Living with complex health needs — or supporting someone who does — can place significant demands on physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. Across the South West, a wide range of free health and wellbeing services are available to support individuals, families and care staff. However, many people are unaware of what support exists or how to access it.
This guide highlights free and accessible services available across Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Somerset, Taunton, Yeovil, Chard and surrounding areas, helping signpost people to support within their local communities.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing support
Free, confidential mental health support is available through NHS-commissioned services and local charities. Many services allow self-referral, meaning you do not need to speak to your GP first.
Services available locally include:
NHS Talking Therapies
Bristol, North Somerset & South Gloucestershire:
https://bnssghealthiertogether.org.uk/mental-health/services/Somerset NHS Talking Therapies:
https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/our-services/talking-therapies/
Vita Health Group
NHS Talking Therapies provider across parts of the South West:
https://www.vitahealthgroup.co.ukMind
Bristol Mind: https://bristolmind.org.uk
Somerset Mind: https://www.somersetmind.org.uk
Samaritans
Bristol branch: https://www.samaritans.org/branches/bristol
Somerset branch: https://www.samaritans.org/branches/taunton-somerset
Wellbeing courses, workshops and learning
Wellbeing and recovery colleges across the South West provide free courses and workshops designed to help people build confidence, resilience and coping skills.
Examples include:
Bristol Wellbeing College
https://www.second-step.co.uk/what-we-do/wellbeing-colleges/bristol-wellbeing-collegeSomerset Recovery College
https://www.somersetrecoverycollege.org.ukSecond Step
Community wellbeing and mental health support across Bristol and Somerset:
https://www.second-step.co.uk
Loneliness, social connection and community support
Social isolation can have a significant impact on wellbeing, particularly for people with long-term health conditions or reduced mobility.
Local support options include:
Age UK
Age UK Bristol: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/bristol
Age UK Somerset: https://www.ageuksomerset.org.uk
Well Aware
Local community directory for Bristol, South Gloucestershire and B&NES:
https://www.wellaware.org.ukSocial prescribing via GP surgeries
Information available via NHS:
https://www.england.nhs.uk/personalisedcare/social-prescribing/
Physical health, movement and gentle activity
Free and low-cost movement opportunities are available across the region, with many programmes designed to be inclusive and adaptable.
Examples include:
RED January
https://redtogether.co.ukBristol City Council – Active Living programmes
https://www.bristol.gov.uk/residents/sports-and-leisureSomerset Activity and Health programmes
https://www.somerset.gov.uk/health-and-wellbeing
Local community walking groups and gentle exercise sessions are often listed through councils, wellbeing hubs and GP social prescribers.
Practical advice, benefits and financial support
Practical concerns such as finances, benefits and housing can significantly affect wellbeing. Free advice services are available across the South West.
Key services include:
Citizens Advice
Bristol: https://www.bristolcab.org.uk
WECIL (West of England Centre for Inclusive Living)
Disability advice, independent living and direct payment support:
https://www.wecil.org.ukLocal council welfare rights services
Bristol City Council: https://www.bristol.gov.uk
Somerset Council: https://www.somerset.gov.uk
Support for health and social care staff
Free wellbeing and mental health support is also available for people working in health and social care roles.
Support options include:
NHS Talking Therapies (open to social care staff):
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-nhs-talking-therapies-serviceVita Health Group – Staff wellbeing support
https://www.vitahealthgroup.co.ukLocal wellbeing workshops and stress management courses
Often listed through local wellbeing colleges and council services.
Our role at Synergy Complex Care
At Synergy Complex Care, we believe high-quality care includes helping people access the right support beyond direct care delivery. We are committed to signposting clients, families and staff to appropriate local support wherever possible.
Availability and eligibility may vary by location, and we encourage individuals to contact services directly for the most up-to-date information.
If you would like guidance on local support services or want to discuss how we support wellbeing alongside complex care, please contact our team.