What to do in a crisis

This time of year can present challenges, both financially and emotionally. Just remember you are not alone.

Ahead of the Christmas and New Year period, we have pulled together a quick guide to help you through so you always have somewhere to turn.

Out-of-Hours medical help

If the person you care for is taken ill, there are a range of different options open to you depending on what is wrong with them and how serious their condition is.

• If someone’s life is at risk, they are seriously injured, suicidal or have seriously harmed themselves then call 999.
• If you think that the person you care for is safe but still needs some urgent medical help or you are just not sure what to do next, then you can contact NHS 111. You can do that either by calling 111 or by using their online service at111.nhs.uk. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year.
• If the person you care for is experiencing a mental health crisis you can receive help from the NHS Mental Health Crisis Resolution Team. Call: 0303 123 1146. This service is usually available throughout Christmas, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and you can self-refer.

Emergency food and utilities support

Unfortunately, many Foodbanks are closed during the Christmas week, so it is important to contact them before Christmas as they often provide extra groceries to cover the week.

• If you are experiencing a crisis or have no food, you need to contact North Tyneside Council Welfare Team at 0191 643 2777 and select option 2. For Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, weekends and Out of Hours ring 03303337475 and you will be supported by the Council’s Out of Hours Team.
• Food banks are community organisations that can help if you are in need. You usually need a referral from the Council, Citizens Advice, your GP, housing association or social worker.

For details of local food banks or organisations that can help – click here for North Tyneside Council’s list of help.

Mental health support

If the person you care for is having a mental health crisis, it can be upsetting. Try and stay as calm as you can as this may help to diffuse the situation. There is support available if you need it.

• If it is an emergency (the person’s life is at risk, they are suicidal or may be at risk of seriously harming themselves or others) call 999.
• If they are safe but need urgent support, contact the NHS Mental Health Crisis Resolution Team. This North Tyneside service is usually available throughout Christmas, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and you can self-refer. They provide assessment and home treatment for people experiencing a mental health crisis as an alternative to hospital admission. However, they are not an ’emergency’ service such as a 999 response.  Call: 0800 652 2861 or 0303 123 1146.
• Alternative sources of support are NHS 111 or the GP surgery for an emergency appointment.
• If you have concerns for someone’s mental health, you could encourage them to call the Samaritans on 116 123. The Samaritans are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and their service is free.
• You can also text SHOUT to 85258 – which is a free, confidential and 24/7 text messaging service for anyone in the UK who needs support.

Remember, you are not alone. Whether its accessing food, emergency help, or emotional support, these services are here to help you navigate the tough times and continue providing the valuable care you give every day.

For more details on where to go for support, visit: https://www.northtynesidecarers.org.uk/christmas-support-guide-2024/