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After two years of a global pandemic, we’re all now witnessing the horrific scenes in Ukraine following the Russian invasion.
Watching the events unfold is especially hard for people in our North Somerset communities who are from Ukraine, Russia and neighbouring Eastern European nations.
With everything that’s happening, some of us may be feeling anxious, angry, uneasy or low. We’ll all be feeling differently, and that’s ok.
It’s important to feel informed and not overwhelmed. Try and find a way to take in the news that works for you.
See the BBC news website has a round-up of what you can do to help you, yourself and others.
Here is a reminder of some of the help and support available locally:
- online mental wellbeing community Kooth provides free, safe and anonymous support for young people
- OTR is a mental health social movement by and for young people aged 11 to 18
- the NHS Every Mind Matters website has useful tips to help improve your mental health and wellbeing, including building your own mind plan
- not-for-profit organisation We Are Aware is a local group raising awareness about mental health and supporting people through groups and activities
- the Safe Haven Centre in Weston-super-Mare is a safe space for people aged 16 and over in acute emotional distress. People can refer themselves or be referred by a relevant professional such as a GP, police officer, paramedic or social worker. Parents and carers can also contact the centre if they’re worried about a loved one. Call 01934 313 480 or complete the referral form on their website
- Men in Mind is a Portishead-based support group to help men understand and better their psychological and emotional wellbeing
- North Somerset Talk Club UK is a weekly group for men, meeting every Thursday from 6.30pm at Hornets Rugby Club in Weston
- Samaritans are available to listen, 24/7 and they have an email address you can use
- see the website for the mental health charity Mind for more useful information
We’ve also got a round-up of information and links about mental health support on the North Somerset Council website, including tips for self-care.
Support for Ukraine
We stand with the people of Ukraine and everyone affected by the conflict and humanitarian crisis
Thank you to everyone who has been collecting and donating. Sadly, it looks as though aid and support will be needed for some time.
We're working with Voluntary Action North Somerset (VANS) to support local communities to help Ukraine and to help make sure the right aid is available at the right time.
VANS has set up a local Just Giving page to co-ordinate and manage funding and financial donations to support the local Ukrainian Relief response.
There are also a number of national and international organisations which you might like to donate to. Please do check the validity of any organisation you donate to.
We’ve got some useful links to charities, support for Ukrainian nationals, latest government advice and how you can help on our council website.