Global Major Cities Guide

Resources related to mental health support, counselling, and wellbeing programs available in Leeds.

Sections

1. Overview of Mental Health and Wellbeing Services in Leeds

Leeds has a well-established network of mental health services, including:

NHS Services: Free mental health care for UK residents, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric support.
Community and Voluntary Sector: Charities and local organizations offering free or low-cost support.
Private Services: Paid options for faster access to therapy or specialized care.
University and Student Support: Dedicated services for students at institutions like the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University.

2. Categories of Support

Here are the main types of mental health and wellbeing services available in Leeds:

a. Counseling and Talking Therapies

IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies):
- Provided by the NHS, this service offers free access to talking therapies for common mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress.
- How to Access: Self-refer online via the Leeds IAPT website or ask your GP for a referral.
- Website: Leeds IAPT
- Cost: Free.
- Eligibility: Open to anyone registered with a GP in Leeds.
Charity-Run Counseling Services:
- Leeds Mind: Offers low-cost counseling and group therapy sessions.
  - Cost: Sliding scale based on income, starting at around £10 per session.
  - Website: Leeds Mind
- Northpoint Wellbeing: Provides affordable counseling for individuals, couples, and families.
  - Cost: Typically £10–£50 per session, depending on circumstances.
  - Website: Northpoint Wellbeing

b. Crisis Intervention

Leeds Crisis Assessment Service (CAS):
- A 24/7 NHS service for individuals in immediate mental health crisis.
- How to Access: Call 0800 183 1485 for urgent support.
- Cost: Free.
- Eligibility: Open to anyone in Leeds experiencing a mental health crisis.
Connect Helpline:
- A confidential helpline for people in crisis, available 6 PM–2 AM every day.
- Phone: 0808 800 1212.
- Cost: Free.
Samaritans Leeds:
- A 24/7 helpline for anyone feeling distressed or suicidal.
- Phone: 116 123.
- Cost: Free.

c. Community Programs and Peer Support

Touchstone:
- A charity offering culturally sensitive mental health support, particularly for BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) communities.
- Services include peer support groups, wellbeing workshops, and advocacy.
- Website: Touchstone
- Cost: Free or low-cost.
Leeds Recovery College:
- Provides free courses and workshops to help individuals manage their mental health and build resilience.
- Website: Leeds Recovery College
- Cost: Free.
MindWell Leeds:
- A comprehensive online resource hub for mental health services and self-help tools in Leeds.
- Website: MindWell Leeds
- Cost: Free.

d. Specialist Services

Leeds Autism AIM:
- Support for autistic adults, including mental health services tailored to their needs.
- Website: Leeds Autism AIM
- Cost: Free.
Forward Leeds:
- Support for individuals struggling with substance misuse and its impact on mental health.
- Website: Forward Leeds
- Cost: Free.

e. Student Mental Health Services

University of Leeds:
- Offers free counseling, mental health advisors, and wellbeing workshops for students.
- Website: University of Leeds Wellbeing
- Cost: Free for enrolled students.
Leeds Beckett University:
- Provides free mental health support, including counseling and group therapy.
- Website: Leeds Beckett Wellbeing
- Cost: Free for enrolled students.

3. Costs and Free/Low-Cost Options

NHS Services: Free for anyone registered with a GP in Leeds.
Charity Services: Often free or low-cost, with fees based on income.
Private Therapy: Costs range from £40–£100 per session, depending on the therapist and specialization.

4. How to Access Services

Step 1: Register with a GP

To access NHS mental health services, you must be registered with a General Practitioner (GP) in Leeds.
How to Register: Find a local GP practice via the NHS website (Find a GP) and complete their registration process.

Step 2: Self-Refer or Get a GP Referral

Many services, such as IAPT, allow self-referral online or by phone.
For more complex needs, your GP can refer you to specialist services.

Step 3: Explore Community and Charity Options

Contact organizations like Leeds Mind, Touchstone, or Northpoint Wellbeing directly to inquire about their services.

Step 4: Use Helplines for Immediate Support

If you’re in crisis, call the Leeds Crisis Assessment Service or Samaritans for immediate help.

5. Local Considerations and Cultural Aspects

Diversity and Inclusion: Leeds is a multicultural city, and many services, such as Touchstone, cater specifically to the needs of diverse communities.
Language Support: Some organizations offer services in multiple languages or provide interpreters.
Student-Friendly City: With a large student population, Leeds has robust mental health support tailored to young adults.
Community Spirit: Leeds has a strong sense of community, and many local groups and charities provide peer support and social activities to combat loneliness.

6. Additional Resources

MindWell Leeds: A one-stop shop for mental health resources in Leeds.
Leeds Directory: A searchable database of health and wellbeing services in the city (Leeds Directory).

7. Practical Tips for Newcomers

Start with Your GP: Registering with a GP is the gateway to most NHS services.
Be Proactive: Waiting times for NHS services can be long, so consider charity or private options if you need quicker support.
Engage with the Community: Joining local groups or workshops can help you build a support network and improve your wellbeing.

Leeds offers a wealth of mental health and wellbeing services, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or financial situation, can access the support they need. By following the steps above, you can navigate the system effectively and find the right help for your needs.