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Free Support Services in Barking and Dagenham

Find local support services, community help and events in Barking and Dagenham, Greater London.

Local services

Barking & Dagenham Mental Health & Wellness Teams

Specialist mental health services for adults with serious mental health problems

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Referral needed

Barking parkrun

A free, friendly 5k run every Saturday morning at Barking Park — walk, jog, run or volunteer at your own pace.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Barking Learning Centre Community and Family Hub

A community hub in Barking town centre offering a library, Citizens Advice, nursery, adult learning, housing support, and more.

Money & Debt
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Dagenham Library and Family Hub

A combined library and family hub in Dagenham offering community resources, support services, and family activities.

Family & Parenting
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Chadwell Heath and Whalebone Community Hub

A community hub in Chadwell Heath offering local services and support for Barking and Dagenham residents.

Benefits & Cost of Living
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Marks Gate Community and Family Hub

A community and family hub in Marks Gate offering local services and support for Barking and Dagenham residents.

Family & Parenting
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Thames Community Hub

Community hub offering library services, activities, and local support in Barking

Children & Young People
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Village Community Hub

Community hub offering family support, sensory activities, and health clinics in Dagenham

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Parsloes Community Hub at Kingsley Hall

Multi-purpose community hub offering nursery, church, food support, and community activities in Dagenham

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Cost of Living Support (Barking & Dagenham Council)

Council-wide support service connecting residents to help with money, food, energy, wellbeing, and employment

Benefits & Cost of Living
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Housing Advice Service (Barking & Dagenham Council)

Council housing advice and homelessness prevention service offering guidance, temporary accommodation, and housing options support

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Marks Gate Community Food Club

Weekly community food club in Marks Gate

Food Support
Barking and Dagenham
Cost varies
Self-refer

B&D Works

Free council employment support service helping residents find work, improve skills and widen job options

Employment & Skills
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Homes and Money Hubs

Caseworker support for residents with debt, arrears, benefit issues and wider financial hardship.

Money & Debt
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Referral needed

Carers of Barking and Dagenham

Advice, information and support for people caring for family members or loved ones

Benefits & Cost of Living
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Young Carers Support

Support, activities and advice for young people aged 8-18 who care for family members

Family & Parenting
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Family Information Service

Free advice and information on childcare, activities and family support

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Barking and Dagenham SENDIASS

Free, impartial advice and support for families with special educational needs

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Children and Young People Disability Hub (CYPD Hub)

Inclusive support, activities and early help for families with disabled children

Family & Parenting
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Barking and Dagenham Citizens Advice Bureau

Free, independent advice on benefits, debt, housing, employment and consumer rights

Money & Debt
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Community Warm Spaces

Free warm spaces across the borough where you can stay warm, socialise, and access refreshments

Older People
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Psychology, Mood, Anxiety and Personality Care Pathway

Specialist outpatient psychological therapy service for adults with moderate to severe mental health problems

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Referral needed

Talking Therapies – Barking and Dagenham

NHS primary mental health service offering talking therapies including CBT, counselling, and guided self-help

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Older Adult Mental Health and Memory Service

Specialist mental health and memory service for older adults aged 65+ and dementia support including Admiral Nurse care

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Referral needed

Home Treatment Team (HTT)

24/7 acute mental health crisis service providing emergency home-based treatment to prevent hospital admission

Benefits & Cost of Living
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Referral needed

Barking and Dagenham CAMHS

NHS mental health support for children and young people in Barking and Dagenham, from birth to 18.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Referral needed

Barking and Dagenham Mental Health Support Team (MHST)

NHS mental health support for children and young people in Barking and Dagenham schools, helping with anxiety, low mood and wellbeing.

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Referral needed

Ab Phab Youth Club

Inclusive youth club for disabled and non-disabled young people aged 11–25 in Barking and Dagenham.

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Cost varies
Self-refer

Peer Support Group (PSG) Youth Club

A peer-led youth group for young people aged 11–25 in Barking and Dagenham, supporting those affected by mental health issues through workshops and peer support.

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

The Source Wellbeing Centre (Barking Churches Unite)

A welcoming drop-in wellbeing centre in Barking town centre offering practical help, advice, activities and free refreshments to anyone who needs support.

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Free Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme – Barking and Dagenham

Free holiday clubs with healthy meals and fun activities for children aged 5–16 who receive benefit-related free school meals.

Food Support
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Barking Learning Centre – Poetry Group

A fortnightly poetry group meeting every other Wednesday at Barking Learning Centre, open to all.

Free Activities
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Barking Learning Centre – Basic IT / Computer Sessions

Free drop-in basic IT and computer sessions at Barking Learning Centre, run on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays.

Employment & Skills
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Thames Community Hub – Community Warm Space

A welcoming warm space at Thames Community Hub in Barking, open Monday to Friday with free activities, tea, crafts and conversation.

Free Activities
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Thames Community Hub – Clothes and Toy Bank

Free clothes and toy donations available at Thames Community Hub in Barking for families who need them.

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Thames Community Hub – Make Do & Mend / Upcycling and Crafts (Shed Life)

Free weekly Make Do & Mend upcycling and crafts sessions every Tuesday at Thames Community Hub in Barking, run by Shed Life.

Employment & Skills
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Barking junior parkrun

A free, fun 2k run every Sunday morning at Barking Park for children aged 4–14 and their families.

Children & Young People
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Free Tennis Open Days – Barking and Dagenham

Free tennis taster sessions for all ages and abilities at Barking Park and Central Park, organised by Barking and Dagenham Council.

Free Activities
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Dagenham Learning Centre – Community Warm Space

A free Community Warm Space open Monday to Friday at Dagenham Learning Centre, with tea, activities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Benefits & Cost of Living
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Village Community Hub – Coffee Morning

A free weekly coffee morning every Tuesday at Village Community Hub in Dagenham — come for a cup of tea and a natter.

Community Projects
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Village Community Hub – Stay and Play

Free Stay and Play sessions for babies, toddlers and their parents at Village Community Hub in Dagenham.

Housing & Homelessness
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Village Community Hub – Community Warm Space

A free Community Warm Space at Village Community Hub in Dagenham, open to all during the week.

Free Activities
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

National Year of Reading 2026 – Barking and Dagenham Libraries

A UK-wide reading campaign with a range of free local events and activities at Barking and Dagenham libraries throughout 2026.

Family & Parenting
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Health and Wellbeing Pop-Up Events – LBBD

Free drop-in health and wellbeing pop-up events at Barking and Dagenham libraries and hubs, offering NHS health checks, advice and community support.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Celebrating Faith and Health in Barking and Dagenham

An annual event bringing together faith leaders, health professionals and community partners to tackle health inequalities in Barking and Dagenham.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Wild and Free in LBBD – Ranger Service Nature Activities

Free outdoor nature activities for families in Barking and Dagenham’s parks, run by the LBBD Ranger Service and TinderSticks throughout the year.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Free
Self-refer

Barking Foodbank (Trussell Trust)

Emergency food supplies for local people in crisis.

Food Support
Barking and Dagenham
Borough-wide service
Free
Referral needed

Citizens Advice Barking and Dagenham

Free, confidential advice on debt, benefits, housing, and legal issues.

Benefits & Cost of Living
Barking and Dagenham
Borough-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Al Madina Mosque Community Food Club

Weekly food support and community kitchen sessions open to all.

Food Support
Barking and Dagenham
Borough-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Humdum Community Kitchen

Freshly prepared hot meals and food support for those facing hardship.

Food Support
Barking and Dagenham
Borough-wide service
Free
Self-refer

DABD Welfare and Benefits Advice

Expert support with benefits, financial independence, and disability equipment.

Benefits & Cost of Living
Barking and Dagenham
Borough-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Mind Havering, Barking and Dagenham

Local mental health support including advice, advocacy, and peer support groups.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Borough-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Barking and Dagenham Citizens Advice

Free, confidential advice on debt, benefits, housing, and legal issues.

Money & Debt
Barking and Dagenham
Borough-wide service
Free
Self-refer

NELFT Barking & Dagenham Talking Therapies

Free NHS psychological support for common mental health issues.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking and Dagenham
Borough-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Barking Foodbank

Providing emergency food parcels to local people in crisis.

Food Support
Barking and Dagenham
Borough-wide service
Free
Referral needed

DABD (Disabled Association Barking and Dagenham)

Comprehensive support for people with disabilities and long-term conditions.

Disability & SEN
Barking and Dagenham
Borough-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Region and county-wide services

Wider area support that still applies in Barking and Dagenham, including services set at region or county level.

Brent Hubs

Multi-agency hubs offering support with benefits, debt, and housing.

Benefits & Cost of Living
London
Region-wide service
Free
Self-refer

West London Welcome

Community centre for refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants.

Community Projects
London
Region-wide service
Free
Self-refer

London Citizens Advice

Free, confidential advice on debt, benefits, housing, and legal issues across London.

Money & Debt
Greater London
Free
Self-refer

H&F Cost-of-Living Support Team

Dedicated council team providing guidance on energy bills, food, and financial aid.

Benefits & Cost of Living
London
Region-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Good Thinking London Wellbeing

NHS-supported digital platform providing free mental health tools for all Londoners.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Greater London
Free
Self-refer

SHINE (Seasonal Health Intervention Network)

Energy advice and support to tackle fuel poverty and utility debt.

Benefits & Cost of Living
London
Region-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Sycamore Trust Autism Support

Support for individuals and families affected by Autism and learning disabilities.

Disability & SEN
London
Region-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Glass Door Homeless Casework

Advocacy and practical help to find pathways out of homelessness.

Housing & Homelessness
London
Region-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Bromley, Lewisham and Greenwich Mind

Counselling, advocacy, and specialized mental health support for Lewisham residents.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
London
Region-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Safe Space (HFEH Mind)

An out-of-hours mental health crisis support service for local residents.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
London
Region-wide service
Free
Self-refer

England-wide services

Available across United Kingdom. These appear on local child pages because they serve people throughout United Kingdom.

Working Well Trust Employment Support

Specialist support for people with mental health challenges or neurodiversity on their employment journey.

Employment & Skills
England
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Family Hubs

A 'one-stop shop' for families to access a wide range of support and information.

Family & Parenting
England
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Citizens Advice Nottingham & Nottinghamshire

Free and confidential advice on debt, benefits, housing, and legal rights.

Money & Debt
England
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Wellbeing Lincs

Regional support service helping people navigate life changes and stay independent.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
England
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

The Bridge East Midlands

Comprehensive housing and mental health support for vulnerable individuals in Leicestershire.

Housing & Homelessness
England
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Mind in Berkshire

Free mental health and wellbeing support across Berkshire

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Berkshire
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Talking Therapies Berkshire NHS

Free NHS talking therapies for anxiety, depression, stress and low mood

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Berkshire
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Berkshire Healthcare Children and Young People Mental Health Service

Mental health support and signposting for children and young people in Berkshire

Children & Young People
Berkshire
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Tellmi Berkshire

Free anonymous online mental health support for young people

Children & Young People
Berkshire
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Berkshire Women's Aid

Free confidential domestic abuse support, advocacy and refuge accommodation

Domestic Abuse
Berkshire
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

DASH — Domestic Abuse Stops Here

Domestic abuse support, including help with legal options, court support and safety planning

Domestic Abuse
Windsor
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Victim Support Berkshire

Free emotional and practical support for people affected by crime

Crisis Support
Berkshire
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Age UK Berkshire Information and Advice

Free independent advice for people aged 50+, families and carers

Older People
Berkshire
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Age UK Berkshire Carers Support

Support, information and advice for unpaid carers

Carers Support
Berkshire
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Reading & West Berkshire Carers Hub

Advice, information and support for unpaid carers

Carers Support
Reading
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Berkshire Sensory Consortium Service

Support for children and young people with hearing, vision or multi-sensory needs

Disability & SEN
Berkshire
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

StreetLink

Lets the public alert outreach services when someone is sleeping rough.

Housing & Homelessness
England
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

National Centre for Domestic Violence

Free emergency legal protection for survivors of domestic abuse regardless of financial status.

Domestic Abuse
England
England-wide service
Free
Self-refer

National services

Available across the UK. These are shown separately and are not counted as local Barking and Dagenham services.

StepChange Debt Charity

Free national debt advice, personalised debt help and fee-free debt management support.

Money & Debt
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Mental Health Support

24/7 urgent mental health support and crisis line

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Barking & Dagenham
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Universal Credit

Monthly payment to help with living costs if you are on a low income or out of work.

Benefits & Cost of Living
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Emergency Services — 999

Call 999 immediately in a life-threatening emergency — police, fire, ambulance or coastguard.

Crisis Support
London
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Single Homeless Project (SHP)

Single Homeless Project (SHP) offers housing and homelessness across the UK.

Housing & Homelessness
UK-wide service
Free
Referral needed

KIDS

Support for disabled children, young people and their families.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Contact

National charity supporting families with disabled children.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Mobilise

Online support community and practical help for unpaid carers.

Carers Support
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Carers UK

National advice, information and support for unpaid carers.

Carers Support
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Derman

Derman offers mental health and wellbeing across the UK.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Toynbee Hall

Toynbee Hall offers community projects across the UK.

Community Projects
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Open Age

Open Age offers mental health and wellbeing across the UK.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Pension Credit

Extra money to help with living costs if you are over State Pension age and on a low income.

Benefits & Cost of Living
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Attendance Allowance

Help with extra costs if you are State Pension age or older and need help because of illness or disability.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Carer’s Allowance

Weekly benefit for people who care for someone for at least 35 hours a week.

Carers Support
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Benefit to help with extra living costs if you have a long-term disability or health condition.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Child Benefit

Payment to help with the cost of bringing up a child.

Family & Parenting
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Healthy Start

NHS scheme helping eligible pregnant people and families with young children buy healthy food and milk.

Family & Parenting
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Free School Meals

Help with school meal costs for eligible children in England.

Children & Young People
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Ambitious About Autism

National charity supporting autistic children and young people through education, programmes and advice.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Autism Central

National peer education programme helping families and carers understand autism and advocate for autistic people.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

British Dyslexia Association

National advice, information and support for people with dyslexia, families and professionals.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

National Deaf Children’s Society

National charity supporting deaf children, young people and their families across the UK.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

British Deaf Association (BDA)

National Deaf-led organisation representing Deaf people who use BSL in the UK.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

STAMMA

National advice, information and support for people who stammer and their families.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Autistic Girls Network

National support and information focused on better recognition and understanding of autistic girls.

Disability & SEN
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Citizens Advice

Free, confidential advice on money, benefits, housing, work and everyday problems.

Money & Debt
United Kingdom
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

National Debtline

Free debt advice and practical tools for people in England, Wales and Scotland.

Money & Debt
United Kingdom
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Mind

Mental health information, support and signposting across England and Wales.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
United Kingdom
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

National Careers Service

Free government careers advice and guidance service for anyone aged 13+ in England.

Employment & Skills
West Sussex
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

SMART Recovery

A self-help peer support programme for recovery from all types of addiction using science-based tools.

Health Support
West Sussex
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Macmillan Cancer Support

Free information, emotional and practical support for people affected by cancer.

Health Support
West Sussex
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Shelter Cymru Housing Advice

Expert, independent advice for anyone in Wales facing housing problems or homelessness.

Housing & Homelessness
Wales
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Live Fear Free Helpline (Welsh Women's Aid)

A 24/7 helpline for anyone in Wales experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence, or other forms of violence.

Domestic Abuse
Wales
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Age Cymru Advice Line

Information and advice for older people, their families, and carers in Wales.

Older People
Wales
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

NHS Social Care and Support Guide

Official guide to help with day-to-day living due to illness or disability.

Health Support
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Childline

A free, private and confidential service for children and young people up to the age of 19.

Children & Young People
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Crisis

National charity for people experiencing homelessness, providing education and housing advice.

Housing & Homelessness
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Scope Helpline

Free, independent and impartial advice and support on issues that matter to disabled people.

Disability & SEN
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Age UK Advice Line

A free, confidential national telephone service for older people, their families, and carers.

Older People
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

The Mix

Essential support for under 25s on everything from mental health and relationships to money and housing.

Children & Young People
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

YoungMinds

Mental health support for children, young people, and advice for their parents.

Children & Young People
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Citizens Advice Adviceline (England)

Free, confidential, and impartial advice on money, legal rights, and consumer issues.

Benefits & Cost of Living
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Homeless Link (Homeless England)

A comprehensive database to find local homelessness services across England.

Housing & Homelessness
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Anxiety UK Support Services

Specialist support, therapy, and advice for those living with anxiety and anxiety-based depression.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Centrepoint Youth Support

Housing advice and support for young people aged 16-25 at risk of homelessness.

Housing & Homelessness
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Crisis UK

National charity providing practical support to help people exit homelessness.

Housing & Homelessness
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Home-Start UK

Practical and emotional support for families with at least one child under five.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Independent Age Helpline

Free advice and support for older people facing financial hardship or needing help with care.

Older People
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

FoodCycle

Free weekly community meals made from surplus food for anyone in need of food or company.

Food Support
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

FareShare

Fighting hunger by redistributing surplus food to frontline charities.

Food Support
England
UK-wide service
Free
Referral needed

Action for Children

Practical and emotional support for children, young people, and families.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Coram Family Lives Support Line

Free, confidential helpline for any aspect of parenting and family life.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Parent Talk

Online support and advice for parents and carers from expert coaches.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Scope - Disability Information and Advice

Free, independent and impartial information and support for disabled people.

Disability & SEN
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

NHS Healthy Start

Help to buy healthy food and milk for pregnant women and families with young children.

Food Support
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Independent Age Support

Support for older people to live with independence and dignity.

Older People
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Age UK

A free national advice line and local services supporting older people with money, care, and loneliness.

Older People
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Gingerbread

Specialist advice and community support for single parent families.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

NHS 111 Online

Get urgent medical help or advice online for non-life-threatening conditions.

Health Support
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Refuge National Domestic Abuse Helpline

A 24-hour freephone helpline for women and children experiencing domestic abuse.

Domestic Abuse
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Action for Children Parent Talk

Free and confidential live chat and advice for parents and carers of children.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Feeding Britain: Affordable Food Clubs

A national network of community food clubs offering low-cost groceries and support.

Food Support
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Shaw Trust: Employment Support

Specialist support to help people with disabilities or health conditions find and keep work.

Employment & Skills
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Gingerbread Single Parent Helpline

Expert advice and practical support for single parent families.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

FareShare Food Support

Connecting surplus food to community groups and charities to tackle hunger.

Food Support
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Samaritans Listening Service

24/7 confidential support for anyone experiencing distress or needing to talk.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

National Domestic Abuse Helpline

A 24-hour freephone helpline for women experiencing domestic abuse.

Domestic Abuse
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Help through Hardship Helpline

A free, confidential helpline providing support for those struggling to afford essentials.

Benefits & Cost of Living
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Family Action - FamilyLine

Free emotional support and practical guidance for adults on any aspect of family life.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

StepChange Debt Advice

Free expert debt advice and tailored debt solutions available across the UK.

Money & Debt
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Rethink Mental Illness Advice Service

Expert advice and information for people severely affected by mental illness and their carers.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Parent Talk by Action for Children

Free, confidential advice for parents and carers from trained family support workers.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN)

A network helping people find local independent food banks and support across the UK.

Food Support
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Shout Crisis Text Line

A 24/7 free, confidential text-based support service for anyone in mental health crisis.

Crisis Support
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Crisis Skylight Support

Practical support and training to help people leave homelessness behind for good.

Housing & Homelessness
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Home-Start Family Support

Local volunteers supporting families with young children through difficult times.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

NHS Talking Therapies

Free, confidential NHS treatments for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Turn2us Financial Support

Charity helping people in financial hardship access benefits, grants, and other financial assistance.

Benefits & Cost of Living
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Citizens Advice Bureau

Free, confidential, and independent advice on benefits, debt, and legal issues.

Benefits & Cost of Living
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

St Giles Trust Employment Support

Holistic help to overcome complex barriers and secure stable employment.

Employment & Skills
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Age UK Advice and Support

Free, confidential information and advice for older people on money, care, and housing.

Older People
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

NHS Every Mind Matters

Expert NHS advice and practical tools to help you look after your mental health.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Family Rights Group Advice Line

Legal and practical advice for families involved with children's social services.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Local Council Crisis and Resilience Fund

Financial help from your local council for essential costs like food, energy, and bills.

Benefits & Cost of Living
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

NHS 111 Mental Health Support

24/7 access to urgent mental health support by calling 111 and selecting the mental health option.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Shout 24/7 Crisis Text Service

A free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone in crisis.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Samaritans - 24/7 Emotional Support

A safe place to talk 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for anyone struggling to cope.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Shelter England Advice Services

Expert advice and legal support for people facing housing issues or homelessness.

Housing & Homelessness
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Citizens Advice National Help

Free, confidential advice on debt, benefits, housing, and legal rights for anyone in England.

Benefits & Cost of Living
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Family Rights Group

Free confidential advice for parents and wider family involved with children’s services or care processes.

Family & Parenting
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Contact — Families with Disabled Children

Advice and support for parents of disabled children.

Disability & SEN
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Grassroots Suicide Prevention

Suicide prevention support, training and signposting resources.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

PayPlan

Free debt advice and repayment support available online and by phone across the UK.

Money & Debt
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

The Silver Line

A free 24/7 helpline offering friendship, conversation and support for older people.

Older People
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Turn2us Grants and Benefits Search

Free tools to check benefits, search for grants and find financial support.

Benefits & Cost of Living
England
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Op FORTITUDE

Free central referral pathway for Armed Forces veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Housing & Homelessness
Northamptonshire
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

The Respite Association

Grants toward appropriately qualified respite care for eligible disabled, sick, elderly or terminally ill people and their unpaid carers.

Carers Support
Northamptonshire
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Family Lives

Free parenting helpline, online chat, email support, parenting courses and information about separation, bullying and family difficulties.

Family & Parenting
Northamptonshire
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Family Fund

Grants for eligible low-income families raising a disabled or seriously ill child, covering items such as appliances, clothing, computers and sensory equipment.

Disability & SEN
Northamptonshire
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Disabled Living Information Service

Free independent-living information and guidance about disability equipment and practical solutions.

Disability & SEN
Northamptonshire
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Disability Law Service

Free legal advice for disabled people and carers concerning community care, discrimination, employment and other disability-rights issues.

Disability & SEN
Northamptonshire
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Disability Grants Directory

Free searchable resource identifying charities and trusts that may fund disability-related equipment, adaptations and other needs.

Disability & SEN
Northamptonshire
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Operation Courage

NHS mental-health support for Armed Forces veterans, reservists, people leaving the military and eligible family members.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
Northamptonshire
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Student Health Association Assistance Fund

Bursaries of up to £500 for eligible disabled students in higher education who have first applied for Disabled Students’ Allowance.

Disability & SEN
Northamptonshire
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Samaritans Nottingham Branch

24/7 confidential emotional support for anyone struggling to cope or in crisis.

Crisis Support
United Kingdom
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Support

Free information, practical advice and telephone support for people affected by dementia and their families.

Older People
United Kingdom
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Citizens Advice Help to Claim

Support for Rutland residents in starting and managing a new Universal Credit claim.

Benefits & Cost of Living
East Midlands
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

MoneyHelper

Free government-backed guidance on debt, budgeting, benefits, pensions, borrowing and managing money.

Money & Debt
East Midlands
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Family Rights Group Advice Service

Free expert legal advice for families involved with children's services or family court.

Family & Parenting
East Midlands
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Working Families Legal Advice

Free advice on employment rights and in-work benefits for parents and carers.

Employment & Skills
East Midlands
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Contact for Families with Disabled Children

Free national advice, information and support for families caring for disabled children or children with additional needs.

Disability & SEN
East Midlands
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

NHS Urgent Mental Health Support

24/7 urgent mental health help available by calling 111 and selecting option 2.

Crisis Support
East Midlands
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Tellmi

Free, anonymous mental health app with peer support for ages 11+ across the UK, with commissioned counselling in selected areas.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

distrACT App

App providing private support and coping strategies for self-harm and suicidal thoughts.

Mental Health & Wellbeing
East Midlands
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Samaritans Emotional Support

Confidential, 24/7 emotional support for anyone struggling to cope or experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Crisis Support
East Midlands
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Men’s Advice Line

Confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse seeking advice and support.

Domestic Abuse
Rutland
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Galop

Specialist support for LGBT+ people experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence, or hate crime.

Domestic Abuse
Rutland
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Victim Support

Independent support for anyone affected by crime, providing emotional and practical help.

Crisis Support
East Midlands
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Veterans’ Gateway

A free first point of contact connecting veterans and families with suitable support around housing, health, money, work and welfare.

Community Projects
Oakham
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Help Through Hardship

Free advice about benefits, grants, income and emergency food by phone.

Benefits & Cost of Living
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Learn My Way – Free Digital Skills for Beginners

Free online beginner-friendly digital skills learning from Good Things Foundation for people across the UK.

Employment & Skills
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

Find Local Digital Inclusion Support

A free UK-wide map from Good Things Foundation to help people find local digital inclusion support.

Employment & Skills
National
UK-wide service
Free
Self-refer

CMS Clarity – Child Maintenance Clarity Check

Free online child maintenance calculator and practical guidance for separated parents.

Family & Parenting
UK-wide service
Free and paid options
Self-refer

Local services

56

Support services currently listed directly in Barking and Dagenham.

Local events

20

Upcoming events and activities happening in Barking and Dagenham.

Categories

16

Different kinds of help currently available around Barking and Dagenham.

Quick answers for Barking and Dagenham

What help can I find here?

You can browse local services, wider-area support, community events and practical guides for Barking and Dagenham on this page.

What if I need urgent help?

If your situation feels urgent, use the urgent help link on this page for crisis support and immediate next steps.

What if there is not enough local help listed yet?

If local listings are still growing in Barking and Dagenham, we also show wider-area and national support so you still have somewhere to turn.

Barking and Dagenham Support Services and Community Help

Barking and Dagenham residents can use this page to find local support services, community help, trusted organisations and practical advice in one place.

Browse local listings first, then explore region-wide, county-wide and England-wide support that is also visible to people in Barking and Dagenham.

If you are not sure where to start, use the search and category filters to narrow down the kind of help you need in Barking and Dagenham.

This page is designed to make it easier to discover support in Barking and Dagenham, including free services, wider area support and practical local help.

Help available in Barking and Dagenham

This page brings together local support services, community help and events for people in Barking and Dagenham, Greater London. You can explore practical help, free activities and trusted organisations in one place.