A Helping Hand this Christmas

The festive season isn’t always joyful for everyone – it can be a challenging time for many.

Whether you’re feeling lonely, isolated, or dealing with physical or mental health struggles, Christmas can sometimes feel more difficult than merry.

That’s why we’re here to share some helpful ideas, practical tips, and support for anyone who might be finding this time of year tough – or for those concerned about friends, family, or neighbours who might need a little extra care.

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Make time to check-in

If you have a frail or elderly neighbour, why not check in on them? Winter weather can make it harder—and more dangerous – for people with limited mobility to leave the house. Simply making sure they have the supplies and medication they need could make a big difference.

It’s also a great chance to check they’re keeping safe and warm at home, and to remind them you care.

If you’re worried about someone and think they might need extra help, you can reach out to Age UK for professional support.

Start a Conversation

It’s a common myth that more people die by suicide at Christmas, but that doesn’t mean we should ignore the issue.

Suicide impacts men disproportionately – 3 out of every 4 cases. It’s also the leading cause of death for men aged 20 to 34.

Building strong social connections can make a big difference. Starting a conversation might feel daunting, but it could save a life.

If you’re unsure where to start, the Movember website offers fantastic resources to help you recognise the signs and practice having those important, sometimes difficult, conversations.

Wellbeing Hubs

This Winter, there are 80 Wellbeing Hubs across Newcastle.

Many offer free hot and cold drinks, access to Wi-Fi, and computer use. Others may also offer hot food, baby changing facilities, indoor spaces and activities, and hygiene or period poverty packs.

All offer a warm, welcoming and safe place for anyone who needs help, support or advice.

Visit the Public Health Newcastle website, where you can use the map, or filter by opening dates, postcode and facilities.

Festive Events and Activities

We’ve included an interactive widget below from InformationNOW to help you find local events, activities, and services near you.

Whether you’re looking for a community meal, a support group, or just a friendly space to connect with others, you’ll find plenty of options to brighten your festive season.

Take a moment to explore what’s happening near you – because no one should feel alone this Christmas.

The People's Kitchen

Every day, The People's Kitchen serve 250 meals to homeless or vulnerable people in Newcastle.

For some, The People's Kitchen is more than just a place to eat—it's a safe space where they can find companionship and access to vital support services like welfare, medical aid, and housing advice.

On Christmas Day, The People's Kitchen offer friendship, support and a full Christmas Dinner to those who might otherwise go without.

Visit peopleskitchen.co.uk to find out more, or to make a donation to support their important work.

Support and Helplines

Many organisations offer helplines, text support and online help for mental health and other conditions or circumstances where people may need support.

Apps and Online Mental Health Support

Togetherall is a safe online community where people support each other anonymously to improve their mental health.

Visit togetherall.com

Kooth offers counselling and support services for young people aged 11-18 and those in Looked After Care up to 25.

Visit kooth.com

NHS Every Mind Matters has tips and other small things we can all do to be kind to our minds. There is expert advice and practical tips to look after your mental wellbeing.

Visit nhs.uk/every-mind-matters