The festive season can be a tough time for many and particularly for those who have suffered a loss or who are victims of domestic abuse.

Loneliness can feel even worse when everyone around you is full of festive joy and worries about the cost of living can overshadow the Christmas holiday.

That’s why we’re running a campaign in our borough to highlight that there is always help at hand. Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan is available to face it with you. They're ready to listen 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Just call 116 123 or visit the Samaritans website.

Bexley’s Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Health, Cllr Melvin Seymour said:

It’s important that amidst all the Christmas celebrations we think about people we know who might be feeling lonely or worried and try to connect with them. If you are feeling lonely try to talk more openly about this. If you can’t reach out to friends or family and want to talk to someone in confidence, or if you know someone who may need some support, there is lots of help at hand”.

The Oxleas Crisis Line on 0800 330 8590 is a 24-hour telephone service for anyone living in Bexley. If you prefer to speak to someone face to face you can drop-in to the Bexley Crisis Café in Bexleyheath, DA6 8DS. The crisis café is a safe and friendly place for anybody 18 and over who is experiencing severe emotional or psychological distress, where you can access mental health support and advice from professionals. Find out more at Mind in Bexley Crisis Cafe.

Young people can access confidential support via an online mental wellbeing community at Kooth website or at Papyrus website.

Staying active, connecting with friends or family, learning new skills, or offering your time to support others can help keep your mind healthy. The NHS offers general advice at the NHS Every Mind Matters website.

If you’re worried about making ends meet there are several local organisations that can offer financial help and advice. Contact them as soon as possible to seek help and support. Find out what support and advice is available with the cost of living.

It is also a sad fact that cases of domestic abuse increase over the festive season. If you or your family are in immediate danger don’t be afraid to call the police on 999. Otherwise please contact Police on the non-emergency telephone number 101 or visit your local police station to speak with an officer in confidence.

If you are worried about domestic or sexual abuse call Solace on 020 3198 4659 for free and confidential advice and support for women and men in Bexley. Alternatively, you can contact Refuge’s freephone 24-hour National Domestic Abuse helpline 0808 2000 247 or visit the Refuge website.

For more information visit the Bexley Domestic Abuse Services website.