Help when you need it

Help When You Need It is a confidential, free and friendly service funded by Bristol City Council, to help people over the age of 55 who live within the Bristol local authority boundaries and are in need of support.

We can support you to:

Maintain accommodation/tenancy or secure accommodation

Manage mental health and wellbeing

Self-manage physical health and wellbeing

Maximise income, reduce debts, or find paid work

Prevent loneliness and isolation

Stay safe

Download our leaflet for more information

Download leaflet

How to access the service

All referrals will be followed up by an assessment visit to determine the type of support you will receive. This will vary based on your circumstances, and we will identify outcomes and support you to achieve them. It can be time-limited, but the service aims to provide help when it is needed. If you reach your outcomes but later need further support, you can re-refer.

Referrals can be made by yourself, a relative or a professional. Either complete the referral form online below or download it to print out and return to us by post. If you require further information before you complete the form, please contact us by phone or email.

When we receive your form, you will be contacted by the Service Coordinator to arrange an assessment visit. When we visit, we will confirm whether you are eligible for the service and discuss the level of support you need. Please note that spaces are limited, so you may be placed on a waiting list and prioritised according to your degree of need.

  • Thanks to the Help When You Need It team I’ve been able to stay independent without having to rely so much on family and friends. The team are fantastic, they support me with everything from monetary advice to helping with letters. They’re always just a phone call away and their support means I can truly relax, and feel content while living at Brunelcare.
    Jane, Bristol

Contact us

Call: 0117 428 1274

Email: [email protected]

Service opening times – Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Complete a referral form online or download the form below.