Self Care Directory
The Social Prescribing (Self-Care) directory has been created to improve links between health professionals and the voluntary and community sector. If you are an organisation or service provider and would like to be listed in the Self-Care directory please contact health@kcsc.org.uk.
Attend ABI is a service designed to support adults who have an acquired and non-progressive brain injury. It aims to support individuals and their carers to build confidence particularly through the development of new experiences and networks. The service is aimed at clients who have substantially completed their medical rehabilitation but who do not feel ready, or need additional support, to engage meaningfully with their local community.
Various activities on offer at several centres across the borough including Tai Chi, Badminton, Cycling, Walking, Yoga, Boxing and lots more.
We offer a variety of opportunities for adults over eighteen years old to take part in sport and physical activity, including health walks, yoga, line dancing, and zumba classes.
If you are worried about your health and want to learn how to manage your weight or get fit, one of our special programmes could help
Over 380 weekly activities for those over 50 across 70 venues including several Open Age centres open throughout the day . Creative and performing arts , IT , physical activities , dance , social groups , trips and much much more . Also facilitated groups over the phone for those who cannot get out.
The centre offers a variety of physical fitness programmes, computing, pottery, recovery groups, a safe space (drop in), subsidised lunches, walking group, a badminton & table tennis group, gardening and a women's group.
Opening hours
Office - Monday to Friday: 9am-5pm.
Drop in hours: Monday 10am - 1pm; Tuesday 10am - 1pm; Wednesday 1pm - 4pm; Thursday 1pm - 4pm; Friday 10am - 1pm
If you need advice or information about anything related to your caring role, do come along to any of the 2 drop-ins and speak to one of our specialist Information, Advice & Guidance workers, who will be happy to help. Please telephone for details.
Information on Attendance Allowance; Pension Credit; free TV Licence; benefits for carers etc. provided by an Advice Team
Free, independent and confidential IMHA (Independent Mental Health Advocacy) and Mental Health Advocacy to people with dementia in hospital and in the community.
What is befriending?
Our Befriending volunteers help to combat loneliness and isolation by making regular visits to older people in their homes, providing companionship and a listening ear.
Who is the service for?
This service is open to residents of Kensington & Chelsea who are aged 55 and over. If you find it difficult to get out and about, and are on your own for long periods of time, a volunteer befriender could be right for you.
Lunch Club
St Cuthbert's Centre, Earl's Court. Tuesdays, 12:15-3pm Cost £2.50
Lunch Club & Bingo
Ormrod Court, North Kensington. Second Tuesday of the month Lunch 12.33-2pm. Bingo 2-4pm Cost: Lunch £4
Lunch: £4. Bingo: 5 games for £1
Afternoon Tea & Bingo
Mary Smith Court, Earl's Court. First Friday of the month. 2.30-4pm Bingo: £5 games for £1
Brunch Club
Mona Lisa Cafe, 417 King's Road. Last Friday of the month. 11-1.30pm. £8 (breakfast & 1 drink)
Our walking group meets on Fridays at 10:30am and visits a different park each week. Booking is essential so we can let you know if anything changes.
Individuals are matched with a volunteer befriender who visits once a week for a minimum of six months. A befriender can visit in the person's own home or provide the support needed to venture out. Octavia support can also signpost you to other activities run in their centres.
The Al Hasaniya Lunch Club is held for Arabic-speaking women over the age of 55. Open: Friday, 1pm-4pm. Venue: Bays 4-5 Trellick Tower, Golborne Road, W10 5PL
AMICI Dance Theatre Company is a unique dance theatre company integrating able-bodied & disabled artists and performers.
Six-week arts projects for people with dementia and their carers delivered in a community setting, such as Music for Thought with student musicians from Royal Academy of Music, and Opera for Thought with Opera Holland Park. All include workshops with professionals and group visits to concerts or performances.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW**
ASSIST provides free support, advice and social groups for adults with, or seeking, a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome and pre and post diagnostic information and advice service for adults who do not meet their local FACS (Fair Access to Care Services) eligibility criteria for further support. ASSIST runs a weekly social group and a monthly outings group.
ASSIST run weekly social groups and monthly outings for adults with, or seeking, a diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome.
Our At Home Service offers a range of personally tailored packages of care and support to help people stay as independent as possible in their own homes. We can help with:
- Personal care
- Basic foot care and finger nail cutting
- Hair dressing and shaving
- Meal preparation
- Light housework
- Shopping
- Respite care
- General support
Age UK Kensington & Chelsea is a Living Wage employer.
The support provided is mainly companionship support, assistance accessing public transport and activities in the community such as shopping or groups.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW**
The service matches trained volunteers with people who are living with a progressive, life-limiting illness/elderly and frail to tackle isolation through social and practical support at home. The service also provides a valuable short break for carers.
Some people find it helpful to talk to others who are also bereaved. Cruse support groups are co-facilitated by two bereavement volunteers and the group focuses on supporting one another in confidential, weekly group sessions of 90 minutes each for six weeks. We run several groups a year and if you would like to join one, please email kchf@cruse.org.uk giving us your details and availability.
This new family befriending programme will focus on helping the parents of our children heal, build friendships and develop confidence to enable them to pursue their life goals through 1-2 hour weekly befriending sessions, often using activities such as yoga, art gallery or volunteering as a platform.
This program aims at preventing isolation of older and vulnerable residents in RBKC by creating a supportive and empowering network of Bilingual volunteer befrienders, who shares the same culture and language of the individuals they support.
Bolder not Older is a free dance programme for older adults aged 65+ in sheltered accommodation, care homes and health and wellbeing centres. Bolder not Older responds to the need to tackle loneliness, social and economic isolation and improve health and wellbeing of older people 65+ in West London. Our classes improve mobility, posture, balance and coordination and are for seated and standing participants
If you have large items for disposal which are too big for the bin, you can either book a reuse collection or if they aren't suitable for reuse, book a normal bulky waste collection. If your item is unsuitable for reuse the Council will collect up to ten bulky items for £31.10 payable upon booking the collection (the service is free of charge if you are receiving housing and/or council tax benefit, we will need your NI number when booking). The Council will collect most furniture and household items, such as TVs, stereos, washing machines, sofas, tables, chairs, mattresses, cabinets etc. We will NOT collect: garden waste, car parts, paint, hazardous waste, or builder's waste (any waste generated as a result of works undertaken by a tradesman or DIY). We can only collect from residential properties in the Royal Borough. If you are elderly, disabled or there are other special circumstances which prevent you from moving the items yourself to the collection point, please telephone Streetline on 020 7361 3001 before proceeding.
We provide a bulky waste collection service for £25 for up to 5 items. Each additional item is £5 per item. We aim to complete your collection within 10 working days. If you get housing or council tax benefit, the service is free. However, qualifying residents are limited to 1 concession collection of up to 5 items every 90 days. Items we collect; fridges,cookers,beds - including mattresses and bed frames,sofas,tables,wardrobes,washing machines and other large electrical items and furniture.
The Campden Charities is a grant giving trust. We give grants for the benefit of the residents of Kensington. All of our grants are intended to relieve financial hardship.To be eligible for our support individuals must be a British or European citizen or have indefinite leave to remain, be living in rented accommodation and not a home owner, be in receipt of benefits, including housing benefit, or in low paid work and have been continuously residing in Kensington for at least 2 years
Carer assessments / Case work and advocacy / Signposting / Emotional support / Social activities / Carer training / Information and health events / Drop in advice sessions / Peer support groups / Carer-led forum
Information, advice and support for unpaid carers – people looking after someone who cannot manage on their own. Advice on: benefits and grants for carers and people they look after; community care assessments and how to get support from the Council; carer personal budgets; local services available for carers; how to get support for the person with care needs.
Where: Portland Road Practice, 16 Portland Road, W11 4LA. When: Every other Tuesday, 8am – 12pm*
Where: Redcliffe Surgery, 10 Redcliffe Street, SW10 9DT When: Every other Tuesday, 2pm – 4pm*
*The Portland Road Practice and Redcliffe Surgery drop-ins rotate.
Please visit the events and support group calendar here or call office on 020 8960 3033 for more details.
Quarterly events combining relaxation, discussion and information sharing music and peer support to older people who are caring for a partner or adult, and who need a break from caring responsibilities to maintain their level of activity and support to a vulnerable relative or partner.
Carers Network offer lots of support for Carers. Please contact for up to date information and availability
Around 300 activities are provided each week for older people including creative and performing arts, IT and computer, physical activity and sport, languages and cultural activities in our community activity centres / hubs for older people. Hubs include Second Half centre in St Charles Kensington, New Horizons in Chelsea, Queens Park / Harrow Road hub based in Beethoven Centre and Westbourne ward Hub based in Paddington Arts, as well as numerous community venues
For free advice and information regarding our services and accessing mainstream healthcare, drop in any time we're open - 9am to 5pm Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays. We're on the ground floor of the NHS walk-in Centre - the entrance is on Frith Street but our address is 29-30 Soho Square, London, W1D 3QS.
Door to door volunteer operated car service provided for residents of K&C and Westminster who cannot access public transport easily due to mobility or health related issues. Whilst the service is heavily subsidised, users still have to pay a mileage-related contribution.
The Community Champions programme builds on the skills and knowledge of local communities. We bring local people and services together to improve health and wellbeing and to reduce inequalities.
Community Living Well is a new service for people aged 16 and over who need support with their mental health.
It’s for people registered with a GP in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, or the Queen’s Park and Paddington areas of Westminster.
Community Living Well offers a different kind of mental health support. It makes it easy for you, and anyone who cares for you, to access a wide range of clinical and wellbeing services.
The services on offer include talking therapies, support groups and help with employment or housing issues
Are you having problems using your mobile phone, laptop, tablet or digital camera? Come to our digital clinic and we can help.
In addition, we have knowledgeable volunteers who can also provide one-off technical support and troubleshooting to assist you with installing broadband connections, printers and virus protection.
Help Counselling is based on Portobello Road in central London. We offer one to one individual counselling to a wide range of people over the age of 18.
We can be accessed by anyone residing in the Greater London area.
If you would like to register for an appointment, please call between 10am and 5.30pm on weekdays.
When you refer yourself to Help Counselling, we will take some details, including your name, contact number, and times when you’re available to attend, as well as asking you a few questions about your mental health history.
The more flexible you can be in terms of your availability, the quicker we can usually offer a session. There tends to be a longer wait for evening sessions. Sessions are available Monday to Friday from 10am, with final sessions at 7:30pm (8:30pm on Thursdays). We also have sessions on Saturday from 11am, with final sessions at 2pm.
If your mental health history seems very complex, we will most likely consider it in your best interests to seek counselling with a qualified therapist. If this is the case, we will suggest other services that provide such support.
If you are offered therapy at Help, your first appointment will be an initial assessment. This provides an opportunity to meet with your counsellor and discuss what you are seeking counselling for. If after the initial assessment both you and the counsellor are happy to work together, then you’ll sign an initial contract for 6 sessions. There may be the possibility to extend following a review. Your appointment will take place at the same time, on the same day, each week.
Individual 1-1 counselling for between 6-12 weeks.
Sessions normally start 4-6 weeks after an assessment
Sessions last for 50 minutes. We can offer both daytime and evening appointments. The model of therapy is using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, with a solution based focus where goals are identified and worked towards during the length of the treatment. Using a supportive, trusting environment you will be able to explore with your counsellor and work towards achieving the goals.
SAF is a charity that will strive to improve the well being of the family through therapeutic services. We have various workshops and talks around parenting, stress, building confidence, debt, depression and anger management.
We provide a safe, professional and confidential counselling service to our clients within the framework of the ethical guidelines provided by the BACP.
We offer short and long term counselling sessions (from six weeks to two years) and as a charity our services are offered on an affordability donation basis.
Woman’s Trust is a charity that provides free counselling and therapy for female survivors of domestic violence, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and other forms of domestic abuse.
One to one arts interventions for people with dementia in people's own homes (e.g. art, music, theatre, poetry); may include visits to gallery or concerts.Those referred must have an interest in the arts.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW**
Museum of Brands in Notting Hill organises creative reminiscing sessions for people living with dementia. Our trained guides bring the museum displays to life with the help of common household products, sounds, and scents from the past decades. Reminiscing sessions take place in the Museum on Tuesday mornings before we open to the public. Afterwards, participants are invited to stay and enjoy our cafe and garden. A person with dementia must be accompanied by a carer. For details and booking, visit our website or email alina@museumofbrands.com.
Bikeworks is a not for profit social enterprise based in Bethnal Green, London. Our mission is to change lives using the power of the bicycle. Our three core objectives are: to build a more diverse cycling community; improve mechanical skills; and support businesses to be greener through the promotion of cycling. To deliver this our mission we run a variety of community cycling programmes including an employment programme for disadvantaged groups, an inclusive cycling programme called All Ability, cycle training for the whole community, a bicycle reuse centre, a shop, a corporate teambuilding programme and mobile bicycle maintenance or 'Dr Bike' delivered in both community locations and directly to businesses
Our VIP programme – standing for Very Important People – seeks and engages with those people – whatever age – who may have become socially isolated and lonely for a wide variety of reasons. We bring people into this programme, organising events and activities aimed and encouraging people to engage with each other and the wider community.
Some of the current participants have benefited from free classes such as zumba, yoga, free cycling, walking, and access to social groups such as our Men’s Empowerment Group, and services such as NHS Health Trainers and NHS Health Checks and volunteering opportunities.
Helping vulnerable older people make their homes safer by tactfully helping de-clutter.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW**
Support to people with dementia to manage their condition through activities that help retain memory function, promote health and wellbeing, and assist with advice and guidance on managing their condition. This is normally a long term intervention requiring weekly support.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW** or directly to provider (outside of MCMW)
Support to people with dementia to manage their condition through activities that help retain memory function, promote health and wellbeing, and assist with advice and guidance on managing their condition. This is normally a long term intervention requiring weekly support.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW**
Information and signposting to independent living support services, referrals where necessary and referral to specialist support such as social services needs assessments, advocacy, legal advice and specialist benefits advice.
For survivors of the Grenfell Tower Fire, this includes face-to-face triage support to disabled survivors to identify all support needs and linking clients to the relevant support and services, including emotional support services, and providing ongoing casework as needed.
ADKC is fully accessible with accessible parking outside the entrance. We work in a user-led way and will help people to 'tease out' the different problems they present with and support people to access the services they need. We are aware that people in the local community are traumatized by the fire tragedy and more than ever need a sensitive listening approach to information and advice-giving.
Outside Edge Theatre Company is the UK’s only theatre company focused on addiction. For the past twenty years we have provided free, peer-led drama activities for people in recovery from substance misuse or affected by addiction (e.g., family members, young people at risk of harmful behaviour, etc). No previous experience of theatre or drama is required — everyone is welcome to join in the fun!
We currently offer 4 free, weekly drama workshops that help participants improve their wellbeing and increase social connections: 1) Drop-in Drama, a fun introduction to acting; 2) Write Now, a drop-in creative writing group; 3) Edge Two, a theatre skills course; and 4) The Company, an ensemble of performers who tour productions.
A dedicated service for carers aged 65 and over providing unpaid care to a friend or relative who has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, is over 80 and is frail with co-existing conditions, or is in a residential nursing home. The service provides in-depth practical and emotional support, workshops, access to professional services and end of life carer’s assessment.
Providing advice, support and training to friends, families and professionals caring for people in the later stages of dementia.
Due to mobility issues or a lack of confidence, leaving the house can be a daunting prospect for many older people. Our Escorting volunteers are on hand to help people to get out and about, whether it's on foot, public transport or by taxi
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW** or directly to provider (outside of MCMW)
Supporting older people with mobility problems to get to appointments.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW**
Weekly exercise sessions for those unable to leave their homes to support older people through balance and strength programmes.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW** or directly to provider (outside of MCMW)
Weekly exercise sessions for those unable to leave their homes to support older people through balance and strength programmes
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW**
Our Exercise Referral scheme is a great way for people with long term health conditions to increase physical activity levels and improve health. At Everyone Active we want everyone to enjoy and maintain at least 30 minutes of physical activity, five times a week, as part of a healthy lifestyle.
The Exercise Referral scheme covers a wide range of health conditions including high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, arthritis, overweight or obesity, depression or anxiety, osteoporosis among other conditions, all of which we can help you with.
To get started please speak to your local centre or Health Professional about being referred onto our scheme where you will be able to use a range of facilities with expert guidance and support.
Community Lunch Groups- join a group of older people to eat together and enjoy company. Groups are located across the borough and in a variety of venues, including pubs, cafes and restaurants. The group establishes friendships and peer support as well as helping people to make healthy choices over food and nutrition.
We provide food parcels to individuals or families in need. Most are referred to us by agencies but we try to help everyone who arrives at our door.
Our Friends & Neighbours Project can help you to lead a full and active social life by connecting you with others who have similar hobbies and interests. Whether you want to to meet new people, take a trip or learn a new skill, we offer a huge range of events, activities and clubs to keep you busy. With the help of our dedicated volunteers, more than 250 people are involved in this project.
Who can apply? Older people who are on a low income in private or rented accommodation (not those living in residential care). We provide small grants to older people who are living on low incomes. We have three grant streams currently open which aim to alleviate the stress and worry associated with living on a low income. HOME ESSENTIALS grants help with the cost of replacing every day items in the home (white goods and furnishings), small home repairs and mobility adaptations. DIGITAL CONNECTION grants are to help older people get online and stay connected and can be used towards the cost of equipment such as tablets and smartphones as well as broadband costs. FINANCIAL SUPPORT grants are there to help with unexpected bills and large costs such as utility bills, funeral costs, moving fees etc. Our grants are funded from donations from our generous supporters and funds are limited. We have simple but clear criteria to help make the process as easy as possible. Grant value The average amount we award is £300 and we do not often award grants for more than £500.
Weekly sessions enabling regular exercise, and providing help with transport or getting to the venue. Preventing isolation as well as maintaining physical and mental health
We are able to consider grant requests for the following: White goods, Beds & bedding, Essential household items and other household goods, Clothing, including school uniforms, Baby needs, Travel expenses for hospital visits etc.,Contribution towards equipment and adaptations for people with disabilities where there has been an occupational health therapist recommendation, Vocational materials and training where there is clear evidence of an employment offer, Driving lessons/tests where there is clear evidence of an employment offer, Flooring where there is an exceptional circumstance for people with disabilities, Educational computer equipment/television where there is a permanent or substantial disability/illness.
We cannot consider requests for: loans; debts e.g. catalogues/rent and Council Tax; bursaries; project funding; research; educational grants, bankruptcy & Debt Relief Order Fees, holidays, outings and respite costs; household repairs; rent in advance/deposits; funeral costs /headstones; removal costs: equipment and adaptations that should be funded by statutory services. We do not accept applications directly from individual members of the public.
'grieftalk’, the brand new helpline from Grief Encounter, providing support for you, when you need it.
Are you a child, teenager or adult who has recently experienced the death of a loved one? Do you need to talk? You can call, email or instant chat with trained professionals at grieftalk, 5 days a week, 9am – 9pm.
Grief Encounter offers a flexible and accessible service, which aims to professionally care and respond to bereaved children, young people and their families via counselling, group activities, family fun days, residential camps and interactive online services.
Programme of bi monthly interactive health talks to older people focussing on common health problems, including diabetes.
Physical activity (indoor or outdoor), health and wellbeing workshop, self-help group, health events and conferences. Free, fun, learning based services and activities to local people to improve their health and wellbeing. Women only or Men only or mixed group sessions are available across culturally diverse Healthworks consortia members.
‘Healthy Lungs’ is an exercise class designed for people with breathing conditions or difficulties. The classes include graded circuit training to help improve endurance and strength. This type of exercise will increase lung function and muscle strength, which will allow you to perform your daily living activities with less effort.
These classes are offered to Kensington and Chelsea residents and in order to take part, a diagnosed lung condition is essential.
Regular visits to your home every 4 weeks; books including large print and audiobooks, CDs, DVDs and magazines; local information on health and council services; a telephone book group; a service tailored to your requirements. All HLS services are free, except the loan of DVDs
You can apply to join the Home Library Service if you live in the Royal Borough and are:
• a carer
• a person with disabilities
• an older ⁄ elderly person who finds getting about difficult
You can also apply on a temporary basis if you live in the Royal Borough and:
• you are recovering from an accident that has left you temporarily immobile
• you are looking after someone which makes leaving the house difficult
• you find it difficult during the winter months to get out and about
If you are living in Westminster and find it difficult to get to a library because you are elderly, have a disability or long-term illness or are caring for someone, the home library service (HLS) can come to you.
Regular visits to your home every 3 weeks; books including large print and audiobooks, CDs, DVDs and magazines; local information on health and council services; a telephone book group; a service tailored to your requirements. All HLS services are free, except the loan of DVDs
Stonewall Housing provides housing support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in their own homes, supported housing for young LGBT people, as well as free, confidential housing advice for LGBT people of all ages in every London borough.
Telephone advice line (02073595767) is available 11.00am - 5.00pm each weekday , as well as weekly and monthly drop-in sessions. Local appointments and translation services available for people who have access requirements, please call the advice line or fill in a contact form on our website for further information.
There are a number of ways we can support you. We can advise on housing, finance, health, personal life, support & care and future planning. You can call the Helpline to talk about how we can help. You can also arrange to receive a regular phone call or visit from one of our volunteers.
The project works closely with RBKC's sensory team to provide benefit and grant application support to those who are blind or partially sighted, as well as enable users to access other services and activities provided by the organisation.
Dadihiye offer drop in sessions at both their Thorpe Close office and at 1 Nevern Place SW5 9NR.
They are able to assist with form filling, making phone calls, housing support, debt advice.
Drop in times are 10am-4pm Monday - Thursday at 1 Thorpe Close W10 5XL. Nevern Place is MONDAY ONLY
The project provides advice, casework, advocacy and support with problems around: 1. Maximising income (benefits, charity grants, energy suppliers and tariffs, money advice and iating debt repayment plans); 2. Housing conditions (disrepair, overcrowding, adaptations and homelessness),3. Health & well-being (statutory services - adult social care, blue badge eligibility, personal care options, community services and well-being activities etc.).4. Employment discrimination (reasonable adjustments, terms and conditions, unfair dismissal etc.)
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW** or directly to provider (outside of MCMW)
Our welfare benefits caseworker offers advice on welfare benefits issues to people who live in Kensington and Chelsea only. We specialise in helping people to challenge unfair decisions about their benefits.
We can provide assistance with a number of issues including: Welfare benefits, Health & disabilities, Housing, Social care needs, advice on energy efficiency & fuel poverty. We also offer assistance with form filling.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW** or directly to provider (outside of MCMW)
Generalist advice is available to residents of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. The advice centre offers a drop in service for quick queries, office appointments, home visits, phone advice. Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10:30-13:00. Other times by appointment.
We provide accessible Information, Advice and Guidance to Deaf people in their first language. Our areas of expertise include benefits, money, housing, employment, debt and family/domestic.
KAYAV supports the wellbeing and provides integration of Kosovar and Albanian Asylum, Refugee, and other BME families with children and young people, through education, training, volunteering, cultural and sports activities.
Chelsea Old Town Hall, SW3 5EE
Drop in: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10.00am - 12.30 pm;
Thursday: 10.00am - 12.30pm (pre-booked appointments only).
Telephone Advice: 0300 330 1174
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.00am - 4pm;
Tuesday: 11.30am - 4pm.
North Kensington, 2 Acklam Rd, W10 5QZ
Drop in Mon-Fri 10.00am-12.30 and 12.30-16.00
Telephone Advice 0300 330 1174
Monday and Thursday 13.00-16.00
Italian, Punjabi, Vietnamese, Cantonese.
Various locations, dates and times throughout the week. Please call Ximena or Joanna or email for further details.
We provide activities for adults and children and young people. Our programme for adults includes fitness for women and an activities afternoon. We also hold events throughout the year such as a summer picnic and coach trip, parties, film nights and board game nights. We work with 8s-11s and with girls aged 11-16.
A programme of social activities for carers of people with learning disabilities. They will continue this by providing 10 activities for over 30 carers and provide advice and information to over 50 carers.
Group exercise, for people recovering from or living with long term neurological conditions. Physiotherapy led exercise classes, with individual assessment of each participant's needs at the start and after every 12 sessions of the programme. This means all participants have their exercises individually tailored within the group setting, enabling them to get the maximum physical benefit out of their efforts and to continually progress. Participants have expressed how being supported by a physiotherapist post NHS discharge increases their confidence in attending exercise. We ensure we goal set and signpost to other community physical activity sessions
We give advice about different housing related issues to hundreds of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) people every year. We understand what you, or your friends, might be experiencing. So if you need advice, contact us. You can phone us, or you can come along to one of our drop-in surgeries. Some of the housing issues we’ve helped LGBT+ people with include:
if you’re homeless or at risk of becoming homeless;
if your relationship with your family has broken down because of your sexual orientation or gender identity;
if you’ve been victimised or harassed;
if you need to escape from domestic abuse;
if you need advice about a dispute with your landlord;
if you need advice with your housing benefits
One to one mental health advocacy and support with self care for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans people 16+. The project will also provide awareness training to local professionals and agencies
Information about events for adults at your libraries in the borough. Booking is required for most events.
Special events for adults
We host a variety of special events and workshops in our libraries for adults throughout the year such as author events, history talks and craft workshops.
Open Age runs over 380 activities a week for anyone aged over 50 including Zumba, gentle seated exercise, Tai Chi, yoga (including women only classes), meditation, dance mix, group walking, walking football, singing, International cooking, Steady & Stable, Pilates, Board games, Drama & Theatre Club, Lunch Clubs, Phone groups (suits housebound), Art and creative classes, philosophy/discussion groups, Language groups, Table Tennis, Social groups, Bingo, Technology classes (Windows 10, smartphones, tablets), Trips around London and much more. Working with people who are isolated or at risk of isolation. The service will conduct home visits and work with people on a one-to-one basis identifying areas/activities of interest and barriers to accessing activities and work with the person to reduce/remove these barriers, including accompanying people to activities to build their confidence to attend alone. Onward referrals will also be made to other services. Transport is provided for those who are unable to use public transport. Various locations
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW** or directly to provider (outside of MCMW)
Learning activity for the hearing impaired aimed at helping them to manage their hearing loss and consequent diminishing confidence and ability to socialise and function normally within a hearing-orientated society.
If you are struggling to afford the basic household items for your family, the Local Support Payments program may be able to help. If you live in Hammersmith and Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea or Westminster, and you need help because of an emergency or a crisis, you may be entitled to a Local Support Payment. You may also qualify if you need help to remain or settle in the community. The payments are not given to you as cash. They are usually good quality, second hand furniture or white goods (for example, refrigerators or washing machines) or store vouchers for specific goods. Before you can claim a Local Support Payment you have to: be claiming a qualifying benefit, or about to claim one because you are leaving care or an institution such as hospital or prison, live in one of the boroughs listed above, or have been housed elsewhere by one of those boroughs, not have too much in savings, and not have had more than two LSPs in the last 12 months.
Open to people who are isolated, homeless or in crisis. Open: Tuesday, 12.30pm-1.30pm. Venue: 205 Portobello Road, Notting Hill, W11 1LU
A programme of workshops and activity groups for people with progressive, life-limiting illnesses and their carers aimed at promoting self-management and peer support. Activities include Feel Good Days, relaxation groups, yoga classes, dementia groups, breathlessness, anxiety and fatigue management.
Monthly Peer Group Meeting providing information and advise on managing the condition, as well a s relaxation and social activities tailored to people with sight loss, establishing a network of peers for on-going support as the condition degenerates and preventing isolation
One-to-one massage sessions delivered by a qualified and experienced therapist. Massage can be delivered at peoples' homes or at one of 3 local centres.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW**
A twice-weekly subsidised lunch group (members pay £4.50 towards the cost of the lunch). The lunch is prepared off-site by a local restaurant and delivered to two Open Age venues. Once a month the group have lunch in a local restaurant. Transport is provided for those who are unable to get to the sites on public transport. It is an opportunity for people to socialise and receive a low cost healthy two course meal.
Monthly gatherings for people with memory difficulties and their friends and family. All are welcome to socialise and relax over tea and refreshments.
Men's only activities covering digital photography, football, gym, reminiscence, social groups, games, trips, lunches, gardening
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW** or directly to provider
Free, independent and confidential IMHA (Independent Mental Health Advocacy) and Mental Health Advocacy. This is available to older people with a mental health issue in hospital and in the community.
One to one support for WOMEN; practical (information and advice) and emotional. Increase mental health awareness through monthly group work/talks.
The project gives support to people from BME communities experiencing emotional upset and distress, but without a formal mental health diagnosis; face to face sessions in clients own mother tongues by volunteers trained to be active listeners and to offer non-judgemental support
Members can collect a mobility scooter to use to visit places of interest, meet friends for lunch or just enjoy the local scenery. We also have a number of wheelchairs available to rent. For more information call 020 8960 8774 weekdays between 1 pm – 4 pm to book your scooter.
One to one support for Arabic speaking Ladies and Gentlemen over the age of 55. information and advice, practical help, including emotional support. Outreach visits and follow up support available.
One to one sessions to clients on a weekly basis with a trained bereavement volunteer.
Elefriends is a supportive online community where you can be yourself. We all know what it’s like to struggle sometimes, but now there’s a safe place to listen, share and be heard
A variety of therapies including Acupressure, Aromatherapy , Osteopathy , Reflexology , Reiki , Shiatsu , Meditation , relaxation therapy, sleep workshops etc
If you live in Westminster and are aged 50 plus or a carer, the Penfold Community Hub has a wide range of opportunities available to you. We offer stimulating and accessible activities, as well as advice and counselling services, to help you remain healthy, independent and active in your local community.
Activities and services
Physical activity classes, including exercise, music, Tai Chi and chair-based yoga
Age UK Westminster drop-in sessions (twice-weekly) for confidential help and advice
Introductory painting and drawing classes, along with craft sessions
Cook and Eat sessions – cooking up a weekly healthy lunch for older residents in the community
Drop-in Sewing Café, with free access to sewing machines and a friendly group of people
Gardening – growing vegetables and flowers for the Centre, and if you wish, in a patch of your own
Well-being services, including reflexology, massage, acupuncture, beauty therapy, hairdressing and more, all at very reasonable cost
Regular health information sessions on issues such as diabetes, dementia and preventing falls
Social lunches (weekly) with accessible activities in the afternoon
Singing groups, Bingo, minibus and coach outings, visits to the theatre and art galleries, and the list goes on!
Open Age runs weekly phone groups for people who are housebound. Creative writing, social groups and book groups are held over the phone and free of charge to participants. All people referred will also be visited at home by the phone group coordinator.
Around 160 hours of a wide variety of physical activities a week, focused on exercise (e.g. chair exercise, yoga, pilates, dance and zumba) sport (e.g. table tennis, badminton and football); delivered by qualified instructors across numerous community venues in Westminster, and Kensington & Chelsea. The programme also offers health related and social activities to improve general wellbeing
Mind is often the first port of call for people suffering or affected by mental health issues. This peer support I&A service aims to improve access to advice, information and services, signposting people affected by mental distress, including family members, partners/spouses, neighbours and friends to the appropriate services and support
A weekly mental health community theatre project, with a focus on a different aspect of mental health each quarter. The project will support people to build their confidence and reflect on ways they can manage and take action on their mental health, with the group doing four performances over the year
A mindfulness group for older people that gives service users the tools to re-connect with the present moment, and be more in control of their health and wellbeing
There are regular monthly groups, special interest groups (eg crime readers) and informal 'shared reading' groups, as well as a telephone group for those who are housebound. Some groups also report what they've read and their thoughts on the Books and the City blog. Sessions are free, friendly and informal and you will be made very welcome. Each session has a theme and there is also general discussion. Some sessions have guest speakers and most provide refreshments. Contact local library for details of their reading group.
Equal People Mencap offer a wide variety of supported training, groups, activities and social groups throughout the week at our Resource Centre in Ladbroke Grove and out in the community. Our daily Drop-in runs Monday to Friday 10-4pm.
If you are a carer, having some time away from your caring responsibilities is important to maintain your own health and wellbeing. Our respite services provide carers with a well-earned break, safe in the knowledge that there is a Care Support Worker on hand to deliver the care that is needed in their absence. While our team is providing care, unpaid carers work, attend activities, rest, visit family or friends, attend their own medical appointments or simply run errands and complete chores.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW**
Members can hire a scooter for FREE during office hours. One to one FREE training provided. Delivery/ Collection (subject to availability) of scooters to/from preferred location can be arranged - charges apply
Centre based (at SMART and ADKC) massage sessions and a limited number of home based sessions. Options will include seated massage, Indian Head massage, reflexology, or Reiki. By appointment on The 4th Thursday of the month, 1-5pm at SMART AND the 2nd Tuesday of the month, 1:15-5:15pm at ADKC.
Weekly Shared Reading groups for people who are looking for a place to make meaningful connections within themselves and with other people in their community. We read great stories and poems aloud in the groups each week, using the literature as a starting point to help us discover what is common and unique about our thoughts and feelings. Group members are invited to read aloud, join in the conversation or sit back and relax while listening to the story—this is a non-pressure environment where everyone is welcome.
These groups run in partnership with libraries, community centres, hospitals, and day centres across Kensington and Chelsea. Please contact us to find a group near you.
Escorted Shopper Service on a minibus provided for elderly and disabled residents of Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster. Shopper Timetable:
MONDAY: NORTH Waitrose, Kensington High St
NORTH Sainsburys, Ladbroke Grove
TUESDAY: SOUTH Sainsburys, Cromwell Road
WEDNESDAY: NORTH Sainsburys, Ladbroke Grove
THURSDAY: SOUTH Kings Road
FRIDAY: NORTH Tesco, Brook Green
We organise a wide range of sporting events and training programmes. We organise many events and social activities encouraging people to take up fitness regardless of ability and background. We have organised guided walks, fun runs, half marathons, tug of war events and many more. Wi th an annual membership which only costs £5 you receive a discount at all the venues , and after each session we meet for a cup of coffee/tea and socialising at a local cafe. We hope to get to meet you at one of our Fitness & Fun session soon!
This is a group for both people with dementia and carers to attend which is centred around a one hour singing activity. Either side of the singing, we facilitate peer support, with half an hour of tea and coffee and an opportunity to chat with one another.There is a trained member of staff available to answer any questions related to living well with dementia.
Respiratory education by newsletter and regular meetings with talks by local community support and clinical leads. Outings, raffles, talks to NHS local COPD rehab sessions and Health Fairs.
SMART is a charity supporting people affected by mental illness on their path to recovery. Mondays - discussion group and light refreshments, 6-9pm. Wednesday - Film Club and popcorn 6-9pm Thursdays - Quiz Night, 6-9pm. Saturdays - Scrabble club and home cooked meal, open 10-4pm, live music once a month Sundays - Sunday roast and Creative space twice a month, open 10-4pm
Kick It is the free stop smoking service for residents or those registered with a GP whom are currently smoking. The service provides 1-1 motivational support, alongside free nicotine replacement therapies and regular carbon monoxide monitoring.
An evidenced based falls prevention exercise programme aimed at improving balance and muscle strength to reduce falls. Health talks related to falls are delivered on a monthly basis. The programme also identifies other organisations who work with the older adult and offers staff members training to deliver Steady and Stable exercise classes. All classes are delivered by qualified instructors.
Tai Chi is an excellent form of physical activity. It is a combination of physical yoga and meditation, helping improve posture and strength. We run two Tai Chi classes every Sunday at the Soho Centre for Health and Care (1 Frith Street, London W1D 3QS). Class 1: 12:15pm - 1:15pm. Class 2: 1:20pm - 2:20pm. There is a charge of £4 per session.
Free telephone social groups to make friends, chat with and support other blind and partially sighted people.
We provide facilities for social welfare, recreation and healthy ageing with the object of improving the conditions of life and relieving the needs of older people aged 50 and over, particularly those of African and Caribbean origin living in the borough of K&C and the surrounding boroughs, as well as to offer care and assistance to those suffering from physical and mental disabilities.
We offer free transport to our Day care members, some of whom cannot use other means of travel. We get referrals from social services, G.P's and places of worship.
A programme providing weekly activities and trips to give older unpaid carers time for themselves away from their caring role
The Volunteer Cars are a one-to-one car service, supported by volunteers. For more information call 020 8964 1114 weekdays between 1 pm – 4 pm.
A client-led programme developing the skills, knowledge and confidence of 40 volunteers with stable mental health needs, enabling them to exercise more control over their health and well-being and support others to do the same. A wide-range of activities will be co-designed and co-delivered by the volunteers.
Weekly visits by volunteer walking companion to aid recovery, increase level of fitness and confidence and prevent isolation, and in doing so prevention of falls and maintain physical health and mental wellbeing.
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW** or directly to provider (outside of MCMW)
Weekly walking session of no less than one hour, which is undertaken by a combination of Health Support Personal Assistants (HSPAs) and/or volunteer companions. Patient would initially be risk assessed by a Registered Nurse (RN).
**Referrals made via SystmOne MCMW**
MOTHER Tongue Service is able to offer translations (Arabic, Farsi or any OTHER language on request) of any leaflets or fact-sheets related to this particular incident free of cost.