Library of Services

Accuro

Accuro provides social and leisure opportunities for children/young people and adults from the age of 8 plus. We aim to increase, confidence, self esteem and independence through a range of clubs and activities in Uttlesford, Harlow and Epping. Please contact us to find out what is available in your area

ACL Essex
Adult Learning

ACL (part of Essex County Council) offers a wide range of daytime and evening adult learning courses to help you with your health and wellbeing, improve your job prospects, learn a new skill, or simply inspire you. Our ACL Harlow Centre also offers FREE Mental Health Wellbeing and Recovery courses.

Action for Family Carers
Activity groups for people with Dementia or Memory Problems

Our groups help people with Dementia or Memory problems and their Carers.

Keeping Active groups offer the change to engage in a wide range of physical activities.

The Active Minds group consists of activities that stimulate mind and memory.

Both groups offer the chance to socialise and have fun.

Action for Family Carers
Feeling Good, Caring Well

Our new initiative to help support Carers with their Physical, Emotional and Mental Wellbeing

Coming to an area in Essex near you!

Activities include

• Stress Reduction techniques
• Head/Neck Massage
• Light Physical fitness
• Reflexology
• Outdoor Activities

Action for Family Carers
Young Adult Carers (ages 16 - 24)

If you're aged 16 - 24 and are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, tired, or just missing out on opportunities your friends take for granted, we can help. We provide Young Adult Carers support and information when it is needed through social opportunities, while providing support for your family.

Action for Family Carers
Young Carers (ages 6 to 18)

Support for young people aged 6 to 18 who help to care for a family member. This person may have a long term illness, a physical or sensory impairment, mental health problems or a drug or alcohol addiction

Action On Addiction
M-PACT

Our highly acclaimed Moving Parents and Children Together Programme (M-PACT) is a whole family, structured support programme which aims to improve the well-being of children and families affected by substance misuse.  The program provides a weekly space to share, to learn, to be heard and affirmed but also to be challenged.  

The programme structure is made up of 10 sessions. 8 core sessions one day a week followed by an individual family meeting in week 10, to review the programme and to make future plans, there is a reunion for all families 12 weeks after the review session. Transportation is provided for the families if needed.

Criteria for MPACT: *The children and young people are generally between the ages of 8-17; *Family members affected by substance misuse can also participate, such as nan, aunty, uncle, grandad; *Families affected by substance misuse.

Active Essex
ActivAte Holiday Clubs

Active Essex is offering a range of ActivAte clubs over the summer half-term holiday! These clubs are completely FREE for young people who are eligible for benefits based free school meals, and will include fun activities, including sports and arts & crafts, for 4 hours a day over 4 days of the half-term.

ActivAte clubs will take place across Harlow, Epping Forest and Uttlesford, in various locations across these districts.  Some clubs will include SEND and mental wellbeing support.  Click 'DETAILS' for more information.

To book, go to:  https://www.activeessex.org/west-essex-activate-your-holiday-club-booking-links/

Adult Mental Health Wellbeing Team

The Adult Mental Health and Wellbeing Team provide short term support for people with mental health and emotional issues such as • Anxiety • Low mood • Stress • Depression.  We can work with you to help you improve your wellbeing and quality of life. Our aim is to help you regain control and to move forward. 

We CANNOT support you if you are in contact with Secondary Mental Health services provided by EPUT, e.g a psychiatrist or a Specialist Mental Health team.

Affinity Water
Free Home Water Efficiency Check

Great news!  We offer Home Water Efficiency Checks to help you save water, save energy and save money.  Each visit takes between 30-45 minutes and is worth around £80 but is absolutley FREE to our Affinity Water customers!

A trained technician will:

• Check for leaks
• Fit effective water saving devices where possible
• Identify ways you can save water and energy to reduce your bills
• Provide water saving advice to fit into your lifestyle.

Age UK Essex - Befriending
Befriending Service

Telephone Befriending - we provide a weekly telephone call for a friendly chat.

Age UK Essex Advocacy, Information & Advice Service
Advocacy, Information & Advice Service

Supporting the Community provides practical advice and information around benefits, housing, social care, legal issues, bereavement and local services.

Alzheimer's Society
Dementia Connect Essex Professional Referrals

Through Dementia Connect our expert Dementia Advisors provide information, practical guidance and support to help those living with dementia cope with day-today challenges and prepare for the future, connecting them to the right support, at the right time, in the right way. 

Please submit referrals using the weblink provided.

If you haven’t registered with Dementia Connect before, click ‘get a referral ID’. It only takes a minute or two to register, and you can then use the referral form using your email address straight away.

Alzheimer's Society
Dementia Connect Support Service

Through Dementia Connect our expert Dementia Advisors provide information, practical guidance and support to help you understand dementia, cope with day-to-day challenges and prepare for the future, connecting you to the right support, at the right time, in the right way. They work with people worried about their memory, people with dementia, their carers and family members to identify their needs and to put in place personalised effective support plans to address these.

Better Divorce Course

The purpose of the course is for you to achieve a 'better divorce' than you would if you weren't on the course.  It will help you to:  Transition to a life which comes after divorce/separation; Do what is best for any children in your family; Reduce the emotional and financial cost of the divorce/separation process.

Course content will include: Approaching divorce in terms of 6 key areas - children, home, finances, career, interests and relationships; Learning how to look after yourself during the divorce proceedings and build resilience; Defining goals and plans as you move through the divorce process; Joining a network of people who are also experiencing divorce or separation and who can support or challenge you.

Bipolar UK
Harlow Support Group

Bipolar UK is the national charity dedicated to supporting people affected by bipolar. Every month we support over 1,000 people with bipolar to stay well. This includes those with bipolar, those pre-diagnosis, and supporting their family and friends. 

Our Harlow Support Group is run by volunteers and meets the third Tuesday of every month.  No referral is required, sessions are free to attend and you can drop in and leave as you wish.   You don't have to attend every session.

British Red Cross
Mobility Aids

We provide a range of mobility aid equipment for loan and sale. Equipment includes wheelchairs, commodes, highback chairs, raised toilet seats and walking aids.

CanalAbility

Provides fully adapted and accessible canal boats to enable people with disabilities to enjoy relaxing and uplifting holidays and day trips on the river. Our boats are adapted not only so that people with mobility difficulties can get on to and around the boats, but also offer facilities such as hoists and remote steering.

CARA
Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse

We offer a confidential and non judgemental support service for survivors of sexual abuse and violence. This could have occurred recently or in the past and could involve a stranger, a relative or someone you know.

To make a referral please use CARA's online form:

https://www.dpmscloud.com/external/referralformorgessex

Carers First - Adult Carers
Adult Carers

A community-based service which supports carers to sustain their caring role whilst maintaining their own health and well being. If you look after someone......who looks after you? You can contact us to talk about your caring role and discuss any support you may need.

Changing Lives Community Services
Holiday Camps

Working with Active Essex on their ActivAte programme we provide FREE school holiday sports and activity programmes for children on free school meals or families who need additional support during the school holidays.  Our hubs are based in Harlow and Uttlesford at various locations. Our Harlow hubs include SEND and mental wellbeing support. Age range:  5 - 12 years.  Click 'DETAILS' for more information. 

To book, go to: https://www.activeessex.org/west-essex-activate-your-holiday-club-booking-links/

Citizens Advice Harlow

We offer information and advice on issues such as benefits, money, debt, relationships, housing, employment, legal, consumer and discrimination.  We can also assist with making phone calls, writing letters, completing forms, negotiating on your behalf and directing you to other useful organisations.  We have recently launched our new ‘Help to Claim’ service where we can offer support with making a claim for Universal Credit.  We monitor impacts and inform the government about unintended consequences of policy changes on individuals.  We are also "Advice Quality Standard" registered.

Citizens Advice Harlow
Law Clinic

We are a Law Clinic at Citizens Advice Harlow offering free half hour appointments with specialist solicitors who can cover a wide range of legal issues including family, employment, immigration, consumer, criminal and housing.

Citizens Advice Harlow
Warm Homes Essex

Warm Homes Essex is a service set up to help people in our community improve their health through practical advice for fuel poor households.

We can help you in a number of different ways with fuel debt, benefit entitlements, emergency fuel payments, saving energy, and getting the best tariffs for you.

Community 360
Essex Family Support Service

Support for families in Essex including children & young people 8 to 19 years with LOW LEVEL 1 and 2 needs. Help to improve relationships, behaviour, social connections and emotional health and wellbeing. In addition to signposting to local services and activities a Volunteer Family Mentor may be allocated to give up to 10 weeks of support.

Community Agents Essex

Supporting independent living through social inclusion: getting out and about; increase confidence to go shopping, visit neighbours or other places; mobility in the home; adaptations for ease/safety; meeting people; local groups/activities to make new friends; healthy eating/living; practical support/information.

Community Embrace UK

We are a non-profit community organisation established to promote diversity, advance cohesion & integration and encourage dialogues by connecting people of diverse backgrounds together through a range of services aimed at alleviating of food poverty, encourage social inclusion and support mental health. Our services include surplus food distribution, forums and community engagements.

Cruse Bereavement Care (Harlow)
Cruse Bereavement Care

Bereavement counselling for all, irrespective of the time since the bereavement. The service is on a self-referral basis only. We offer free one-to-one support and support for children, young people and adults throughout the Harlow district.

cst.today
CST.Today

Due to covid restrictions we now offer one to one Cognitive Stimulation Therapy online. This is a fun way to help improve memory and confidence and bring back the joy of life! Family carers are welcome to join in with the session too.

CVS Uttlesford
Essex Shed Network

A community shed offers a safe space where men share the tools, skills, experience and resources they need to work on projects of their own choosing at their own pace. They are places of skill-sharing and informal learning, of individual pursuits and community projects, of purpose, achievement and social interaction.

Deafblind UK
Deafblind Organisation

The Deaf Blind Organisation offers support and guidance to deafblind people, their carers, family and friends, as well as professionals working with people who have a loss of both hearing and sight.  We also offer The Befriender service for those who are feeling lonely. We’re also keen to help those recently diagnosed, using the befriending process as a means to prevent social isolation.  Our popular Peer Support & Social Groups provide those with both sight and hearing impairments plus their carers an opportunity to meet people and make friends.

Defence Medical Welfare Service
Welfare Service

Since 1943 the Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) has been providing a unique, highly responsive and professional medical welfare service to those who serve the nation. Our welfare officers provide practical and emotional support to frontline staff during times of physical or mental ill health to improve wellbeing and recovery.

DMWS Welfare Officers work with patients when their medical needs are being met but when other issues, problems or social influences may be distracting them from their recovery. We provide practical and emotional support to ensure that no family goes through the worry of injury or illness alone.

Dementia Adventure
Holidays and Short Breaks

If you or someone you love is living with dementia you may feel that holidays are no longer an option. Perhaps, traditional models of respite that separate families don’t appeal to you. We may have the answer. We offer small group, supported holidays for people with dementia and their partners, family, friends or carers to enjoy together.

Our holidays are subsidised through fundraising to enable as many people living with dementia to benefit as possible. Our trained team and expertly planned itineraries mean you can have the holiday you have been hoping for. Whether you want to relax by the coast or walk up mountains, we have something for everyone

Dogs Trust Freedom Project
Dogs Trust

The Dogs Trust Freedom Project is a free dog fostering service for people that are fleeing domestic abuse and going into refuge or emergency accommodation. This service is available across the whole of West Essex. This is a free service and all the dog's expenses are covered by Dogs Trust.

ECL Hub
ECL Harlow Hub

The service offers support for adults who have physical, sensory or learning disabilities.  We offer a person-centred service which aims at promoting and supporting progression for people that attend.

The hub has a sensory room and runs a variety of activities throughout the week such as community activities, cooking, arts and craft, floristry.

A Work Based Training Team on site give advice, guidance and support to people with learning disabilities who want to progress into voluntary or paid employment, as well as training opportunities in the onsite café.

ECL Sensory Service

Face-to-face delivery of this service is temporarily suspended.  But if you wish to speak with us regarding any sight or hearing loss issues then please call us on 03330133262 or email:  sensoryservices@essexcares.org 

We are a team of sensory specialists delivering needs-led and person-centred services to people with sight, hearing and dual sensory impairments, their families, carers and the wider community. Our high quality services are focused on early intervention, improved wellbeing and maximising independence.

EFDC - Community, Culture and Wellbeing
Social. Active. Strong

The service is a falls prevention service for all adults aimed at reducing their chance of falling by increasing their strength and mobility through a FREE 12 week progressive physical activity programme. Each session is low impact, and structured so that many residents can benefit from the programme. Friendly and social class to help them improve Participants' wellbeing. These sessions are great whatever your age. Our qualified instructors will be able to tailor the session to meet your needs and ensure your enjoyment.

Employ-Ability
HeadsUp

HeadsUp offers employment support to people who have/are experiencing common mental health problems such as anxiety, low confidence, and depression. We work with participants on their wellbeing and resilience along with practical job seeking skills.

We work with you to develop your self-confidence, resilience, and well-being, as well as helping you with the practical aspects of finding a job. 

Epping Forest Community Transport

We offer a service that meets the needs of local people who, for various reasons, are unable to use conventional public transport. The service offers a lifeline in both rural and urban areas, and includes the elderly, disabled or those who are rurally isolated and unable to access public transport.

EPUT - West Essex Macmillan
Cancer Information and Support Service

Support and information to anyone who has concerns about cancer, their relatives, friends and carers. We offer befriending and respite support in your own home. We can provide details of other local and national cancer support agencies and services and benefits advice. We provide a supporting service to allow patients, relatives and carers to access suitable national and local information about cancer, cancer prevention and local services.

EPUT - MS Nurse Specialist
MS Nurse Specialist

The MS Nursing Service offers support and guidance for people with MS from diagnosis onwards. I offer advice regarding treatment options, symptom management, general support for the patient and their family, onward referral to appropriate services and liaison between the community team and acute services.

EPUT - Single Point of Access
Single Point of Access

The Single Point of Access service (SPA) is the referral coordination centre for Community Services.  

Provided by community nurses, case managers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, dieticians, respiratory nurses and palliative care providers.

Open 8am to 9pm, 7 days a week, including Bank Holidays. 

Essential Living Fund

If you find yourself in need of some help this winter, the Essential Living Fund can help pay for heating, electricity, water and food.  We can also help you get essential household items like a fridge, cooker or table.

To get a grant you must live in Essex and be aged over 16.

Visit www.southend.gov.uk/elfforessex OR if you are vulnerable or have no access to the internet call 0300 7900124 (calls charged at standard rate).

Essex Befriends
Befriending

Whether you are feeling lonely, isolated, have stopped doing things you once loved, or generally lack confidence; we are here to help.

We offer a range of support including telephone, face to face and email befriending. You can start to build confidence, develop new connections and get back to doing something you love or find new interests.

Essex County Council
Family Innovation Fund Early Help Services

These Early Help Services have been commissioned by Essex County Council and are for children, young people and parents/carers with low level needs, as detailed in the Essex Effective Support for Children and Families.

Parents and young people (over 13) may self-refer.

http://www.escb.co.uk/

Essex County Council
The Attendance Specialist Team (West Essex)

The Attendance Specialists offer strategic support to schools regarding school attendance, and advice/guidance to parents regarding school attendance. The Attendance Specialist Team encourages members of the public to contact us where it appears that a child or young person may not be receiving a suitable education at school or otherwise. This information will be shared with ECC's Children Missing Education Team to investigate the circumstances and seek to remove any barriers which are preventing the child or young person from accessing a suitable education. Where schools are concerned about absence levels, they will seek to work with parents/carers to address these concerns and where attendance does not improve, may consider referring the matter to ECC Attendance Compliance Team.

Essex County Council Educational Psychology Service (West Essex)
Parent-4-Parent Support Group

Parent4Parent is a parent and carer support group for those whose children (aged 0-25) have social communication difficulties (with or without any diagnosis) or who experience difficulties coping with interaction and the social world. We aim to address the isolation that parents and carers often feel over a welcoming tea or coffee.

Essex County Council Youth Service
Good Man - Male Mentoring Programme

Good Man is a five week male mentoring programme for boys and young men who are at risk of entering into abusive relationships in the future and/or are at current risk within an abusive relationship. It can be delivered on either a group work or 1:1 basis, depending on need. The areas covered include: Making relationships work; Relationships in a digital world; Confidence; Manners and respect; Consequences; and Healthy relationships.

Essex County Council Youth Service
Prison No Way

Prison No Way is an interactive, practical and varied programme for young people who are becoming increasingly susceptible to being drawn into criminal activity, whether they are aware of this or not. The project looks to educate young people by exploring the realities of crime and offering insights into the consequences and relevant processes.

Essex County Council Youth Service
Sisters In Strength - Female Mentoring

Sisters In Strength is a five week mentoring programme for girls and young women who are at risk of entering into an abusive relationship, becoming a potential perpetrator within a relationship or are currently in an abusive relationship. Areas covered include: Making relationships work; Relationships in a digital world; Confidence; Manners & respect; Consequences; and Healthy relationships. 

Essex County Council Youth Service
Essex Youth Service

Going along to a Youth Group near you is a great way to meet other young people, get support and try new things. Some of our centres have groups for all young people, others have groups focussed on sports, Duke of Edinburgh Award, music, support with life and learning, and more.

We have centres in Dunmow, Stansted and Saffron Walden offering an exciting programme of activities and opportunities.

Essex County Fire & Rescue Service
Home Safety Visits

We provide the occupier with general fire safety advice such as electrical and kitchen safety, as well as offering guidance on night time routines and a fire action plan. This will include how to summon the Fire Service and how to escape the property should a fire occur. Smoke alarms are also provided and fitted, at no cost to the occupier, if it is deemed necessary.  

*** During the COVID-19 outbreak home visits are limited to those people most at risk in their community.  We are able to provide telephone advice and guidance to less vulnerable people during this period ***

Essex County Fire & Rescue Service
Safe and Well Visits

Our trained Safe and Well Officers can provide advice and guidance in relation to fire prevention and home security, as well as signpost you to additional advice and support if you need it.  To keep yourself and your family safe at home, we recommend booking one of our free, personalised Safe and Well Visits. 

*** During the COVID-19 outbreak home visits are limited to those people most at risk in their community.  We are able to provide telephone advice and guidance to less vulnerable people during this period ***

Essex FCN - The Farming Community Network
FCN Essex

The Farming Community Network (FCN) is a voluntary organisation and charity that supports farmers and families within the farming community through difficult times.

Since 1995, we have helped thousands of people deal with a variety of issues, including financial difficulties, animal disease, mental health and family disputes. Our volunteers will "walk with" you and help you find a positive way through your problems - for as long as it is needed.

Essex Home Help Service Ltd
Essex Home Help Service

Essex Home Help Service offers support within the home to the Elderly & Vulnerable people in Essex. Services include Housework, Shopping, Prescription Collections, Companionship and Sitting Service. All other requirements considered.Having worked for Age UK Essex Home Help Service for the past 17 years we understand how important it is for older and vulnerable people to be able to stay in their own homes to live an enjoyable and independent life.

Essex Restorative Justice Hub
Essex Restorative and Mediation Service

The Essex Restorative and Mediation Service works with people who have been involved in conflict, including criminal offences and anti-social behaviour. Restorative processes use communication between people who have been harmed, and have caused harm, to allow them to work towards positive outcomes in a safe environment.

Essex Safeguarding Adults Board
Social Care Direct Helpline

You can call us for anything from straightforward information and advice about the abuse and the safety of adults in Essex; to the disclosure of a specific concern about your own safety of somebody that you know. Should you wish to report maltreatment of an adult in Essex we will take your concern seriously and ensure that it is investigated appropriately.

Help us to keep adults safe across Essex. Remember, ignoring abuse is not an option - Any person with knowledge of, or suspicion that a vulnerable adult may be at risk of abuse or is being abused must report their concerns.

Call the Social Care Direct line on 0345 6037630

Essex Youth Service Young Carers Team
Essex Young Carers Service

Young carers are children and young people under 18 years old who provide regular and on-going care to another person who is physically or mentally ill, disabled or misuses substances. Young adult carers are aged between 16 and 24, and can also access support from this service. We offer free personalised support to young carers and their families that will be developed with you around your need for help and the caring you do. Referrals into the service can be made via the website detailed below.

Families in Focus

Families in Focus aim to support children and young people with disabilities (aged 0-19) and their families by providing them with a range of services in West Essex. We provide helplines and advice to guide and support you as much as we can. Educational, DLA (Disability Living Allowance) Applications, and Social/Respite opportunities are included.

families4recovery

Families4recovery is a friendly, local self-help support group for anyone who is affected by someone else’s alcohol or drug use. Respect for confidentiality is a priority. We try to remain positive, listening, empathetic and looking at what we can do to support change and take care of ourselves. There is no charge.

Family Lives
Essex Family Wellbeing Support

We are excited to announce a new project in Essex called Essex Family Wellbeing Support targeting lone parents and parents of children with SEN, affected by the impact of Covid-19.  Online parenting groups via Teams and individual support by phone or Teams will provide emotional support and parenting strategies to boost parents' confidence, skills and coping mechanisms in supporting their family.

Please forward this onto relevant families and contacts you know/work with who may benefit from accessing this service. 

Family Solutions
Children and Families Hub

Family Solutions is a team within Essex County Council that provides a variety of support for families who are experiencing difficulties.  Family Solutions approach is to work alongside families on issues that they want to change, so the work undertaken varies from family to family.  We often support with issues such as family dynamics, parenting and the impact on families of things such as domestic abuse, mental health difficulties and substance misuse.  Most work is carried out in the community, often in family homes.  Family Solutions also runs several group work programmes.

The duration of the work undertaken varies according to need.  The average current length of work is 5 months.  Family Solutions’ work with a family never exceeds a year.

Freshwaters Christian Fellowship

*** DUE TO LOCKDOWN RESTRICTIONS THE CENTRE IS UNABLE TO OPEN AT THE MOMENT ***

We are a Christian church that seeks to encourage Health and Wellbeing through our meetings, events and activities. This includes meetings for those wanting to explore the Christian faith; a group we run for senior's in partnership with Rainbow Services; group walks; & general support and encouragement

Freshwaters Contact Centre
Child Contact Centre

*** DUE TO LOCKDOWN RESTRICTIONS THE CENTRE IS UNABLE TO OPEN AT THE MOMENT ***

We provide a safe neutral meeting place where children can meet with parents, grandparents or siblings that they have been separated from because of family breakdown.

Frontline
Advocacy Factsheet Harlow

This fact sheet gives details of advocacy services. An advocate is someone who can speak on your behalf or who can support you to speak for yourself, especially in formal situations or when you don't feel very confident.

Advocacy doesn't always have to be provided by paid professionals. Often people take a friend or family member with them to important meetings to give moral support, and to speak for them if required.

Advocacy services give priority to the most vulnerable people, or those with the most complex issues who have no other appropriate form of support. If an advocacy service is unable to help, they may suggest other local organisations who can provide assistance.

Frontline
Befriending Factsheet Harlow

This fact sheet gives details of local and national befriending services.  These services provide conversation and companionship in order to reduce isolation and loneliness.  Some services may also offer specific support to people managing long term illness or disability.

Frontline
Bereavement Factsheet Harlow

The death of someone we love can be one of the most difficult experiences of life.  Grief is a normal human response to a significant loss.  Grief is very personal and also unpredictable.  You may experience a wide variety of emotions and reactions you have never faced before.  This can be a painful and complicated process, sometimes medical advice or counselling can help.

Find local and national support services which include support for children, as well as those who have experienced the sudden death of a loved one.  These services are for anyone who has been bereaved of someone at any time.

Frontline
Complaints Factsheet Harlow

This fact sheet gives details of how to make a complaint about a health or social care provider; for example if you are unhappy about the care you have received from a doctor, dentist, optician, pharmacy, social care service, hospital or care home.

Frontline
Discrimination (Harlow) Factsheet

This factsheet provides information about different types of discrimination and how to take action if you feel you have been discriminated against. 

Factsheet created 16/6/20.

Frontline
Going Home from Hospital Factsheet Harlow

This leaflet gives information about the discharge process from Princess Alexandra Hospital as well as information on organisations and services available locally that can help you once you return home.

Frontline
Hate Crime (Harlow) Factsheet

This factsheet provides information about hate crime, what it is and how to report it if you, or someone you know, has been a victim.

Factsheet created 16/6/20.

Frontline
Keeping Warm Factsheet Harlow

This factsheet gives information on local services and national schemes which can help you stay warm and well in winter, together with ways to be more energy efficient and save money on your bills.

The information includes obtaining fuel benefits, keeping well and avoiding falls, reducing bills and improving energy efficiency, home improvements for a warmer home, accessing the Careline community alarm and what to do in an emergency.

Frontline
Planning Ahead Factsheet Harlow

This factsheet gives your information about planning for later life.  This can be difficult but can help you stay in control of the way you are cared for and ensure that your dependents are provided for after your death. 

Frontline
Redundancy Factsheet Harlow

This factsheet provides lots of information on your options if you have been made, or are likely to be made, redundant.  Sections include; help in getting a new job (including CV writing, interview tips etc), redundancy pay and entitlements, claiming benefits, help in paying your rent or mortgage, advice about debts, making a career change, and ongoing support.  

Frontline
Travelling Options in Harlow

This fact sheet gives information on transport options in Harlow, including non emergency transport to hospital and medical appointments. It also provides information on the help available to pay for travel to medical appointments. 

Frontline
Victims of Crime Factsheet Harlow

This fact sheet gives the details of national services that offer support for victims of different types of crimes. This may be one-to-one support with drop-in sessions, counselling, therapy, or community orientated organisations that provide practical help.

GEMS

Support group for widows and widowers who meet for a drink and a chat at the Fairways Sports & Social Club (CM19 4RT), every first and third Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm. We arrange social events, trips out, walks, dinner dances and other outings.

The group has been meeting since November 2007 and we now have over 60 members. We are a really nice group of people who offer each other support and a listening ear.

Come along, meet new friends and share life experiences. 

Grant A Smile CIC
Grant A Smile

We help to improve the quality of life of parents and families battling chronic illness, by offering a CLEAN and healthy home for FREE! We declutter, do gardening, wish dishes, vacuum etc. We don’t stop there! We do all we can to grant very special wishes to the unsung heroes - their children.

Groundwork East
Green Doctor

Groundwork, the community charity, is running the Green Doctor service for residents of Harlow who live in fuel poverty.

We can help individuals that have any debt or are on a low income and are struggling to pay their utility bills through a number of methods to reduce their utility costs and improve their livelihoods.   Although the service is free there are eligibility criteria.  Click DETAILS for the list of services offered and who is eligible.  Click REFER to make a referral. 

Harefield Church
Cafe+

Café+ (Café Plus) is a twice-monthly coffee room for the over 60’s at Harefield Church on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.

Harefield Church
Jelly Tots

During school terms Jelly Tots caters for children from 0 to 4 years of age when they go off to school. The group provides a relaxed atmosphere in which the children can play safely and the carers can relax together and chat over tea or coffee.

Harlow Advice Centre

Harlow Advice Centre provides specialist benefits, debt and housing advice, plus assisted information on a wide range of related subjects.

The specialist level benefits and debt advice offered includes the full range of assistance from advice to appeals tribunals. This part of the service is aimed at Harlow residents only.

Harlow Advice Centre also holds a legal aid contract covering housing, benefits and debt. Help under this contract is available to people on low income that are entitled to legal aid. We can help a wide range of clients who need this type of assistance - including residents of Harlow, West Essex and beyond. 

Harlow and Epping Forest Breathe Easy

To provide support for patients, carers and their families. To increase awareness and understanding of all forms of lung disease. Staff from the clinical respiratory team also attend the meetings and provide advice and support on any respiratory issues. A place to meet people with similar conditions and gain support.

Harlow Baptist Church
Coffee Club

The Coffee Club offers a chance to socialise and relax with others as you enjoy a tea or coffee.  Everyone welcome.

Harlow Baptist Church
Toffee Toddler Group

Toffee is our "Tots and Coffee" group and offers a place for support, encouragement and social contact for parents and carers with under 5's.  The group is run by volunteers and offers a safe and friendly environment.

Harlow Bereavement Group
Harlow Bereavement Group

Grief is not something we like to think about. After a loss many people struggle to come to terms with the experience. We are, therefore, pleased to offer support through our Harlow Bereavement Group.

Harlow Council
Active Harlow

Harlow Council - Customer Service
DevelopMe Hub

DevelopMe is a digital hub which supports you in getting a job, changing career or further developing your skills and personal development. The hub is packed with interactive tools, e-learning content and the latest job opportunities, all designed to help you navigate today's job market and grow in confidence. You'll get access to our CV Builder as well as Interview Simulator to build your confidence for future interviews. This service is free.

To register go to: https://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/community/developme/

Harlow Council - Customer Service
Harlow Council - Customer Service Team

Contact Harlow are the Customer Service Team at Harlow Council. We are able to advise or signpost on issues including Benefits, Council Tax, Homelessness, General Housing enquiries as well as bin collections and environmental enquiries.

Harlow Council - Pets Corner
Pets Corner

Opened in 1966, Pets' Corner is a small, friendly farm located in Harlow Town Park.

It has a large selection of traditional farm animals, such as rabbits, chickens and ducks, more exotic animals such as reindeer, llamas and alpacas, as well as a number of rare breeds including Red Poll cows, Essex saddleback and Tamworth pigs.

Harlow Council - Supported Housing
Harlow Careline

Harlow Council's Careline (Telecare) service provides peace of mind for vulnerable people living in the Harlow area 24-hours a day, 365 days of the year.

When the Careline alarm system is activated an experienced operator from the call monitoring centre (available 24 hrs. a day 365 days a year?) will answer your call and request the appropriate assistance on your behalf, whether this is to call a member of your family, your GP, the emergency services or simply to offer advice.? If you are in a Supported Housing Scheme this could also be the Supported Housing Officer.

There is a small weekly charge for the Careline service, more information will be given during your no obligation demonstration.

Harlow Council - The Leah Manning Centre
The Leah Manning Centre - Harlow

The Leah Manning Centre provides specialist day care for older people, administered by Harlow Council working in partnership with Essex County Council, Adult Social Care who fund the specialist day care, for Harlow residents with a higher level of need.

Every day at the centre is different, with a variety of stimulating activities and opportunities on offer for older adults with a range of support needs to maximise independence and to gain and maintain skills for everyday living, enabling them to be part of their local community and meet new people.

Harlow Ethnic Minority Umbrella
Advice and Information Service

The Harlow Ethnic Minority Umbrella (HEMU) helps to improve the minority ethnic communities within Harlow.

We are a non-profit voluntary group. We aim to develop education and eradicate poverty and injustice and stand for fairness and understanding.

We are based in Harlow, Essex and we offer advice, support and information for all ethnic minorities. These communities represent a variety of ages and styles within the Harlow community.

HARLOW HOLIDAY LUNCH CLUBS
Harlow Holiday Lunch Clubs

We offer nutritious meals during the holidays for those children in receipt of free school meal vouchers, as well as vulnerable families referred to us.

In addition to food, we also provide craft and play and learn activities, sports and support in the school holidays.

Hope Boxes are also available with food and toiletries.

Harlow Stroke Support Group
Harlow Stroke Support - Rehab Centre

HSSRC offer non-medical rehabilitation, and help and support to Stroke Survivors, and their family and carers.

The charity has been operating in Harlow and surrounding areas for the past 20 years to support people to overcome the barriers faced following a stroke, such as feelings of isolation, loss of confidence and concerns about the future.

Harlowsave Credit Union

We are a not for profit community bank offering accessible banking services, savings accounts and affordable loans for people living or working in Essex or East Hertfordshire. We specialise in helping people in financial difficulty by offering money management advice and affordable loans.

Harlowsave Credit Union
Smart Advice Plus

Would you like help and advice on managing your money? Do you live in Harlow? We offer free and confidential budgeting advice and will help you plan your budget, avoid debt and reach your savings goal. To arrange a one-to-one session with one of our friendly advisors click REFER below or REQUEST CALLBACK.

Headway Essex
Support for Adults with Traumatic and Acquired Brain Injury

We are able to give informed practical advice or facilitate more expert support as required. Support workers provide direct, emotional or practical support and informal counselling. We aim to educate the person and the carer about brain injury. We identify the individual and family needs and facilitating actions through Headway Essex resources or external agencies or professionals to ensure equipped support.

Headway Essex
Headway Essex Support Groups

As a charity, our mission is to ensure that everyone in Essex living with an acquired brain injury can live a fulfilling life and that families and carers are better able to cope within their caring roles.

Many people who have a brain injury find our support group meetings very beneficial. The groups provide you with an opportunity to meet others who have a brain injury, to share information and to hear from experts in brain injury care and rehabilitation.

If you have not attended one of our groups before, you will need to contact the community support team  to pre-register your attendance.

Healthwatch Essex
Healthwatch Essex Information Service

We provide information about health and care services in Essex. We also help people to find out about, access and navigate health and social care services.

Healthy Living Healthy Lives CIC
Chat, Connect, Create

Social get together for adults in the Ongar community.  A time to chat, craft, play board games - make new friends and acquaintances.   

Residents outside Ongar can attend, but must have own transport to location.

NB - due to COVID restrictions we are restricting numbers per session due to space to operate safely.  Therefore it is important that ANY referrals include an email address (person being referred or an agreed contact) so a booking can be made.

Healthy Minds (NHS Psychological Therapies)

Healthy Minds provides access to a wide range of talking therapy treatments for adults with common mental health problems, including: depression, anxiety and long term conditions. Healthy Minds help clients to better understand their emotional difficulties and develop new ways of thinking and coping based on agreed individual goals and needs.

Hearing Help Essex

A quarter of a million people in Essex have some degree of hearing loss, nationally that amounts to one in six of the population. Hearing Help Essex exists to alleviate the isolation and loneliness that hearing loss can bring.

Herts & Essex Community Farm
Harlow, Herts & Essex Community Farm

We are a community farm located in Harlow offering a safe place for all individuals and families seeking to learn how to grow food and create a more sustainable environment. We offer gardening based activities in a pleasant and friendly outdoor surrounding, plus a share of the produce to take home.

Home-Start Essex
Family Group

Our family group is available to support families who want to meet other parents, build connections and gain peer support from others. With professionally trained staff and volunteers on hand, parents are offered a safe space to have some fun with their children and share their experiences with other parents.

Home-Start Essex
Harlow Perinatal Volunteer Support

Pregnancy is an incredible journey, but it can be challenging and pretty lonely and these feelings have been amplified under lock-down. As part of our perinatal support we will introduce you to a volunteer trained in perinatal mental health, and agree on a goal plan that can be worked on together so you have full ownership of the support journey. Our volunteer will provide weekly phone/video calls or can meet 1:1 for up to 6 months

Home-Start Essex
Harlow Perinatal Wellbeing Group

Home-Start Essex are running perinatal groups for Harlow mums in Spring 2021 and welcome pregnant and new mums. These helpful groups are designed to offer emotional support to mums expecting a baby and those who have a baby under 1 years old. The groups are running online and include 6 weeks of topics all aimed to support mum through the perinatal period and offer her reassurance that she’s not alone. Groups are kept in small numbers to ensure they’re inclusive and welcoming.

This course will start on 29th April 2021 and run for six weeks.

Home-Start Essex
Home-Visiting and Telephone Befriending Service For Families

Free, confidential family support service for families with a range of issues such as loneliness and isolation; mothers with postnatal depression; one parents or parents experiencing relationship problems; families struggling with the emotional and physical demands of having twins, multiple births or several pre-school children; a family overwhelmed by the death of a loved one; families where there are special needs, disabilities or an ill child.

Home-Start Essex
Parenting Together Support Programme

The Parenting Together Support Programme may be able to help parents where stress and conflict are affecting the family by offering parents support either through 1-2-1 sessions via Zoom or telephone.  The programme offers parents support that suits their circumstances to work towards strengthening their parenting skills for the benefit of the children and address conflict within their relationship.

Home-Start Essex
Warm and Safe

Information, guidance and support packs for families with children aged 0-5; A follow up call with the family regarding further support that can be offered or is needed; Groups will be held to build peer networks of support, help reduce isolation and improve mental health and well-being; A telephone support line and telephone befriender support

Hub and Spoke Harlow CIC
Hub and Spoke Harlow

Support to start or return to cycling. Learn to ride. Develop confidence on the road. Join a social ride. Rent a bike (fee). Buy a recycled bike

Integration Support Services
Falcon English School

Falcon English School is a not-for-profit language school run by Integration Support Services, a charity based in Harlow.

Our popular ESOL courses are designed for students of all levels. We currently run Pre-Entry (Step 1 & 2), Entry 1, Entry 2, Entry 3 and Level 1 classes.

Integration Support Services

We provide one-to-one support advice and guidance to migrant families in the West of Essex. The aim of our work is to help families to integrate successfully in the local community, reduce isolation and improve opportunities for better employment/education. We can provide immigration advice at OISC level 1, interpreting and translation.

We are also a hate crime support centre.

Integration Support Services
Women's Social Group

The Women's Social Group gives women of different cultures an opportunity to meet, practise their English, learn about other cultures and make new friends. Women can share their experiences in a safe environment while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee. We meet every Thursday, from 12.30 to 2 pm.

Integrity Housing

We provide short-long term accommodation in shared housing with support, personalised pathway planning, and move-on into independent living.

Jobcentre Plus

COVID19 ARRANGEMENTS:  Jobcentres are currently temporarily closed for face to face support but are offering virtual support by telephone, email and journal.

For Essex-tailored employment support please email:  TalkTo.Paul@dwp.gov.uk.

Further information can be found on:

https://jobhelp.dwp.gov.uk/  AND  https://employerhelp.dwp.gov.uk

https://www.gov.uk/browse/benefits  AND  https://www.gov.uk/browse/working/finding-job

Kids Inspire
Family Innovation Fund Early Help Coaching and Mentoring

The Family Innovation Fund Early Help Services are for Children, Young People and Parents/Carers with low level needs that cannot be supported by services such as Schools, and GPs alone.  FIF provides that little bit of early help to support children, young people and parents/carers to;

• have healthy inter-parental & family relationships
• be emotionally healthy, happy and resilient
• make behaviour choices that promote safety and wellbeing
• be socially connected and resourceful

Kids Inspire
Healing Connections

A specialist service aimed at young people at risk of being drawn into violence or crime.

A new therapeutic service for 10-14 year olds based in Essex has been funded by the Youth Endowment Fund and is ready for referral now.  Children’s mental health charity Kids Inspire is offering referred* young people (and by approach, their parents/ carers too) 20 to 30 weekly one hour sessions online.  It will offer space to understand and explore what lies beneath behaviours that can lead to crime and violence.

*We anticipate that referrals into this service will come from Essex Police, GPs and Schools.  These organisations can refer directly into our service via the REFER button below.  Alternatively, click on DETAILS below.

Kids Inspire
Talk Together

A child, young person, adult or keyworker can access our mental health service to meet with a qualified psychotherapist/ counsellor online . They will be given a space to discuss how they are feeling, how they are managing family dynamics or loneliness.

Useful wellbeing resources or activities, mindfulness, creative work will be explored – whatever is determined from the initial sessions to help.

Lambourne End Centre for Outdoor Learning
Food for Thought

A health and wellbeing project, engaging people in meaningful activities, learning new skills, keeping fit and developing confidence in calming surroundings. Individuals work on the land planting, nurturing and harvesting fruit & veg. This improves their self-esteem, mental and physical well-being and self-worth, ultimately assisting with their integration into society.

Leonard Cheshire Digital Inclusion
Tech Works

Supporting disabled people to access digital technology. Leonard Cheshire’s Tech Works programme supports disabled people, and those working with disabled people, to access the digital world; providing training and support together with the latest in accessible technology.  Clients must be 18+ years old, have a disability or long term health condition, and be actively looking to engage in learning/qualifications, volunteering, and/or employment.

METRO
HIV Peer Support Group Essex

Our peer support groups provide a chance to come together with others living with HIV.

Why people use this service:

• I'm living with or affected by HIV
• I'm struggling to come to terms with my diagnosis
• I want to meet other people affected by HIV

Michael Roberts Charitable Trust
Harlow Foodbank

Emergency food for people in crisis in Harlow and the surrounding area. If you are in need of help then contact your nearest Citizens Advice Bureau and take along any evidence of need. They should then be able to provide you with a food voucher.

Michael Roberts Charitable Trust
Maybury Open Door

Maybury Open Door is based in Harlow and is managed by a team of MRCT Community Workers and volunteers.  It is a community drop-in resource which welcomes adults from 18+ years to promote community spirit and integration.

Maybury Open Door is open to all and supports a wide range of adults including elderly, people with a disability, homeless, isolated people and others who just need to venture out and meet new friends.  The centre seeks to promote the ability of people, and to encourage them to take an active role.

Mind in West Essex
Bereavement Support

Leading up to and following the death of someone close to you, it is usual to struggle with a range of emotional and practical difficulties.

We understand that everyone’s experience of loss will be different and therefore we have a range of support opportunities available.  We aim to offer flexible, personalised and cost effective support for people experiencing these difficulties.

We offer: counselling, befriending, education about the physical and emotional effects of loss, coping with loss and change course, group work, practical support, reading materials.

Mind in West Essex
Fee Paying Counselling

Our counselling service provides you with the opportunity to explore worries, concerns or mental health difficulties that you may be experiencing. It can enable you to use your own insights and resources to work towards resolving the issues you face. The Mind in West Essex counselling service complements services provided by NHS.