FIND URGENT MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

IN ENGLAND, DIAL 111 AND SELECT OPTION 2. 

In an emergency, when someone is at immediate risk of harm, dial 999.

Other options:

Mental health crisis line (Wiltshire) -  people who are experiencing a mental health crisis or supporting someone in crisis, can call the Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust crisis line: 0800 953 1919. 

Campaign against living miserably or CALM - offer information and support to help prevent suicide. This includes a helpline on 0800 58 58 58 from 5pm to midnight 365 days a year and a web chat (there is a link from their website's home page).

Samaritans - if you are feeling hopeless and helpless, please contact the Samaritans by phone on 116 123 for the quickest response - 24 hours a day. They also offer other contact options if you are not in crisis.

FIND OTHER MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

Hub of Hope - the UK’s leading mental health support database. It is provided by national mental health charity, Chasing the Stigma, and brings local, national, peer, community, charity, private and NHS mental health support and services together in one place for the first time.

Access Community Mental Health (Wiltshire) - a recovery and peer support service for adults in need of support (but not in a crisis). This used to be run locally by Rethink, it is now run by the BSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Partnership. You can refer yourself or someone else can refer you. There is a form on their website or ring 03002 225745.

The Intensive Outreach Service, also run by the BSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Partnership, has replaced Rethink's Wiltshire Mental Health Inclusion Service - a professional needs to refer you to this service, so ask your GP or Community Psychiatric Nurse if you think this might meet your needs.

BSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Partnership is a collaboration between: 

• Second Step – A leading mental health charity in the South West
• Alabaré – A national homelessness and mental health charity based in Wiltshire
• Nilaari – A Black-led mental health charity
• Missing Link – A charity that provides women's mental health services

Don't worry if you hear these charities' names mentioned as they each deliver different parts of the service under the BSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Partnership. It's all part of the same thing! BSW stands for Bath & North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire.

Talking Therapies in Wiltshire -  a website has been set up to support those experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood or depression. It will be the central hub for wellbeing resources, including self-help guides and advice and support. You can also self-refer to the free confidential NHS Talking Therapies service through the new site - Wiltshire residents should ring 01380 731335. (NB Talking Therapies used to be known as IAPT services.)

Too stressed to attend school or college? The Barriers to Education website may be helpful. It has lots of info for teachers and lecturers (share the link with them), but also contains practical tools for both young people and adults.

AI chatboxes - at the present time artificial intelligence (AI) chatboxes are NOT capable of providing safe advice or counselling for mental health matters. Read this article and be very wary of using them as substitute friends or therapists. Come along to one of our sessions and speak to real people! We can help you find more support if you need it.

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Something for everyone?

Almost all our members have complained at some point about how easy it is to get distracted from a task. This 5 minute video from the BBC gives some good advice about managing those distractions.

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The rest of this list is arranged in alphabetical order.

1. ADDICTIONS

Gambling addiction - If you, or someone you care about, are affected by gambling and registered with a GP in south-west England, visit Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust's webpage to find out more, or to complete the self-referral form. Alternatively you can refer yourself by calling 0330 022 3175.

The National Centre for Gaming Disorders (NHS) - provides treatment for people in England, aged 13 years and over, who have severe difficulty controlling their video game use and the impact it has on their lives. The centre is experiencing overwhelming demand, so its referral routes have been reduced, but you can ask your GP to consider referring you.

2. APPS AND GAMES

Tiimo app - an app designed to help neurodivergent people manage their time 'in a way that suits them', according to their website.

Apps - NHS Dorset has a useful list of recommended apps to support the mental health and wellbeing of (mainly) teenagers. Our local Integrated Care Board also has an app library, covering a range of conditions, such as mental health, cancer and diabetes. These apps have been subjected to testing by the NHS, some apps on sites like Google Play may contain risky information or hidden costs.

Apps for young people - the Youth Adventure Trust has recommended the following apps to us:

• Clear Fear - a free app to help children and young people manage the symptoms of anxiety
• Kooth  - an online mental wellbeing community
• Move Mood - a free app to help teenagers manage low mood and depression 
• Tellmi - a free app where young people can share their worries and support each other (moderated by professionals

A local app for young people is the Growing Well Wiltshire App. 

Video games - if you like a complex sci-fi video game, Warframe is available on multiple platforms. It has a particularly welcoming online community and one of the heros in the game is autistic. One of our members highly recommends Celeste too.

Tips to stay safe in online games as a neurodivergent teen.

Guidance for parents and carers of neurodivergent gamers

Tips hub - The Autistica Tips Hub is a free app to help you find reliable autism tips and evidence-based resources. Created by and for the autistic community, it offers practical tips and high-quality resources to make everyday life easier.

Wildling app - this new app has impressive supporters, like the RSPB. It details local nature reserves and similar and has lots of suggestions for engaging with nature.

Waymap - this is an app which does not rely on an internet connection to lead you to your destination. Unlike, other map apps, it works indoors and outdoors, so you can use it to navigate somewhere like a shopping centre. It might be useful for anyone who gets overwhelmed in such places and wants to find the nearest exit. Let us know if you test it!

Focus Friend - one of our members brought this free app to our attention (optional in-app purchases). It may be helpful for anyone who wants to take a break from their phone. Basically, it locks you out of your apps for a short period so you can focus on what you need to do. There is a short news item here that explains it and it's available for both Apple and Android phones from your usual app store.

The joy and stress of gaming with autism - highly regarded autism expert, Tony Attwood, is interviewed about this here.

3. BEREAVEMENT

Bereavement - a good source of information is The Good Grief Trust, which pulls together info from a wide range of organisations involved in supporting and advising bereaved people. The government provides guidance on all the admin associated with a death here.

4. CARERS

Support for unpaid carers is available from Carers Together Wiltshire - a group of local charitable organisations working together. Phone 01380 710300 or email enquiries@carerstogetherwiltshire.org.uk 

Carer ID cards - available from Carer Friendly Wiltshire. Useful if a carer becomes unwell as it tells medical staff there is someone else who may need support.

Free training and 1-to-1 sessions - for paid and unpaid carers of autistic people is available from Autism Central (south-west hub).

5. COMMUNICATION NEEDS

Health passports (also known as hospital or wellbeing passports) - if communication isn't your strong point, especially when you are ill, consider completing a health passport to give to healthcare professionals when you are unable to explain your needs. Templates are available from organisations like the National Autistic Society or Mencap.

Help with reading - Read Easy North and West Wiltshire  teL: 07367 100 936

Help to get online in Wiltshire can be found here - don't get left behind!

Making phone calls if you have hearing or speech difficulties - sometimes, you cannot avoid making a phone call, e.g. to your bank. If you are able to read and type using an app, Relay UK offer a free text relay service to help with this and they are committed to confidentiality. You can also use it to contact a person who is hearing or speech impaired, so long as they have the app. It is free, apart from normal phone charges.

Books Beyond Words - well researched picture books to help people anticipate or understand what might happen if they attend court, go to hospital, have a relationship etc. An app is also available.

Widgit - free access to some basic signs and symbols to support those with communication difficulties. There is a fee to access their other resources.

Ace Centre - works with people of all ages who use augmentative or alternative communication (AAC) or assistive technology (AT). Provides some free low-tech communication resources too.

Speaking up for yourself - if you have trouble understanding complicated things like your care assessment or review and/or expressing your views about the care you receive, you may be entitled to an independent advocate who can help with this. Voiceability is the local provider of independent advocacy. Eligibility criteria apply. Let us know if you need help and we can put you in touch if need be.

6. DENTAL HEALTH

NHS dentists - access to NHS dental services is extremely limited. Click here to check if there are any local dentists that will accept adult NHS patients in the Chippenham area (some offer NHS appointments to children). At the time of uploading this information, none were providing an NHS service for new adult patients. If you have severe learning disabilities or a few other conditions, you may be able to use the NHS's community dental services, but you usually need to be referred by your own dentist. You can check this with NHS England on 0300 311 2233 if need be.

Urgent dental care - in December 2025 local NHS commissioners announced  there are extra appointments now available for people in our area (you may need to travel outside Chippenham though).

These appointments are for urgent conditions including:

• Swelling or infections in the face or mouth that are getting worse (but not affecting breathing)
• Severe dental or facial pain that can’t be eased with normal painkillers
• Broken or badly moved teeth after an accident
• Knocked-out baby teeth
• Facial injuries that may need a hospital check
• Bleeding in the mouth that you cannot stop
• Gum or mouth infections, like painful or rapidly worsening gum disease or cold sore outbreaks

You do not have to be registered with a dentist to access urgent care. To get an urgent appointment go to NHS 111 or phone 111.

Emergency dental care - call 999 or go to the nearest A&E in Bath or Swindon if you have:

• Swelling making it hard to breathe or swallow
• Heavy bleeding in your mouth or face that will not stop
• A serious injury to your mouth or face.

7. DOMESTIC ABUSE

Domestic violence - ring 999 in an emergency, otherwise contact the police on 111 if you want to report domestic violence. If you are not sure about reporting it or you have reported it and need support, consider calling Fear Free which operates in Wiltshire. They do not require you to report abuse to work with you. NB Men - you can also be victims of domestic abuse, don't let your gender put you off seeking help.

Coercive control - not all domestic abuse involves physical violence. Inform yourself about coercive control by watching this short film from Scotland.

Economic abuse - if someone else is controlling your money in a way that disadvantages you, for example, they might be running up debts in your name or leaving you without enough money to eat, you can find help on the Surviving Economic Abuse website.

8. EATING DISORDERS

Beat - the website for support for people with eating disorders. The Orri website is also helpful. Peace Pathway is especially for autistic people.

9. EMPLOYMENT AND STUDYING

Genius Finder is a well regarded online assessment tool designed to support individuals to explore their work-related strengths and challenges. It also provides some strategies for addressing the most common issues.  Currently it costs £42 a year.

Time management - if you feel overwhelmed by work, tend to procrastinate, struggle with concentration or have problems meeting deadlines, you may want to look at the Pomodoro Technique and download the associated timer (for a small fee). It’s not for everyone though, some people find it hinders rather than help.

The Bullet Journal ('Bujo') - some people swear by this method for organising work (and life) admin; others find it too complicated. However, it is particularly helpful for people who like pen and paper. There is a good video introduction here.

How to start tasks - here are some tips from Paula Jones, who describes herself as a ND Leadership Consultant & Coach, Strategic Trouble-Maker, Doctoral Research Student. We have slightly amended them for clarity.

• Shrink The Task Until It’s Ridiculous – make the first step so tiny it feels laughable. 
• Externalise the Start – make sure the task is in your face (whiteboard, sticky note, timer). 
• Activate Interest / Novelty – add music, coffee, or a shiny pen. 
• Anchor With Sensory Cues – hoodie, fidget, weighted blanket while starting. 
• Body Double / Co-Working – get someone (or even your dog) to witness you start. 
• Build a Ramp, Not a Cliff – use transition rituals, don’t cliff-jump into tasks. 
• Adjust the Environment – headphones, workspace, close tabs. 
• Permission to Half-Arse It – remind yourself that touching the task counts. 
• Use Rewards Shamelessly – bribe your brain with dopamine. 
• Reset Compassionately – if it’s not happening, it’s not failure. Try later.

.Follow Paula on LinkedIn for more tips.

10. EXERCISE

Graded weekly guided walking groups - for starters, strollers or striders. Details are available on the Wiltshire Council website. 

Walking football and walking netball (free) - contact kev@doorwayproject.org.uk or rachael.cornish@wiltshire.gov.uk

11. FOOD AND COOKING

Recipes and cookery videos are available from Bristol-based Square Food Foundation. There is also have a free 4 week meal planner. They have worked for 25 years teaching people of all ages and abilities in Bristol how to cook, with the aim of reducing hunger, improving health, and bringing people together. 

Food banks - Wiltshire Council has an interactive map on its website which gives details of local food banks. In some cases, you may need a referral.

No cook recipes - no need to heat anything up! Some of the recipes are a bit fancy, but they may inspire you to assemble something tasty. For example, you could replace salmon in one of the recipes with a tin of tuna.

Healthy and affordable ingredients - there is no need to buy expensive 'superfoods'. Read this article on alternatives, some of which you may already have at home.

12. HOARDING

Hoarding UK - is a national charity helping those affected by hoarding. Hoarding behaviour stems from a range of issues some psychological, behavioural, practical, etc.  Not everyone who is living amongst an abundance of items would be given the diagnosis of ‘hoarding disorder’. What one person calls clutter may not be how another person views it. Their website includes a tool to help people decide if they need support - check out 'clutter index ratings' under the 'about hoarding' tab.

De-cluttering - You may not be a hoarder, but if you are someone who finds it hard to de-clutter, try the S.I.M.P.L.E. method:

• Sort like with like
• Identify what you want to keep
• Make a home for it
• Put it in containers
• Label everything
• Establish a routine

13. HOUSING

Homeless or at risk of homelessness - contact Doorway email info@doorwayproject.org.uk or phone 01249 445385 /07921 215250. They have various drop ins during the week where you can get advice or support. Usually these are held at the Citadel in Bath Road (opposite Grounded), but, since their premises were flooded, some take place at the Rotary Hall in Station Hill.

Social housing - if you live in Wiltshire and meet the eligibility criteria for social housing, the place to apply is Homes4Wiltshire. All Wiltshire's social housing providers are signed up to this choice-based lettings scheme. We are happy to help our members navigate the system, if they need support.

14. KEEPING SAFE

Scams - we should all be alert to scams (we have just heard of someone who has worked in fraud for 40 years being scammed). To keep up to date with the various scams doing the rounds, subscribe to Which? magazine's scam alerts. The same link includes information about how to report scams.

What3words - a useful location app which has saved lives.  It can now be used to help locate people who don't have the app, but have a smart phone with them. Just send them this link: https://locate.what3words.com/ and ask them to tell you the 3 words that come up. You can then pass the 3 words on to the emergency services or find them yourself.

Flood risk - this map shows where there are flood risks. If you live in a risky area you can sign up for flood warnings from the Environment Agency here. Wiltshire Council provides a list of who to contact in a flood emergency and some advice for anyone whose home is flooded. If you need sandbags, you will need to buy them - Travis Perkins and Jewsons are listed as suppliers for Chippenham.

Drink spiking - inform yourself of the risks, check out the Stamp Out Spiking website. Wiltshire police are distributing bottle stoppers and glass caps to lots of venues, so try asking for one if you think you are at risk.

Cuckooing - the government has announced that stronger laws are being brought in to protect people from cuckooing (2025). Cuckooing is a practice where people take over a person’s home and exploit them. It takes the name from cuckoos who take over the nests of other birds.

People with mental health difficulties, autistic people and people with learning disabilities are particularly vulnerable to cuckooing and may see their abuser as their friend.

What you can do to help (NEST):

• Notice the signs - Look out for your neighbours especially if there has been a change in their behaviour.
• Evidence your concerns - Make a note of your concerns, times, dates, what has happened and identity or names of people coming in and out.  
• Stay Safe - do not approach any of the people you believe may be cuckooing your neighbour or take photographs.
• Tell the Council and the Police - contact Wiltshire Council and ring the police on 101 (999 if there is a risk of immediate harm).

Friend or fake? - there is a helpful easy-read booklet detailing some of the warning signs that your 'mate' might not have your best interests at heart here (plus other useful resources).

Power cuts / water outage - people with disabilities and older people should apply to join the priority services register. This should ensure the relevant company will check you are not at significant risk if there is a problem with their supply. For example, during water supply problems in Chippenham people on the register were contacted to check they had access to bottled water. Details on the Warm and Safe Wiltshire website.

What to do if you lose your mobile phone (or it gets stolen) - Which? consumer magazine has a useful article here.

What to do if you lose your passport (or it gets stolen) - there is a useful newspaper article on this here.

Mental Capacity Act - this law helps people aged 16+ who lack capacity to make decisions for themselves, especially if it is a big decision like medical treatment or moving house. It is supposed to ensure their wishes are taken into account and that no one takes advantage of them. 

The law is 'decision-specific'. This means that capacity is assessed for each decision that needs to be made, as people's ability to make decisions can fluctuate. For example, a person on long-term medicines that keep a health condition under control can feel well (because of the medicine) so they do not understand the need for it. Yet they may fully understand why it is a good idea to take an antibiotic for a short-term chest infection, because they feel ill.

Anyone can lack capacity at some point in their lives, but Mencap's information for people with learning disabilities is a good starting point for those who need to know more.

Safeguarding - Chippenham Collective has a safeguarding policy and, like many organisations, we are obliged to report concerns about our members' wellbeing to Wiltshire Council. For example, if we think someone is being abused financially, emotionally or physically. We are required to do this, even if the person does not consent to us sharing this info. 

Safeguarding is meant to be a supportive process. If there is evidence you are being abused, you should receive support whilst the risk to you is reduced or removed. Do talk to us if you think you are being abused and we will do all we can to help. Find out more or report safeguarding concerns direct to the council here.

15. LEARNING DISABILITIES

Podcast - Richard Keagan-Bull is a researcher at Kingston University and a man with a learning disability. In the Cuppa Tea with Richard podcast he talks about things that matter with a variety of guests.

Friendly Faces Inclusion Cafe - a group for 'people with additional support needs' that meets centrally in Chippenham. Includes some dog walking sessions. They advertise on Facebook. We found them here.

Annual health checks - everyone aged over 14 years who has a learning disability is entitled to an annual health check at their GP. Autistic people who also have a learning disability are included in this, but not autistic people without a learning disability. Government evidence shows these health checks resulted in the identification of previously undetected health conditions in 51% to 94% of patients, so it is important to have them. Contact your GP surgery to arrange one. Mencap tell you what to expect here.

If you have learning disabilities, be sure to check out other sections of this list as some may be helpful.

16. MENTAL HEALTH ADVICE

Medicines and therapies for mental health issues - Mind provide lots of accessible information to help people understand and get the best out of any medicine or therapy likely to be prescribed for a mental health condition.

Responding to unusual behaviour (linked to mental illness) - Rethink Mental Illness have a useful fact sheet.

Mental Health Top Tips - a short video from the Mental Health Foundation. Evidence-based.

Panic attacks - see the Mental Health Foundation guide to understanding and managing them.

Nature and mental health - a guide from Mind.

The Mental Health Act - if you are detained (sectioned) against your will under the Mental Health Act (MHA), you, and those closest to you, need to know your rights. Mind and Rethink both have useful information. Be aware that the MHA is due to be reformed.

Eco-anxiety - more and more people are anxious about climate change and pollution. Research shows that taking action helps people feel a bit better.  Here are some things an individual can do to support insects which are vital for life on earth: protect insects. Organisations like Greenpeace or Froglife and many others have lots of suggestions for campaigning or taking practical action. If anxiety helps us save the planet it will be our friend!

Coping with rejection - a short film with Olivia Williamson, actor, singer and ADHD-er, about strategies she uses to cope with rejection.

The 'baby blues' or postnatal depression? - it is normal for most new mums to experience a few days of the baby blues (feeling tearful and a bit overwhelmed) after giving birth as their hormones settle back down. No treatment is required. However, 10-15% of new mothers experience postnatal depression which may require treatment. The Royal College of Psychiatrists has some useful information. Go to your GP if you think you might have postnatal depression. If you are concerned about an immediate risk to either the mother or the baby, follow the advice at the top of this page for mental health emergencies.

Recovery College - this NHS resource run locally by Second Step is now available in Wiltshire. Recovery Colleges run free short courses on many aspects of mental health. Courses are often co-designed and co-delivered by people who have faced mental health challenges themselves. Some courses are face-to-face, others are online. They are open to anyone with a GP in the area and their carers. Read all about the BSW Recovery College here.

17. MONEY AND DEBT

Mental Health and Money Advice - practical advice and support for people experiencing issues with mental health and money.

Money and debt advice for all - Christians against Poverty (you don't have to be a Christian to get their help). A wide range of support is on offer. If you are not sure about what you need, why not drop in to the CAP cafe at Station Hill Baptist Church to find out what is available? It's usually on Wednesdays from 10-12.00,  but you can check by ringing Maria Baker on 07842 346776 or emailing mariabaker@capuk.org  

Managing water bills - Wessex Water have lots of schemes to help people with this. For example, flexible payment plans, payment breaks or paying directly from your benefits. Ask the Collective for more info or look at Wessex Water's website.

Cold home / high bills? Warm and Safe Wiltshire offers free advice and support, including grants for broken heating systems if you meet the criteria, vouchers to help pay your bills and other grants. Email: warmandsafe@cse.org.uk or call for free on 0800 038 5722.

Reducing heat loss in your home - sometimes there are cheap ways to minimise heat loss in your home, such as a draft excluder. As well as making your home more comfortable, it can reduce your bills. Identify problems with a thermal camera and get other advice (including info about grants) from the volunteers at Zero Chippenham. You can also borrow a thermal camera from Chippenham Library.

Universal credit helpline - 0800 328 5644

Help from banks - most banks have support teams to help customers who are struggling with debt or related issues or who are unable to bank online, so always ask your bank for help if you need it. Here's an article about the sort of help available from Nationwide.

Emergency financial help - Wiltshire Council may be able to help if you have a low income and are faced with a sudden financial emergency. They don't help with everyday financial pressures, only with unexpected events. However, you can only have your emergency on weekday mornings as that is when the service can be contacted!   Tel: 0300 456 0110 or see their website.

See our section on domestic abuse for information on economic abuse.

18. NEURODIVERGENCE (AUTISM, ADHD etc.)

How to get an autism or ADHD assessment - before you start, read what the National Autism Society says about deciding whether or not to have an assessment. Similar considerations apply for those looking for an ADHD assessment. If you decide to go ahead, diagnostic assessments are available on the NHS so ask your GP in the first instance. However, there is often a long wait. Ask about the Right to Choose scheme which could enable you to be seen by an alternative provider paid for by the NHS. Malmesbury GPs explain this well on their website.

If you are lucky enough to be in a postion to pay approx. £1,500-£2,000,  you can be privately assessed more quickly (but there is usually still a wait). We suggest you find a reputable assessment service by looking on the Care Quality Commission website. It is not very easy to navigate, but we can help you. Think about whether you want to meet the assessor in person or you prefer an online assessment.

Video of ADHD assessment experience - this person was assessed by a reputable UK healthcare provider and chose to post about their experience online. It has been verified as genuine by that provider. Useful if you want to know what's likely to be involved (lasts for one hour 30 minutes) but be aware that any assessment you may have will not be exactly the same. If you want to use the same healthcare provider we can supply details.

Autism and mental health resource - published November 2024 by the Royal College of Psychiatrists. In their words: 'This resource looks at autism and mental health. It explains what autism is, how it’s diagnosed and what support is available for autistic people. It also looks at the kind of care autistic people with mental health problems are entitled to. This resource is aimed at autistic adults and their families and carers, but might also be helpful for younger people.'

ADHD in adults - published June 2023 by the Royal College of Psychiatrists. In their words: 'This information is for adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), adults who think they might have ADHD and the people who know and support them.'

ADHD medicines - be aware that these are in short supply internationally so there could be an interruption in your supply or an occasional change to your prescription. Many ADHD meds are 'controlled drugs'; ones that are subject to an extra layer of security. Make sure you understand your responsibilities. For example, you must report their loss or theft to the police. Also, if you have taken any illicit substances in the last 6 months, it may be unsafe for you to be prescribed some ADHD meds, so be truthful with your prescriber to keep safe.

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) - an aspect of some people's autism (although the debate around this is ongoing). Alternative names are emerging too, e.g. Extreme Demand Avoidance Syndrome (EDA) and Pervasive or Persistent Drive for Autonomy. Find out more from the PDA Society which also suggests some helpful approaches and self-help.

An increasing number of books have been published on PDA, wriiten from the standpoint of parents, professionals and some people with PDA. Here's a list of those books put together by a parent.

Sensory differences - an often overlooked feature of autism. Each person has different experiences, so ask, don't assume and work with the person to make reasonable adjustments where you can. Listen to this podcast to hear how some autistic people are impacted.

Tony Attwood -  a leading international expert on autism who provides lots of insight and practical advice in books and online. For example, he has posted an article on autistic burnout on Linked In.

Booklist - the Thriving Autistic, an Irish not-for-profit social enterprise, has put together a booklist of all sorts of useful / interesting autism-related books. They offer other resources too, but some of the info is only applicable in Ireland.

Executive dysfunction - this is something many neurodivergent people struggle with. Read a newspaper article about it here.

Neurodiversity Education Academy - this Dutch organisation has all sorts of interesting info and online events in English on its website.

Independent ADHD taskforce - in the 1990s there was only one clinic in England for adults with ADHD as it was thought to be something people 'grew out of', now policy and practice are trying to catch up. The taskforce produced its final recommendations in 2025. Sometimes documents like this can be useful if you have to argue your case. The recommendations have no legal status yet, but outline good practice. If your GP wants some free training on ADHD let us know, we have a recommendation.

Clothing (and more) - if you want to announce your neurodivergence to the world or show solidarity with neurodivergent people, one way of doing this is by purchasing items from SAA clothing, a company set up by parents of autistic children. The clothing is designed to be as comfortable as possible to minimise the risk of scratchy labels or similar.

If you are neurodivergent, be sure to check out other sections of this list as some may be helpful.

19. PERKS

Here are some of the very few ‘perks’ of having a disability – if you can prove it. Of course, they are not really perks if you need this support, so if you can think of a better header, let us know.

Cinema tickets - if you have a disability and get certain benefits as a result of this, you can apply for a CEA card. This enables you to get a free ticket for the carer / friend / relation who accompanies you - two for the price of one! There is a small admin charge when you first apply for the card. It is valid at the Reel cinema in Chippenham and many other cinemas.

Essential companions pass for National Trust properties - if you can show proof of disability (like a PIP award letter) when you buy a NT entrance ticket, you can bring a companion in for free. The essential companions pass makes it even easier - just show the card instead. There are several NT properties near Chippenham, such as Laycock Abbey.

Free tandem bike hire - Charlotte's tandems lend, throughout the UK and at no cost, tandems and tag-alongs to (and only to) people with disabilities or additional needs, who are unable to ride a bike safely on their own, so that they can enjoy the wonders of cycling.

20. PHYSICAL HEALTH

Constipation - this condition can be a killer if not addressed. It is particularly a risk for people with learning disabilities who go to the toilet independently and may not report any changes in their toilet habits. Some mental health and other medicines increase the risk of constipation. Here is a fun educational video on a subject that is not frequently discussed by most people!

Just can't wait card - a widely recognised card and/or app to help you discreetly ask for help to access a toilet in an emergency. For anyone with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or any other problem which means they don't get much warning before a trip to the loo is needed. There is a small fee for the card but the app is free.

DNACPR or Do not attempt cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. If you have a life-limiting illness doctors should discuss your wishes for resuscitation (or not) with you and your next of kin. Covid highlighted the fact that a few medics discriminated against people with learning disabilities when deciding on resuscitation. If you or a relative could be impacted by these outdated views, please access the information pack on this topic.

Pre-diabetes - if you have been warned you need to change your habits or you will get diabetes, you might need some accessible information. See the prediabetes guide for people with learning disabilities; it may be helpful for others too.

Gardening when you have chronic pain - a guide from Thrive.

Misophonia - this is an extreme emotional reaction to certain everyday sounds that most people would find relatively easy to ignore. The three main types of sounds that disturb people with misophonia are eating, nose and throat sounds, and repetitive environmental sounds like keyboard tapping and rustling paper. We list it here because people who have it can feel very isolated and we want our members to know that we will understand if they tell us they have misophonia. Oxford Health NHS Trust have some useful info here.

Alcohol-free beer - in 2025, Which? the consumer magazine's tasting panel rated Corona Cero the best alcohol-free beer. Lidl's Perlenbacher was second and is half the price.

Sun cream - an essential item outdoors. Together with a hat it will help you avoid sun burn or skin cancer (and keep you looking younger). Not all sun creams are the same. These are the ones that provide the best protection in 2025 according to Which?

If you don't mind a slight tan:

• Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Suncare (lotion or spray) SPF30
• Aldi Lacura or Lidl Cien SPF30 are cheaper and almost as good.

If you want a sun block:

• Garnier Ambre Solaire Sensitive Advanced Sun Spray SPF50
• Sainsbury's Sun Protect Moisturising Spray Lotion SPF50 is a good cheaper alternative.

It is usually best to buy a smaller bottle as sun creams lose their effectiveness over time and, ideally, should be replaced annually.

Community Healthcare - in our area the NHS has a contract with private provider HCRG to provide many aspects of community healthcare locally. Their services are still free to patients and operate to the same standards as the NHS, but you might see the HCRG logo alongside, or instead of, the NHS one. Chippenham Hospital is now run by HCRG, as are many of the out-patient clinics there. [You have to do a deep dive into their website to find anything about adult community services in Swindon and Wiltshire, as they are listed under Bath & NE Somerset, so use the second link in this paragraph to find it.]

Wheelchair hire - the Red Cross has wheelchairs that can be hired for up to 20 weeks, if you are temporarily in need of one.

How to check your breasts or chest for signs of cancer - the charity CoppaFeel has lots of useful info on its website about the carrying out monthly checks. This helps you to know what is normal for you, so any changes can be identified and treated quickly. They will even send you a free monthly text reminder. Every year, 2,500 people under the age of 40 are diagnosed with cancer of the breast or chest and nearly 400 of them are men. So it is never too early to start.

Online hearing check - Marks & Spencers Opticians, which is also recommended by Which? magazine for hearing aids, offers this free online hearing check on its website for anyone with a set of headphones. It does not replace a full hearing test, but may be useful if you are wondering whether to get one.

Vitamins -  The NHS recommends that everyone in the UK takes a vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter months. This is because, due to low UV levels, our bodies can't produce enough of it naturally (from daylight) between October and March, and you can't get enough from food sources. If you have a health condition, especially if you are on medication for it, check with your GP before taking any vitamins.

However, all vitamin tablets are not the same. Which? consumer magazine tested them in 2025 and Nutravita Vitamin D3 drops (available from Superdrug) scored best. If you prefer tablets, Solgar vitamin D3 1000IU softgels (available from Holland and Barrett) scored highly and BetterYou vitamin D 1000IU, an oral spray (available from Holland and Barrett and Boots) also came out well.

Know your rights - confused about choosing a NHS hospital or doctor? Read this guide. Theoretically applicable to both physical and mental health, but, in practice, choice is a bit more restricted when it comes to mental health.

21. SEXUALITY, SEXUAL HEALTH AND RELATIONSHIPS

Sexuality and relationships - The Supported Loving Network, backed by Choice Support, has produced a series of guides to help support people with learning disabilities and autistic people with their sexuality and relationships.

HPV vaccinations (not just for girls!) - if  you are sexually active and not HPV-vaccinated, read about this important vaccination here.

22. SLEEP DIFFICULTIES

Insomnia - if you regularly find it hard to sleep, there is information about insomnia and some top tips on this NHS website. This newspaper article also contains suggestions about sleep aids that some people have found helpful, just don't try them all at once.

Noisy neighbours - if you have persistently noisy neighbours Wiltshire Council may be able to help. There is information on their website here.

23. TIREDNESS AND FATIGUE

Preventing exhaustion and burnout - if you are prone to extreme fatigue, you may want to explore the concept of energy accounting which can help to reduce the risk. Developed for autistic people but may be useful to others too.

Spoon theory - some autistic people or those with long term physical health conditions find 'spoon theory' to be a useful way of explaining the exhaustion that can be a feature of their life. Here's a short video explaining it.

24. TRAINING AND COURSES

Free courses for carers - online courses and resources for carers provided by the NHS via MindEd. Free education and support is also available for carers of autistic people via the South West Autism Hub.

Understanding ADHD - the Open University offers a free short course on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). More info here.

Your coaching partner - Morwenna Stewart is someone we know who is very genuine and ethical. She happens to be autistic and has ADHD. She provides a number of paid services, but sometimes offers free weekly online neuro meditation sessions on the Linked In platform. 

25. TRAVEL

Community transport - contact Chippenham Link if you cannot get to a medical appointment by public transport or do not qualify for hospital transport. If their volunteer drivers have capacity, they will also consider requests for non-medical journeys, for example, to a support group. Donations are requested for each journey. Phone: 01249 461881.

Travel training - Wiltshire Council has some films about this on You Tube. You can find out about all aspects of local travel support here.

26. USEFUL CONTACTS IN CHIPPENHAM AND WILTSHIRE

Chippenham Community Hub - advice on fraud and information about local community groups and all things Chippenham. Advice on identifying and reporting scams can be found here.

One Chippenham - local website for information about community groups and related events. It hosts the Chippenham Activity Finder.

Wiltshire Together - for information on volunteer opportunities and more.

Contact your MP - Chippenham's MP can be contacted by email: sarah.gibson.mp@parliament.uk 

Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) - Citizens Advice can provide advice on a wide range of issues, such as landlord problems or debt. There is no drop-in service in Chippenham, you need to make an appointment. Tel: 0808 278 7995 or see their website for other ways to contact them.

27. VOTING IN ELECTIONS

Voting in local and national elections - it is a myth that you cannot vote if you are detained under the Mental Health Act or because you lack capacity to make your own decisions. Every UK citizen has the right to vote, so make sure you do not miss out - see the Electoral Commission's website to check your eligibility. Don't forget that you will need photo ID on the day too.

28. WELFARE BENEFITS

Mental Health and welfare benefits - CPAG have produced a comprehensive handbook. We can help you find the bits relevant to you if need be.

Universal credit helpline - 0800 328 5644

Claiming PIP (Personal Independence Payment) - the National Austistic Society has information on this for autistic people. It may also be helpful for anyone who is not making a claim solely for a physical disability.

29. WOMEN’S ISSUES

Menopause and mental health - top tips from Mind.

30. YOUNG PEOPLE

Young carers - you are a young carer if you:

• help to care for someone in your family with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem.
• are under 18 years old.

If this is you or someone you know, check out this local website for advice and support.

Check out the other sections of this list too, as some may be relevant to young people, especially Apps and Games.