Make a referral

FTB has currently placed a temporary hold on accepting self-referrals while we review whether this referral method is the most effective route for Children and Young People to receive the right type of support in the quickest manner.

Please don’t worry, we are here to help and there are many other ways you can access this support which we have listed below.

It is important that you speak to someone about any mental health concerns you have about yourself, your child or others so please read the advice below as an initial guide for accessing support. 

Risk to self or others. If you cannot keep yourself safe or cannot keep your child safe, please seek attention immediately from;

• Your local NHS Walk-in Centre
• Your General Practitioner
• MIND - 0121 262 3555
• FTB urgent care line - 0300 300 0099 - select the urgent care option

You can also access SHOUT. This is a 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. It’s a place to go if you’re struggling to cope and you need immediate help. Text 85258.

If you are worried or worried about someone about any of the following issues, please see your General Practitioner as a matter of urgency or attend your local Walk-in Centre for help and advice;

• Eating habits (not eating enough food or making yourself vomit)
• Experiencing disturbing thoughts that are affecting relationships with people or preventing normal activities
• Hearing voices or having hallucinations (seeing things)

If you have any other mental health concerns and need to talk to someone about this, then please attend PAUSE drop-in sessions. You can also self-refer the following services:

Kooth - a free online service offering emotional and mental health support for children and young people.

The Mix - a UK-based charity that provides free, confidential support for young people under 25 via online, social and mobile.

The Waiting Room – provides an alternative approach to taking control of your mental health

HOPELINE UK - Children and Young People under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide

Samaritans – free and confidential line 24/7

If you want to access counselling/therapy, please make contact with the Living Well Consortium or Kooth for online psychological support.

Please see our self-care guide for advice on coping and improving your mental health.

• Take time-out- practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, read or learn relaxation techniques
• Stepping back from the problem helps clear your head, count to 10 before reacting to a situation
• Eat well-balanced meals and do not skip any meals
• Do keep healthy, energy-boosting snacks on hand
• Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks
• Get enough sleep - when stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest. Look at sleep hygiene tips
• Exercise daily to help you feel good and maintain your health
• Take deep breaths. Inhale and exhale slowly - count to 10 slowly. Repeat, and count to 20 if necessary. Look at the square breathing technique
• Make use of apps such as Calm, Headspace, and Mindshift