Sources of support
As you study Why riot? Community, choices, aspirations, please be aware that the course contains a broad range of material relating to the experience of life in local communities in situations of conflict. It also addresses decision making around protesting and rioting and includes some opportunities for personal reflection on choices, identity and values. For some course participants, aspects of the content may be sensitive or ‘triggering’ in nature, with the potential to cause emotional distress, particularly if it resonates with negative personal experiences, or the experiences of others known to you.
If you notice a negative emotional reaction to aspects of the course materials, leading to you feeling low or anxious, you may wish to step away from the materials, to reflect and to think about whether to continue at this time. Although feeling distress can be unpleasant, we are also naturally curious about the experiences of others who may have been in similar situations at some point in their life and continuing with your learning may be beneficial in helping you to develop a better understanding of the situations you were in and of the decisions you took. If you experience an ongoing impact on your sense of wellbeing, you might consider seeking support from a trusted person, or seeking help through counselling, or from your own GP (doctor).
If you are based in the UK and feel you need any professional help to deal with the issues this course discusses, these agencies will be pleased to offer advice. Many of these resources are available not only in England and Wales but also in Scotland and Northern Ireland. There is also a list with additional/specific services for Northern Ireland/Scotland below.
Helplines and online support: England and Wales
Mind – Details of local Minds, other local services, and Mind’s Legal Advice Line.
- 0300 123 3393 (Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm)
- http://mind.org.uk/ [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]
- https://sidebyside.mind.org.uk/ A friendly, supportive online community for people experiencing a mental health problem
Samaritans – 24-hour emotional support for anyone struggling to cope.
- 24-hour Freephone helpline: 116 123
- Email: jo@samaritans.org
- https://www.samaritans.org/
Childline – The UK’s free, 24-hour helpline for children and young people (up to age 18).
- https://www.childline.org.uk/
- 24-hour Freephone helpline: 0800 1111 (telephone number will not show up on your phone bill)
Counselling (in person or online)
Counselling can sometimes be accessed by contacting your GP, or you may opt to see a counsellor in private practice. Details of counsellors working in private practice across all areas across the UK can be found here:
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy – BACP is a membership body for counsellors and therapists. They provide information on different types of therapy, and you can search for a therapist by area.
- https://www.bacp.co.uk/
- Counselling Directory – connects you with professional counsellors and therapists near you to help you find the help you need.
Northern Ireland
- In Northern Ireland, the main 24 hour telephone support is: https://www.lifelinehelpline.info/
- This is a directory of services in Northern Ireland relating to a wide range of issues: https://www.mindingyourhead.info/
- This website provides phone numbers and information about helplines in Northern Ireland: https://www.helplinesnetworkni.com/
- For people affected by the Troubles/Conflict in Northern Ireland (including rioting): Wave Trauma Centre
Scotland
SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health) provide local services in addition to information about mental ill health and signposting to other organisations.
- Phone: 0141 530 1000
- https://www.samh.org.uk/
Breathing Space - Breathing Space is a free and confidential phoneline service for any individual who is experiencing low mood or depression.
- Helpline: 0800 83 85 87