A sad farewell from Anchor Counselling, unless you can help...

Anchor Counselling is a local charity providing free short-term counselling and support groups for West London adults. We also partner with Hammersmith & Fulham Foodbank supporting their clients through difficult times. You can refer yourself via our website: www.anchorcounselling.org/donations

We see a significant gap in local mental health support. Currently, we hear that many people in Hounslow are waiting months for help - or being turned away.

They are turning to us. Unless we secure a sponsor, benefactor, or additional funding now, Anchor Counselling will be forced to close - at a time when demand is higher than ever, with economic pressures adding to the crisis. For over a decade, we partnered with West London NHS Trust, as the key provider of free ‘NHS’ counselling to over 1,000 Hounslow residents annually - with waiting times of just 2–4 weeks. In 2023, the NHS Hounslow contract was awarded to Connect Health Ltd, a profitable private company.

Caring for your mental wellbeing in challenging times

Feelings of low mood, isolation, and stress can arise at any time but may linger after the colder, darker months. As we move into spring, it’s important to take proactive steps to reconnect, re-energise, and break the cycle.

Share and Connect with Others

Engaging in face-to-face interactions— whether meeting a friend for coffee, going for a walk, or joining group activities—can significantly boost mood and reduce loneliness.

Engage in Physical Activity

Exercise, even in small amounts, helps release endorphins, improving mood and energy. Activities like walking, yoga, or joining a local sports group can be beneficial Hounslow has many parks and green spaces, which provide a natural way to reset breathing and ease anxiety.

Find your nearest green space here: www.hounslow.gov.uk/info/20168/parks Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation

Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and journaling can help manage stress and anxiety. Even dedicating a few

Please share this urgent appeal with anyone who may be able to help. Donations are also welcome via our website: www.anchorcounselling.org/donations

Thank you, Jacqueline McCouat CEO, Anchor Counselling minutes a day to these practices can make a difference. Free apps are available to support mindfulness habits.

Seek Professional Support

If you’re struggling, reaching out for professional support is essential. In Hounslow, several resources are available:

• Single Point of Access (SPA) NHS Helpline –Available 24/7 at 0800 328 4444, offering referrals and guidance to mental health services.

• Hammersmith, Fulham, Ealing, and Hounslow Mind – Provides a range of mental health support services.

Visit: hfehmind.org.uk or

• The Samaritans – Free, confidential support available anytime. Call 116 123.

Seeking help is a sign of strength. Taking the first step can make all the difference in navigating well-being challenges and maintaining good health.

Take the first step. You are not alone.