted shopping, activity and friendship sessions, outings, escorts to appointments and much more, MHA’s Live at Home schemes across the UK help to tackle loneliness and isolation in people over 55 – helping them to lead fulfilled lives and remain as active members in their local communities.

Activities and services in South Somerset take place in the Wincanton Methodist Church Hall, 38 High St, Wincanton BA9 9JF, and include:

Tuesdays – Activity and Social Session – 10:30am – 1:45pm – £7

Every other Wednesday – Lunch Club – midday-2pm – £10

Thursdays – Laughter Group – 2pm-4pm – £5

A seated exercise group will soon be taking place on Wednesdays where there is no Lunch Club, and will cost £5 per session. Tea and coffee will be included.

Services will be expanding into Yeovil in the near future.

For more information about any of these services, please get in touch using the contact details below.

Martock Active Living

Local ‘get together’ including lunch. A range of activities provided at this group which include flexercise, quiz activities and speakers. Every Thursday from 10am – 3pm.

The best time to ‘drop in’ to find out more, is in the morning between 10 and 12am for tea or coffee. This is a friendly and sociable group who enjoy meeting up to talk, share their interests, and have a meal together.

Contact Caroline Bennett for more information.

Turning Point

Somerset Integrated Substance Misuse Service and SDAS Young People’s Service.

Physio Fit – Crewkerne

A chair-based exercise/physio session for all abilities, full of encouragement and positivity. Aimed at those recovering from health problems, suffering mobility issues, unable to move certain limbs or who are not as active as they once were.

Session fee £3.50 (Henhayes members) £4 (non-members). Booking essential.

Every Monday & Thursday 9:30 – 10:30

Ilminster Baby Boogie

Songs and Rhymes for babies under 12 months. Come and join in the singing, then have a chat with new parents over a drink and biscuit afterwards. No need to book and it’s all free! Every Friday (term time only). 10.30am – 11am

Meets at Ilminster Library, Ditton Street, Ilminster,  TA19 0BW

Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service (SDAS)

Free, confidential advice and support to anyone whose life is being affected by drug and/or alcohol abuse. To anyone of any age, their partners, friends, and family members.

Pathway for Adults

The support Pathways offers includes supported accommodation and resettlement support as well as advice on housing, benefits, and managing debts; it also refers clients to other specialist agencies.

We Hear You – counselling service for cancer or other life-threatening conditions

Provides free, professional counselling to anyone affected or bereaved by cancer or other life-threatening illness.

Alcoholics Anonymous support groups

Timetable of Somerset groups providing support for people experiencing alcohol related problems.

CoDA (Co-Dependents Anonymous)

A set of informal self-help groups made up of men and women with a common interest in working through the problems that co-dependency has caused in their lives.

Chard Tea Dance Club

Afternoon tea dance held at Chardstock Commemorative Hall every Wednesday afternoon between 2pm – 4.30pm.

Tea and biscuits provided.

An afternoon of sequence and ballroom dancing open to non-members and beginners.

Location: Chardstock Commemorative Hall, Chardstock, Devon EX13 7BJ
Contact: Stephen Moore

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People

We train clever dogs to help deaf people. That’s what we do in a nutshell – we train dogs to alert deaf people to sounds they would otherwise miss – simple sounds that many people take for granted like the doorbell, alarm clock and even danger signals like the fire alarm. Being aware of these – thanks to a hearing dog – makes a real difference to deaf people’s lives.

A hearing dog and their deaf recipient need to be carefully matched to ensure the partnership will work well. So many little things need to be taken into consideration – for example, we wouldn’t match a bouncy, bubbly Labrador with a 70-year-old lady with mobility problems. But that Labrador would make a great companion for a fit 35-year-old who loves going out jogging every morning. We take these important lifestyle factors very seriously to ensure we make the right match. Matches can take up to three years. There is so much more to find out so please contact Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.

Heads Up Somerset

Works with individuals affected by mental health issues and other difficulties, in order to help them towards recovery, increased independence and/or greater well being and quality of life. Offer a variety of courses, classes and therapies. Run ‘Memories’ workshops twice a week for individuals suffering with Dementia.

Smokefreelife Somerset

Smokefreelife Somerset is a free stop smoking service provided by Somerset County Council supporting Somerset residents to become smoke free.

Following all support being provided by phone appointment due to the Covid-19 outbreak, our service is now returning to face to face support. Initial appointments will be provided by phone followed by weekly attendance at one of our face to face support sessions.

Community Support Service – St. Margaret’s Hospice

If you are facing a life-limiting illness and have concerns or would like someone to talk to, call us. Offering a Friendly Phone Call service during Coronavirus – call 01823 333822 to find out more.

Alzheimer’s Society Memory Café – Yeovil

A place for people with dementia & their carers to meet others in a similar situation, in a relaxed social setting.

You can spend time sharing information & experiences, or simply have a cup of tea & a chat.

  • Improve your confidence and feel motivated by doing something fun
  • Chat with others in a similar situation
  • Get advice from our highly skilled, compassionate and experienced staff who are on hand to support you with anything you need

Held: Fortnightly on a Thursday, 10:30am to 12:30pm

Please call for more details about attending.

Relate

We support anyone dealing with break-ups, arguments, affairs, problems with sex, step-families, retirement, a new baby, or anything else that can affect a relationship.

Open Thursdays, 10.30am – 6pm, and Relate are based in 80 Great Mead Road, Yeovil, BA21 5EG.

SWEDA (Somerset and Wessex Eating Disorders Association)

Offering a wide range of services to those who have eating disorders and to those that are supporting someone with one.

Young People’s Suicide Bereavement Peer Support Group

A Peer Support Group for Young People bereaved by suicide (age 14yrs+). Our group involves exploring emotions linked to being bereaved by suicide, sometimes we have found using a creative exercise can deepen the experience in the group. Experienced young people’s bereavement support workers are present.

  • Death & Grief
  • Feelings & Self-esteem
  • Expressions of Grief
  • Memories
  • Funerals & saying Goodbye
  • Coping with Grief

Contact us for more information.

Sessions are held on the first Saturday of each month from 12pm-2pm at Mind in Somerset, Taunton.

Rosie Crane Trust

Committed to assisting in relieving distress, whether mental, physical, spiritual or emotional, caused by the bereavement of a child.

Forget-me-not Memory Cafe – Langport

Re-opening Jan 2022; Carers and relatives welcome too at Village Hall Curry Rivel; Call Adrienne 01458 252710 for more details.

Age UK Somerset – Exercise classes for over 50’s

Exercise Classes for Over 50’s 

Ageing Well is a National programme managed by Age UK and supported by Somerset County Council. The service promotes physical activity for mental and physical health and wellbeing – “adding years to life, adding life to years” – and organises activities and sessions throughout Somerset.

Check out the fantastic range of activities via the link below.

Integrated Rehabilitation Service

The service is available to all adults who are having problems carrying out everyday activities and want to work towards enhancing their quality of life through achievable goal setting to improve their ability to do the things that matter to them.

Over 55’s Keep Fit – Crewkerne

A slightly more energetic exercise class for the over 55’s.

Session fee £3.50 (Henhayes members) £4.50 (non-members). Booking essential.

Fridays from 9:30 – 10:30am.

Sport 50

Sport50 offers anyone over the age of 50 the opportunity to try a wide range of adapted sports which can include badminton, short tennis, boccia, seated volleyball, croquet and new age kurling.

Sport50 has clubs in: Ash, Bruton, Crewkerne, East Coker, Mudford, Somerton, Tatworth, and West Coker. Please get in contact with Catherine Devonshire for specific venues, days and times.

Yoga Stretch Flex for the elderly – South Petherton

Yoga combines breathing, relaxation and physical exercises to balance the mind. It also helps to improve flexibility and can aid posture by teaching relaxation of the neck, shoulders and back. It will help you to feel less stressed and will help with your flexibility and co-ordination.

The instructor can adapt the postures for either the floor or chair to suit individual needs and abilities. No previous experience is required nor do you have to be fit already as the stretches are gentle and involve posture and breathing.

Meets at the Methodist Church Hall, every Wednesday from 2.15pm – 3.15pm. Please contact for more details.

Mean Feet Dance

Specialising in dance and mental health.  Run groups with local communities. Contact Viv Gordon for more information.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Somerset Drug and Alcohol Partnership have a list of AA meetings in South Somerset, visit our website to view the directory of AA groups and view the groups in your area. Alternatively you can phone the Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service to find a group nearest to you.

Eddystone Trust

“We challenge the stigma, discrimination and misinformation associated with HIV and sexual health and work tirelessly with people affected by HIV to improve their quality of life. we provide a confidential service; we are here to listen not to judge”

Services they provide:

  • Pre & post HIV testing support
  • HIV testing, results in less than 30 minutes
  • Support & information on the best sexual health choices for you
  • A range of safer sex products, including condoms
  • Guidance and practical support on how to access clinical sexual health services
  • Help to access other services in your area
  • Free HIV & sexual health workshops and talks to local groups
Candlelight Club – Langport

Cosy, companion drop-in group for those bereaved. Refreshments. 10am-12pm. Starts 2/12/21 and 1st Thursday of each month thereafter.

Crewkerne Toddler Time

Bounce, clap, shake and sing along with us for a lively singing and story time. Ages walking to 4. Every Monday (term time only). 10.30am – 11am

Meets at Crewkerne Library, Falkland Square, Crewkerne,  TA18 7JS

SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society)

Sands is a UK charity that works across the country to support anyone affected by the death of a baby; improve the care bereaved parents receive from health care and other professionals; and reduce the number of babies who do die by funding research and working closely with other organisations to create a world where fewer babies die.

National Association of Widows

Offers support, comfort and advice for widows and widowers.

Crewkerne Lego Club

Lego club runs the first Saturday in the month for ages 4-8. Come along and play with our vast collection of lego, and make a model to go in our display cupboard. Booking preferred. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meets the first Saturday of the month, 10.30am – 11.30am

Meets at Crewkerne Library, Falkland Square, Crewkerne,  TA18 7JS

Winston’s Wish

The leading childhood bereavement charity and the largest provider of services to bereaved children, young people and their families in the UK.

Child Death Helpline

Helpline for anyone affected by the death of a child of any age, from pre-birth to adult, under any circumstances, however recently or long ago.

Child Bereavement UK

Child Bereavement UK supports families and educates professionals when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying, or when a child is facing bereavement. Every year we train more than 9000 professionals, helping them to better understand and meet the needs of grieving families.

Squats & Tots – Wincanton

Squats & Tots is an indoor postnatal exercise class for all levels of fitness where you do need to stress about childcare. It is adapted for new Mums to work on regaining muscle and strength lost during pregnancy and also for Mums that are just looking to join a fun group to move their bodies, get fit, lose fat and meet others.

Mondays 9.30 – 10.30am

Memorial Hall, Wincanton.

Start Running – Yeovil Town Road Running Club

Yeovil Town Road Running Club’s Beginner Group meets every club night, Tuesdays at 6.15pm. Meet at Yeovil Town Football Club (or at Goldenstones Leisure Centre if Yeovil Town are playing at home). Run leaders take out various groups at distances and pace to suit all members. No-one gets left behind. Get in contact for more details.

Health Complaints Advocacy Service

Can support you with an NHS complaint.

Somerset Neurological Alliance & Directory

The aim of the group is to champion the needs of people with neurological conditions, and their families and carers, living in Somerset.

Membership is open to anyone with an interest in its work, including people living with a neurological condition, family members and carers, representatives of neurological charities etc.

The group produced ‘A Guide to Neurological Services in Somerset’ in 2015 which is a very useful directory of support for people with neurological conditions. This is available as a pdf or on this website.

The Heard Therapy – equine assisted counselling & therapy

One-to-one Equine assisted counselling and psychotherapy social enterprise based in Long Sutton near Langport. The Heard Therapy is a client-centred and horse-centred therapeutic space set within the context of beautiful countryside with access to natural woodland.

Michaela and her team of horses, Reg, Star and Tigger, provide a safe and private space from which personal growth and development naturally transpire.

Michaela can combine various techniques and strategies, which include Mindfulness, Nature Therapy, CBT therapy, integrative therapy, and equine therapy. She works with clients aged 8 plus, including adults.

The Heard Therapy specialises in a personally developed approach to meet individual needs, with particular experience in working with: Trauma and PTSD, Complex Trauma, Autism and Neurodiversity, Autistic and neurodiverse people affected by trauma, LGBTQ.

From extensive practice and understanding, Michaela also works with a range of issues that include: Anxiety, OCD, Relationships, Depression, borderline personality disorder, addictions, behavioural issues, additional learning needs.

Crewkerne Baby Boogie

All pre walking babies are welcome to come to our singing, rocking, tapping and story session. Meets every Wednesday (term time only). 10.30am – 11am

Meets at Crewkerne Library, Falkland Square, Crewkerne,  TA18 7JS

The Maker’s Place – Ash, Nr Martock

A place to make, mend and grow in rural Somerset. Located on Spring Farm in Ash there is now a craft cabin with the aim to build an adjoining wooden workshop canopy. There is also a growing vegetable plot and a few animals to care for.

In time the team want to open up the facilities to all sorts of people, young and old to come to make, mend and grow things together. Learn new skills as well as make beautiful or useful things.

The team of volunteers would also like to provide people with the opportunity to learn about and grow in the Christian faith which is their strong foundation and motivation.

Walking Football

Football without the running. Great exercise for older people or those with a disability or condition. Open to men and women of all ages. Meets on Tuesdays, and has two sessions available, 5-6pm and 6-7pm. Meets at Bucklers Mead Sports Centre.

Arthritis support group – NRAS Yeovil Group

Yeovil Rheumatoid Arthritis Group, giving support for people with arthritis. From the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society.

All coffee meets will be held at Palmers Garden Centre Coffee Shop, Bernards Way, Bunford Lane, Yeovil, BA20 2FH from 10:30am-12:00pm.

Contact us for dates.

Versus Arthritis support group – Somerton

Versus Arthritis Somerton Branch.  We meet in the Parish Rooms, Market Square in Somerton on the 1st Thursday of each month at 7.30pm, except for January when there is no meeting.

Somerset Survivors – Domestic Abuse Support

Do you want to talk to someone about domestic abuse? Contact the Somerset Domestic Abuse Support helpline.

Opening Hours – 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm Saturday/Sunday.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please always call the Police on 999.

Kidney Care UK – grants

If you’re a kidney patient struggling to make ends meet we can help you. We provide personal grants to help pay for – domestic costs, household items, travel expenses, short term educational courses and training.

Our personal grants are available to: Dialysis patients and families on low income, Transplant patients and those receiving conservative care, if health and quality of life is being seriously affected by your renal condition.

What we can fund

Domestic costs: we can help with some domestic bills such as car insurance and tax, heating costs and rent. We may also help with the purchase of domestic goods like washing machines, beds and carpets.

Travel costs: we may be able to help with travel costs to your hospital if you have to travel a long way and have no support from your unit. We don’t help with travel costs for ongoing dialysis.

Short term educational courses: we may be able to help towards the cost of educational courses, IT equipment for education and give support for courses enabling return to work.

Applying for a grant leaflet

Before applying for a grant it’s a good idea to download and have a read through our Applying for a grant leaflet or if you’d prefer a hard copy, please contact us. If you’re a social worker or member of a kidney care team applying on behalf of a patient please read our Applying for financial aid guide

How to apply

You’ll need to contact your kidney unit social worker or a member of the kidney care team, as all applications for financial aid should come to us on a grant form completed with their input. However, if there’s no member of staff able to help, our advocacy officers can be contacted by contacting Kidney Care UK.

Lupus support & advice

Lupus is an autoimmune connective tissue disease which can affect any organ in the body.  It is a lifelong condition and can vary significantly in presentation and severity.

We have a team of volunteer telephone Contacts who are at hand to answer any questions or be a listening ear to those who need to talk.  All our Contacts have lupus themselves so are very sympathetic and understanding of what patients are going through.

Sunday Lunches – Barwick and Stoford

Roast Dinners for gay guys who need company and to help them make new friends on the Sunday that follows the last Friday in the month.

Call or email for details.

U3A – educational & learning opportunities for older people

U3A provides educational and learning opportunities for people who are retired or no longer in full-time work.  There are a wide range of courses and groups available.

The University of the Third Age (U3A) is an international self-help learning organisation for people who have completed their career or finished raising a family. It’s a time to enrich your lives with new skills and experiences, pursue interests and make new friends.

The U3A is different from other learning organisations – rather than pay people to teach, our members share their skills and talents with other members.

In South Somerset, there are U3A’s in Yeovil, Crewkerne, Chard, Somerton, Mattock, Castle Cary and the Blackmore Vale. You can find your nearest branch here https://www.u3a.org.uk/find

Yeovil’s U3A is the longest running one in the UK! They have around 250 members and 40 active groups.

My Diabetes, My Way

The NHS Somerset interactive diabetes website is there to help support people who have diabetes and their family and friends.
You’ll find leaflets, videos, educational tools and games containing information about diabetes. You may soon also be able to use this website to view your own up-to-date diabetes clinic results, to help you manage your condition more effectively.

Bladder and Bowel Community

The Bladder & Bowel Community aims to break the taboo of living life with a bladder or bowel dysfunction, diversion or condition, raise awareness and most importantly, help people get the advice they need. We provide information and wider support services for people with bladder and/or bowel conditions including their friends, families, carers and healthcare professionals. For further information please visit the website.

Provider of the free ‘Just Can’t Wait’ toilet access card – now available as a digital card – for those with symptoms such as incontinence, IBS and prostate issues.

Home Delivery Service: Bladder & Bowel Home Delivery
Support Group: Bladder & Bowel Community Support Group
FREE Just Can’t Wait Card

Singing for the Memory Group

Singing for the memory. Light refreshments provided. £2 a session.

Second wednesday of the month, 10am – 11.30am. Meets at Grovelands, 45 Grove Avenue, Yeovil, BA20 2BE

Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service

Offers emotional support and information for pet owners who may be experiencing the loss of a pet.

Community Computers UK

Charity which supplies computers to the disadvantaged on a non-profit basis.

Samaritans

Talk to us any time you like, in your own way, and off the record about whatever’s getting to you. You don’t have to be suicidal. We know a lot about what can help you through tough times. We can help you explore your options, understand your problems better, or just be there to listen.

It doesn’t matter who you are, how you feel, or what has happened. If you feel that things are getting to you, get in touch. We’re here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Local branches have different opening hours for face to face support. Find your local branches and numbers below

Yeovil: Morley House, 26 West Hendford, Yeovil BA201XE

Taunton and Somerset: 16 Wood Street, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 1UN

Call or check website for hours open to receive callers at the door.

Overeaters Anonymous

OA is not just about weight loss, gain or maintenance; or obesity or diets. It addresses physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. It is not a religious organisation and does not promote any particular diet. OA charges no dues or fees; it is self-supporting through member contributions. See website for details of local groups.

Transitions Advocacy Project

Are you a young person receiving support from services for mental health or drug and alcohol problems? Is it now time for your support to transfer to Adult Services? We know this can be a time of big change and you may be worried about losing support or that people are not listening to you about what you need. If you feel your voice is not being heard and you would like help to say what you want, an independent advocate might be able to help.

UK Online Computer and Laptop Class

Want to learn the basics plus a bit more with a computer or laptop? Come along and have some fun learning with us. Courses run for approximately 4 – 5 weeks.  Computers are provided but you can bring your own laptop if you prefer. Please call into the library for more information and to book your course.

Classes run on Thursdays from 10am – 12pm, at Chard Library, Holyrood Lace Mill, Holyrood Street,  TA20 2YA

Diabetes Community

This is a community of people with diabetes, family members, friends, supporters and carers, offering their own support and first hand knowledge.

Bereavement Advice Centre

Supports bereaved people on a range of practical issues.

Bereavement Benefits

We all need support after the death of someone close. Bereavement benefits provide extra money to ease the financial strain after the death of a spouse or civil partner. You can get support even if you’re not on a low income.

From April 2017, a new benefit Bereavement Support Payment (BSP) replaces three benefits:

  • Bereavement Payment
  • Bereavement Allowance
  • Widowed Parents Allowance

For more information, see link below.

Other help

If you need help to pay for a funeral, you may be eligible for a loan from the Social Fund or a funeral payment.

The Women’s Shed – Wincanton

The Women’s Shed was established in June 2017 and has gone from strength to strength. It was designed to run in a similar fashion to the popular Men’s Shed also at the Balsam Centre. We share our skills or have professionals come in to run some sessions.

The project provides women from military and local families access to traditional craft activities such as:

  • Hand sewing
  • Machine sewing
  • Knitting
  • Crochet
  • Jewellery making
  • Patchwork
  • Basic car maintenance
  • Bath bomb making
  • Candle making
  • Wet felting
  • Bird box making
  • Card making
  • Christmas decorations

Meets at The Balsam Centre in Wincanton every Tuesday from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Contact Nicola Micklewright for more information.

Chard Toddler Time

Come along and join in the fun with songs, rhymes, games and puppets.  Every Monday (term time only). 10.30am – 11.15am.

Meets at Chard Library, Holyrood Lace Mill, Holyrood Street, Chard, TA20 2YA

Counselling Directory

Counselling Directory lists counsellors and psychotherapists who are members of a recognised professional body or those who have sent us copies of their qualifications and insurance cover.

Memory Group – Crewkerne

For people with dementia or memory loss, the Memory Group provides a happy, social session offering a personal, engaging and interactive experience. The group offers company, comfort and stimulation with the option of a 2 course meal served at lunchtime. The 3hour session also provides a few hours valuable respite for carers.

Please note- before attendance an assessment will need to be undertaken to ensure the group is suitable. Please contact the Henhayes Centre on 01460 74340 for more information. 

Every Monday 10am to 1pm, lunch served at 12:30pm.

 

South Somerset MIND – the Emotional Outreach Project

Home visits, life skills, support groups. Aiming to improve the levels of physical and mental wellbeing in people that are not able to access transport or local services.

Counselling4Yeovil

Counselling4Yeovil is a Christian organisation offering affordable professional counselling in Yeovil to people of any or no faith. We aim to communicate our unconditional acceptance and valuing of each person we work with and to respect each person’s right to make their own decisions about how to live.

We developed from Yeovil Pregnancy Crisis Centre which has been counselling women in Yeovil since 2007 on issues surrounding pregnancy, miscarriage, abortion and infant death. We continue to offer a free counselling service to women and their partners dealing with these issues.

The Farming Community Network

Supports farmers and families within the farming community through difficult times. Helping people deal with a variety of issues, including financial difficulties, animal disease, mental health and family disputes.

Independent Age

For support on many issues affecting the elderly such as housing, benefits advice, hospital discharge, isolation, and care homes.

Mankind Initiative  

Mankind Initiative is a charity supporting male victims of domestic abuse.

Our confidential helpline is available for all men across the UK suffering from domestic violence or domestic abuse by their current or former wife or partner (including same-sex partner).

This can range from actual violence or object throwing to mental abuse such as constant bullying or constant insults.

We provide both emotional support and practical information.

Somerset Advocacy

Somerset Advocacy is an independent, not for profit organisation based in Taunton, providing a countywide advocacy service for vulnerable people who require support to have a “voice” in their lives.

LGBT drop in Coffee Morning – Barwick and Stoford

Coffee morning for gay guys at Barwick and Stoford on the 2nd Saturday in the month from 11 – 3 pm.

Call or email for details.

Re-Engage (formerly Contact the Elderly)

Monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties are a lifeline of friendship for lonely people over 75. Each older person is collected from their home by a volunteer driver and taken to a volunteer host’s home for the afternoon. Bringing people of all ages together, develop fulfilling friendships and support networks.

Yeovil Macular Support Group

The Macular Society is the only charity determined to beat the fear and isolation of macular disease with world-class research, and the best advice and support.

With the help of our members and supporters, we:

·        Fund new research into a cure so that future generations won’t suffer from sight loss caused by macular disease

·        Continue to help people of all ages adapt to life with sight loss, by supporting them to regain confidence and independence so they can take back control of their lives.

The Yeovil Macular Support Group meets on the third Thursday of each month, from 1.30-3.30pm, at South Street Centre, South Street, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 1QE.

Diabetes UK – 100 Things I Wish I’d Known

Diabetes UK produced a book called ‘100 Things I wish I’d known about living with diabetes’. The book is full of tips written by people living with diabetes, for people living with diabetes. Covering everything from going on holiday to eating out, working out and managing diabetes with work, relationships and more, it’s packed full of useful tips and handy hints for every part of life with diabetes.

They are no longer sending out physical copies of the book; however, as a result of its popularity, a PDF is now available to download. Follow the link below to download the book.

 

NHS Choices – Better Sleep

For information and guidance on all aspects of sleep including insomnia, snoring, sleep tips for children and conditions such as sleep apnoea, visit the NHS choices – Better Sleep.

Magdalen Environmental Trust

Magdalen Farm near Winsham offers tranquil, accessible surroundings and a range of supported programmes for families.

Magdalen Farm is the place to come to learn a new skill or volunteer your support – as an individual or team.

Local people play a key role on the farm.  A team of growers volunteer alongside our horticulturalist in the gardens to keep a steady stream of fresh and delicious produce coming into the kitchen, and to ensure it is a first rate teaching environment. Other volunteers choose roles including essential maintenance jobs and nature conservation.

If you are interested in joining the Tuesday volunteers please contact Linzie on 01460 30144.

Somerset Wildlife Trust

Volunteering with Somerset Wildlife Trust is a great way to use your skills and experience to make a difference for Somerset’s wildlife and, at the same time, a great way to spend time and socialise with like-minded people from across the county. Nearly four hundred people with a variety of interests, and from all walks of life, volunteer with us every year.

Our volunteer roles cover a range of areas and we have something that will suit a range of all skills and abilities; whether you want to get stuck into some practical conservation volunteering; would like to help in one of our offices or want to help us with a fundraising event.

The Sleep Charity

The Sleep Charity aims to raise awareness of the importance of a good night’s sleep to health and wellbeing and they aim to provide helpful advice and tips on how to improve sleep quality.

Sleep Apnoea Trust Association

The Sleep Apnoea Trust Association is working to improve the lives of sleep apnoea patients, their partners and their families. Managed by volunteers SATA is regarded as the leading UK charity working in the field of Sleep Apnoea. Although we support patients in many ways, we do not provide medical advice. If you suspect you may be suffering from sleep apnoea, your GP will be able to refer you to a specialised sleep clinic.

Countrymen’s Club

We run programmes for those aged 50+ from Rylands Farm, near Sherborne, which is known as The Countrymen’s Club and also a separate club for their carers. Activities are tailored to the preferences of the group & needs, which can be very broad ranging and include working with animals and spending time touring the farm and discussing changes, through to picking fruit or vegetables and then cooking a meal to be shared.

Other activities include art therapy, traditional songs and poems, general woodwork or small building projects. Building projects are driven by the needs of each site so usually relate to agriculture or horticulture.

As the session content is led by the Countrymen it is a varied programme but it always involves time outside in the fresh air – come rain or shine! The project is open to all, but is designed to address rural isolation and meet the needs of those with lifelong conditions who find it difficult to socialise & access the countryside or work activity.

Men living in South Somerset are more than welcome to come along to our Countrymen’s Club at Rylands Farm!

Chard WATCH

CHARD WATCH (Working Altogether in Chard) is a group of like-minded people whose aim is to provide other isolated individuals from Chard, and the surrounding areas, a safe place to grow by developing confidence, friendships and valuable skills. We give members an elevated sense of confidence and empowerment by enabling them to take their own positive steps. Change comes from within, and we help people take their first steps to fulfil their potential.

Our project offers a warm and non-judgemental social base where members can regain confidence by accessing various workshops and activities like art, reflexology, cooking, drama, walks, personal awareness courses and IT workshops. One of our most important engaging times are our tea and talk sessions whereby members bring subjects, ideas, plans, worries, etc. to discuss with other members, staff and volunteers. WATCH also delivers a variety of free self-management, peer workshops and bespoke courses both locally and across the whole of Somerset.

Please contact us for more information on what we can offer and how to become a member.

NCVO – National Council for Voluntary Organisations

NCVO champions the voluntary sector and volunteering because they’re essential for a better society.

Each day, millions of people make a difference through voluntary organisations and volunteering. Our vision is a society where we can all make a difference to the causes that we believe in.

We are committed to supporting, enabling and celebrating volunteering in all its diversity. Volunteering is someone spending time, unpaid, doing something that aims to benefit the environment or someone who they’re not closely related to. Volunteering must be a choice freely made by each individual.

We have a selection of resources to help you find a suitable opportunity.

Tots & Toys

Parents and Carers are welcome to this lively friendly group for 0-2’s. We have fun playing and chatting with singing time at the end. 10:00am every Tuesday in the church room with toys and refreshments.

Meets at St. James’ Church, Preston Road, Yeovil, BA20 2EZ

LifeHacks

LifeHacks is a new web based resource for a series of practical tips and ideas, developed by young people, to help promote and support young people to look after their own, and their friends mental health. Resource booklets, posters and postcard examples can be found on the website along with details on how to obtain them.

Route 1 Advocacy Volunteering  

Are you a problem solver, do you like a challenge? Could you use your life experience to help a child or young person having a tough time? For more information please contact Route 1 Advocacy. This volunteer role requires a criminal background check via the disclosure procedure.

Abbey Parents and Toddlers

A group for 0-4’s with craft activities ride-on toys, and singing time.  All Parents and Carers are welcome.

9:30am every Wednesday in Abbey Manor Community Centre.  Contact Jeny for more information.

Knightstone Individual Empowerment Service

If you’re a Knightstone resident, we can offer you tailored support in almost any area of your life, including help to manage your homes or tenancy, support to find a job, work experience or volunteering opportunities, help to connect with local clubs or activities, and support around money and debt management. We also run a crisis service to help get you back on your feet if something unexpected has happened.

PaPAS

PAPAS offers free practical help such as dog walking, respite care, fostering, grooming, transporting pets to the vets and administering basic medical care. Offering an alternative to pet rehoming, abandonment, neglect or even having a loved cat, dog or other pet, put-to-sleep during the owner’s period of ill health; thereby alleviating any distress a pet owner might suffer, enabling them to make a quicker recovery.

Route 1 Advocacy & Independent Visitor Service

If you are a Child receiving services from Children’s Social Care you could ask for an advocate:-

  • if you are worried or upset about something,
  • or if things are changing for you – perhaps you are moving placements or going to a new school.
  • an advocate can come with you to your review or other meetings about you.
  • The Advocates can also help you if you want make a complaint or resolve an issue.

A child In Care is also entitled to an Independent Visitor.

  • An Independent Visitor can visit you often.
  • Help you with your hobbies and interests
  • Explore new ideas and interests

Paladin – National Stalking Advocacy Service

Stalking is a pattern of repeated and persistent unwanted behaviour that is intrusive and engenders fear, it is when one person becomes fixated or obsessed with another and the attention is unwanted. Threats may not be made but victims may still feel scared. Importantly threats are not required for the criminal offence of stalking to be prosecuted.

Paladin is a trauma-informed service established to assist high risk victims of stalking in England and Wales. Our unique team of accredited Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers (ISACs) ensure that high risk victims of stalking are supported and that a coordinated community response is developed locally to keep victims and their children safe.

Diabetes UK online course – Type 2 Diabetes and Me

Virtual Village Hall

The Virtual Village Hall is a programme of themed online activities designed to enjoy at home. Sessions are led by expert tutors, Royal Voluntary Service activity coordinators, volunteers and some well-known faces, and require very little space or equipment. You’ll find a wide range of sessions to take part in, like creative arts and crafts, music and singing, cooking and baking, dance and exercise, and technology skills. Join in with live sessions or catch up on demand when suits it you.

Somerset Community Care Matters 

Seeking to provide access to specialist advice, advocacy and casework under Community Care Legislation in Somerset, get legal advice about the NHS, Social Services and Disability Rights. Ensuring that the most vulnerable people in our society do not suffer through lack of information or advice about their rights to Community Care under the Law. Working with multidisciplinary partners to achieve the best possible outcomes for people, we aim to help build a healthy, informed and caring community.

Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Somerset Website

If you are worried, either about our own or someone else’s memory, visit our website for local Somerset services and support.

 

NHS Choices online Mood Zone

Whatever you need to know about coping with stress, anxiety or depression, or just the normal emotional ups and downs of life, the NHS Choices Moodzone is here to help. Follow link below.

It offers practical advice, interactive tools, videos and audio guides to help you feel mentally and emotionally better.

LGBT Collective

The LGBT Collective is a facilitating body that connects lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans communities from across the South West peninsula. It lists local support groups.

Transgender Helpline

MindLine Trans+ is a confidential  emotional, mental health support helpline and signposting service for people who identify as Trans, A Gender, Gender Fluid, Non-binary.

We provide a safe place to talk about your feelings confidentially. We don’t record calls nor ask for any personal details. Our listeners will try understand the multitude of feelings and concerns that may be going on for you. We are here to listen and offer our support.

Operating Mondays and Fridays from 8pm – midnight.

Hearing Aid Maintenance and Repairs of Musgrove Park Hospital supplied Hearing Aids

If you have an NHS hearing aid supplied by Musgrove Park Hospital you can request a repair appointment by contacting the Audiology Department at Musgrove Hospital. Contact details below or text the word ‘audiology’ followed by your message to 07768 258508.

Library Free Talking Books Service

You can borrow talking books free of charge, if you are registered with a visual impairment, are unable to hold or use printed material due to a physical disability or if you are dyslexic.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica & Giant Cell Arteritis UK

We offer information and support at all stages – from diagnosis through to recovery. We provide information packs, a helpline, newsletters, support groups around the country, and a web forum where you can share your experiences and learn from other people with PMR and GCA. Above all we offer hope.

HealthUnlocked forum: where you can talk to and get support and advice from other people who are suffering from PMR and GCA – https://healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk

Facebook – where you can talk to and get support and advice from other people who are suffering from PMR and GCA – https://www.facebook.com/pmrgcauk/

Our Helpline runs from Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm.  The number is 0300 111 5090.

We are also setting up a telephone Buddy project where those isolated with either or both conditions can talk regularly to someone who understands.  For more details call – 0300 999 5090.

Somerset Younger People’s Support Group (Sparkies)

Update – this group is currently NOT running.

Parkinsons, their families and carers. The group is part of the Taunton and Mid Somerset Branch.  For details, please see our volunteer-run website. Group meets at various venues. Meets on last Thursday of each month. Room available from 6.30pm till 9.30. Contact Beth Maddock.

Tai Chi for people with Parkinson’s disease

A Tai Chi class specifically for people with Parkinson’s disease, to help with balance and muscle strength. This is a low-impact exercise combining deep breathing and relaxation with slow and gentle movements.

People with similar symptoms as Parkinsons can join the group too but please contact the local Wincanton Parkinsons Society first – Jennifer 01963 33837.

Monday, 12.30pm – 1.30pm

Veronica Room at The Balsam Centre, Wincanton.

£2 per session

Led by Lin Forrester.

Marie Curie Helper Service

A free support service by trained volunteers for terminally ill people and their carers.

Marie Curie helper service support people living with any terminal illness, and their families. We offer expert care, guidance and support to help them get the most from the time they have left as well as support for the carers.

Healthcare Travel Cost Scheme

It may be possible to claim back travel expenses to hospital appointments, if you are in receipt of certain benefits. You may be able to get financial help from the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme if you: • are on a low income • need NHS treatment at a hospital, other NHS center or private clinic • have been referred by a healthcare professional.
HTCS does not apply if you are: • visiting a GP or dentist for routine appointments • visiting others in hospital • visiting A&E or Minor Injury Units. Claims can be made to the individual hospitals.

Talking Therapies

We offer a wide range of treatments for adults 18 years of age and over who are registered with a GP surgery in the Somerset area, in a variety of different ways, so that we can help as many people as possible access talking therapies. Our aim is that our therapies should intrude as little as possible in your everyday life, but still have the best chance of delivering positive outcomes for you.

If you are 18 years or over and registered at a GP surgery in Somerset, there are a number of ways you can refer yourself to Talking Therapies:

  • Go to the Talking Therapies website and Click here to complete the secure online self-referral form.
  • If you have access to a printer you can print and complete this self referral form and return it to us via the freepost address:   Freepost RTRE-UJCG-XXZG, Referral Coordinator, Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Pearl House, Church Street, Bridgwater, TA6 5AT
  • Pick up a self-referral form from your GP surgery or your Community Hospital, complete this and post it back to us (Freepost).
  • Speak to your GP who can refer you directly to us.
  • If you are already receiving treatment through Somerset Partnership you can speak to your  Health Professional  who can refer you to us for an Emotional Health Check.
  • Call 0300 323 00 33 To book yourself in for an Emotional Health Check with one of our team.

 

Motor Neurone Disease Support Group

The branch is run entirely by volunteers and aims to provide the best possible support to local people with MND, their families, and carers. We provide support for people with MND and their family, either by direct contact with them at home and/or by joining the support group at Palmers Garden Centre, Yeovil. There are also various other events running throughout the year and the committee meets every other month. Call first to check meeting details.

Yeovil Pregnancy Crisis Support Centre

Provides free and confidential counselling service for women and their partners.

Jointly App for Carers from CARERS UK

Jointly is an app that makes caring for someone a little easier, less stressful and a lot more organised by making communication and coordination between those who share the care as easy as a text message. It can be accessed by laptop, smart phone or desktop computer.

Somerset Children and Young People’s Health & Wellbeing- Mental Health Toolkit (MHT)

This area of the Somerset Children and Young People’s Health & Wellbeing website provides support to schools, colleges and Somerset ‘getset’ services about mental health and emotional health & wellbeing. It brings together key information and recommended websites for staff working with children and young people in Somerset.

Online Youth Mental Health Hub from NHS Choices

An online information hub offering young people advice and help on mental health problems including depression, anxiety and stress.

Supporting Disabled In Need

We may be able to help people in need, living in the South West, with funding for respite holidays, days away, taxis etc. Registered charity 1069330

Home Fire Safety Check

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service offer a Free Home Fire Safety Visit – a visit involves a fire and rescue service employee visiting your home to give advice and guidance to help with fire safety needs e.g. fit a smoke detector if there isn’t one, provide advice about hazards around the home, talk through an escape plan and provide additional safety items such as vibrating alerts (subject to criteria). Also advice for people with hoarding issues.

Somerset Community Food

A grass-roots charity in Somerset which aims to re-connect people with the social, health and environmental effects of growing, buying, preparing and eating local food.

Home Exercise Booklets

Later Life Training have produced some home exercise booklets for people to print out.

These booklets have been designed to be used by LLT qualified instructors with their clients to promote home exercise between group sessions as we know that regular exercise (at least 3 times a week) makes a difference to the speed of positive outcomes.

See disclaimer at end of booklets.

DeafPLUS Mobile Advisory Service

The DeafPLUS Mobile Advisory Service gives advice and information on all aspects of hearing loss. You can find out more information and access support via our website or contacting us by phone or email.

Action on Hearing

Action on Hearing are experts in providing support and information for people with hearing loss and tinnitus. We supply communication services and training. We offer practical advice to help people protect their hearing. We send out leaflets and catalogues. We have a Samaritan trained person to support  people overwhelmed by Tinnitus. For more information about the service, visit our website or call the freephone number below.

Easyhealth website

Created so that people know where to find ‘accessible’ health information.  ‘Accessible’ information is information that uses easy words with pictures covering food and exercise; informative health videos and useful health advice. There are over 500 leaflets on Easyhealth made by many different organisations.  You can print off nearly all the leaflets straight away.

MindEd

MindEd is a free educational resource for all adults on children and young people’s mental health.

Miscarriage Association

If you’ve been affected by miscarriage, molar pregnancy or ectopic pregnancy, we hope this website will provide the information that you’re looking for.

We hope that family, friends, colleagues and health professionals will find the site helpful too.

We’re here to help you through.

ARC (Antenatal Results and Choices)

ARC offers non-directive information and support to parents before, during and after antenatal screening; when they are told their baby has an anomaly; when they are making difficult decisions about continuing with or ending a pregnancy, and when they are coping with complex and painful issues after making a decision, including bereavement.

OCD UK

OCD UK is the leading national charity, independently working with and for almost one million children and adults whose lives are affected by Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD typically falls into four categories Checking, Contamination / Mental Contamination, Hoarding, Ruminations / Intrusive Thoughts.

Accessible Countryside for Everyone (ACE)

For information on disabled access, wheelchair walks, easy access for all, mobility, Walks on Wheels, Miles without Stiles and buggy walks visit the ACE website.

This site also provides information regarding taxi companies with disabled friendly taxis, along with wheelchair and scooter hire.

Mindfullness www.headspace.com 

For thousands of years, meditators have claimed many benefits for their practice. Our experience, and that of Headspace members, suggests that regular mindfulness practice, through meditation, is an effective treatment for stress, worry, lack of focus, relationship problems, addictions and more.  Please access the website for more information.

Disabled Persons Railcard

You may be able to apply for a disabled person’s rail card, if you are in receipt of certain benefits, are visually impaired or registered as deaf, please see website for details, the card will allow you a third off rail travel and costs £20.00 a year.

National Express

National Express, Senior Coach Card, Disabled Coach Card and Young Persons Coach Card give a third off standard fares. Coach Card costs £10 a year.

Support for people with dementia or their carers who have been in the Armed Forces

The Royal British Legion provides lifelong support for the Armed Forces community – serving men and women, veterans, and their families. This includes Admiral Nurses and Care Homes. Please note that Legion beneficiaries can be either the person with dementia or the carer.

HOPELINE UK

What is HOPELINE UK?

HOPELINE UK is a confidential support and advice service for:

  • Young people under the age of 35 who may be having thoughts of suicide
  • Anyone concerned a young person may be having thoughts of suicide.

A HOPELINE UK advisor will hear about the things that are happening in your life that are contributing to your thoughts of suicide and provide advice about how you can cope with your thoughts of suicide, or where you can access help. You can also speak to our HOPELINE UK advisors to get advice about how to start a conversation about suicide with someone you are concerned about, and how to best support them. Run by the charity Papyrus.

Open 9am – midnight every day of the year.

Concessionary Bus Pass – Transporting Somerset

English National Concessionary Travel Scheme Passes are available for residents of Somerset who are of pensionable age or eligible on the grounds of disability. The pass allows you to travel free on buses in every area of England subject to certain time restrictions. Download application form online or contact Transporting Somerset who will post form.

SPRING

Exercise and information during and after your cancer treatment at Yeovil District Hospital.

Royal British Legion Care Homes

with specialist dementia wings for long term residency or respite care.

Stroke Association Email Befriending

If you would like support from someone who has been affected by a stroke, then you can contact the Somerset Stroke Association.

Life after Stroke Grants

Life after stroke grants provide a one off payment of up to £300 to fund vital home or personal equipment or by funding support to become active in your local community. If you are a friend or carer of a stroke survivor who would benefit from this support please visit our website or ring us to find out more information.

Barnardo’s – Mandala Project

Mandala offers a therapeutic package of in-depth child psychotherapy, supporting early childhood trauma, insecure attachment and low self-esteem. We work closely with parents, carers and key professionals to provide gentle, nurturing therapeutic support to help them recover from trauma they have experienced and promote a better understanding of their needs.

Self Help Guides

Somerset Partnership have put together a collection of self help guides. These are available to view when you follow the link below. The guides cover these topics:

Alcohol and You
Anxiety
Bereavement
Controlling Anger
Depression and Low Mood
Domestic Violence
Eating Disorders
Food for Thought
Health Anxiety
Obsessions and Compulsions
Panic
Postnatal Depression
Self Harm
Shyness and Social Anxiety
Sleeping Problems
Stress