Mental health charities offering counselling and crisis support

By Chris Salmon | Updated: September 27, 2025

In 2022/23, 1.6 million people accessed NHS mental health services in England (Source: NHS Digital)

After a workplace injury, the emotional and psychological impact can be just as serious as the physical harm. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression or trauma, UK mental health charities provide free and confidential counselling and crisis support. These services can complement NHS treatment or fill gaps while waiting for an appointment.

At a glance

Charities offer free or low-cost counselling, helplines and crisis support.
Support is available for both injured workers and their families.
Many services are accessible 24/7 via phone, text or online chat.
Some charities specialise in particular groups such as men, young people or people bereaved by suicide.

Major UK mental health charities

Samaritans: Provides a 24/7 confidential helpline for anyone in emotional distress. Call 116 123 or visit Samaritans.
MIND: Offers counselling, peer support and advice on living with a mental health condition. Learn more at MIND.
Rethink Mental Illness: Provides support groups, advocacy and advice services for people affected by severe mental illness. See Rethink Mental Illness.
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Supports men at risk of suicide with a free helpline and online chat. Visit CALM.
Cruse Bereavement Support: Helps people coping with grief, including after a workplace fatality. More details at Cruse Bereavement Support.

What type of support is available?

Depending on the organisation, services may include:

24-hour helplines for immediate support in crisis situations.
Short-term or ongoing counselling sessions.
Online peer support groups and forums.
Practical advice on benefits, work rights and coping with day-to-day life.

Real-world example

A warehouse worker suffered a serious back injury and was unable to return to work for months. The isolation and financial stress led to depression. By contacting MIND, he was referred to a local counselling service and a peer support group, which helped him manage his recovery and reduce feelings of loneliness.

How to access support

Most charities allow you to self-refer without needing a GP referral. You can:

Call or text a helpline for immediate support.
Use online chat services if you prefer not to speak by phone.
Search for local support groups through charity websites.
Ask your GP to signpost you to charity-run counselling services in your area.

If you are in immediate danger of harming yourself, always call 999 or go to your nearest Accident and Emergency department.

External references

NHS: Depression - symptoms, treatment and when to seek help.
NHS: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - causes, recovery and treatment options.
NHS: Generalised anxiety disorder - guidance on diagnosis and therapy support.
Samaritans - 24/7 confidential support for anyone in emotional distress or crisis.

About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

More about Chris and WAAC

Last reviewed September 2025 by Chris Salmon

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