Extra support & useful links
At Out And About North East CIC, we are a peer-support community. This means we offer friendship, social activities, and a listening ear—but we are not medical professionals.
If you are going through a tough time, we will always listen, but sometimes you might need more specialised support. We have gathered this list of amazing local charities, CICs, and groups in the North East who might be able to help.
Finding The Right Support In The North East
We believe that when it comes to mental health, you can never have too much support. This page is designed to help you navigate the amazing range of resources available in our region. Whether you need immediate crisis help, specialist wellbeing services, or just a different kind of community connection, you’ll find options here. Remember, Out And About is always here! but we believe in showing you everything that is out there because the more support you have, the better.
There is a network of incredible South Tyneside organizations dedicated to mental health and community wellbeing. From The Red Bench Project's suicide prevention initiatives and Bede's Helping Hands community support, to peer-led groups like Jarrow Mindset, A Step Forward (Men's group), and Chilln N Spilln (Women's group), there is a safe space for everyone.
Whether you need a walking buddy, a coffee morning chat, or professional anxiety support from Help 4 You CIO, our community is here to ensure no one has to struggle alone.
Find Support on Facebook
These groups are very active on social media. To check their latest meeting times, join their communities, or reach out directly, simply search for them on Facebook:
Immediate Crisis Support
Samaritans
Call 116 123 (listening service)
South tyneside crisis team
Call 0800 652 2863 (urgent medical mental health support)
Shout
Text "SHOUT" to 85258 (text-based support)
NHS
Call 111 (non-emergency medical advice)
Local Community
The Red Bench Project
Focus: Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Awareness
Mission: To help people get through tough times by providing visible, safe spaces to reflect. Their goal is to remind people that "things WILL get better" and to encourage strangers to reach out to one another.
Key Concept: The "Red Bench" acts as a silent cry for help or a safe place for reflection. If you see someone sitting alone on a Red Bench, it is a signal to check in on them.
Activities:
Installing distinctive red benches in public spaces (e.g., promenades, parks).
Providing immediate visual reminders of support availability.
Location: South Tyneside (one notable bench is near the Minchella’s Kiosk at the Sand Dancer car park).
Website: theredbenchproject.co.uk find them on facebook!
Jarrow Mindset
Where: 78 Ellison Street, Jarrow. A fantastic drop-in and right in the heart of Jarrow offering advice and a safe space.They have different groups on throughout the week
Focus: Peer-Led Mental Health Support
Mission: A mental health organization run entirely by individuals with their own lived experience of mental health struggles.
Key Philosophy: Reducing stigma by showing that struggling is normal and that support is best given by those who understand the journey personally.
Target Audience: General public in the Jarrow/South Tyneside area looking for relatable, non-clinical support.
Bede's Helping Hands Food Bank K.A.V.S.
Focus: Food Security & Community Support
Mission: "More than just a food bank." While their primary function is food provision, the "K.A.V.S." (King's Award for Voluntary Service) indicates they are a highly recognized voluntary group providing holistic community care.
Location: Former Primrose Library, Glasgow Road, Scotch Estate, Jarrow, NE32 4AU.
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri, 10am - 2pm.
Contact: 0191 8163021
Affiliations: They work alongside other agencies (visible logos include South Tyneside Council, "Nearby," and others).
Men's mental health & social groups
Andy’s Man Club
When: Every Monday at 7pm (excluding Bank Holidays). Where: Locations include Souter Lighthouse (Sunderland) and the Fans Museum. The vibe: "it’s okay to talk." No referral needed, just pop along for a cuppa and a chat with other lads.
WHiST (women’s health in south tyneside)
Where: South Shields. A safe, supportive space for women aged 16+ offering counselling, courses, and listening support.
Walking For Wellbeing
Free, friendly walks organised by South Tyneside Libraries (departing from Jarrow Focus, The Word, and others). A great low-pressure way to meet people.
Chillin N Spillin
local womans group.
Focus: Women’s Mental Health
Mission: A friendly, supportive space for women to get together, chat, and support one another through mental health challenges.
Key Activities:
Coffee Mornings: Wednesdays.
Walking Groups: "Strolls" held on Thursday evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Socials: Group chats, weekly games, and other social activities.
Target Audience: Women seeking a supportive community
find them on facebook!
Help 4 You CIO ("The Stress & Anxiety Support Charity
Help 4 You CIO
Supporting Minds & Changing Lives
Help 4 You CIO is a stress and anxiety support charity dedicated to preserving and protecting good physical and mental health. They provide vital lifelines for those suffering from anxiety, stress, and PTSD by offering:
Funded Support: Fundraising to provide free access to mental health resources.
Therapeutic Access: Connecting individuals with counselling and therapeutic interventions.
Community: Organising recreational activities that foster connection and alleviate isolation.
A Step Forward
Focus: Men’s Mental Health
Mission: A group run "by Men for Men" to support those struggling with mental health issues (past or present). They aim to use shared experiences to help others move towards a "better you."
Key Activities:
Weekly Walks: A core activity to encourage talking while walking.
Meeting Point: Often at The Red Bench Project site (opposite Minchella’s Kiosk, Sand Dancer car park).
Schedule: (As seen in image) Saturdays at 10am, Tuesdays at 6pm.
Target Audience: Men in South Tyneside.
AutismAble
Where: South Shields (Sea Winnings Way). A wellbeing centre for neurodivergent people focusing on employment, socialising, and independence.
Still can't find what you need?
Just ask us at the next drop-in! We are happy to help you search for the right number or print off a leaflet. You don't have to do it alone.
Your Voice Counts
Focus: Advocacy for Learning Disabilities & Mental Health
Mission: A charity empowering people with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health challenges to have a stronger voice and control over their lives. They ensure that vulnerable people are heard and their rights are upheld.
Key Activities:
Equal People: A self-advocacy group in South Tyneside (meeting in Jarrow) where members speak up about local services.
Social Drop-ins: Friendly groups (like the Boldon drop-in) to make friends and take part in activities.
Target Audience: Adults with learning disabilities, autism, or mental health needs who want to be heard.
Advocacy: Helping individuals navigate complex health and social care decisions.
You're not alone
We hope this page has provided you with valuable resources and shown you that a wealth of support is available in the North East. You don't have to face challenges by yourself. Reach out to the listed organisations for specialised help, or connect with us at Out And About North East CIC for peer support and friendship.