In Manchester, we want all care leavers to feel well and stay active. We're here to support you in getting the care and services you need for your physical and mental health.
What We Offer
- Health Passport: Receive a health passport when you leave care, containing your personal health history.
- Health Service Registration: Get help registering with health services when you turn 18 and if you move.
- Prescription Support: Guidance on accessing free prescriptions and other eligible health-related costs.
- Mental Health Services: Access mental health services with ongoing support available until age 25.
- Sexual Health and Family Planning: Receive advice and support on sexual health and family planning.
- Healthy Living Advice: Information to support a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
- Support for Young Parents: Additional resources if you’re a young parent.
- Ongoing Support: Continued assistance beyond age 18, involving Adult Social Care if needed.
- Leisure Facilities: Free or discounted entry to select leisure facilities in Manchester.
- Community Events: Access social and community events to keep you active and connected with others.
- Trauma-Informed Support: Opportunities to build skills and reflect on your journey using a trauma-informed approach.
A member of our Leaving Care team can also accompany you to medical appointments to ensure you receive the support and advice you need.
Useful Contacts and Services for Health and Wellbeing
If you need assistance with your health and wellbeing, the following services are available to you:
Leaving Care - Duty Support
If your Personal Advisor (PA) is unavailable and you need urgent support, call the duty line at 0161 227 3030.
Mental Health Support
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free) or 0330 094 5717 (local call charges apply)
- NSPCC/Childline: Call 0800 1111
- Greater Manchester Mental Health Crisis Care: Call 0161 271 0450 (Manchester)
- 42nd Street: Call 0161 228 7321 (Monday to Friday, 9:30 am–5 pm)
- Mind Manchester: Call 0161 769 5732 (located in our Community Hub)
Substance Use and Addiction Support
- Change Grow Live
- Mind: Information on recreational drugs, alcohol, and addiction
- Be Smoke Free Scheme: Support to quit or reduce smoking; call 0161 823 4157
Sexual Health Support
- Northern Sexual Health Support Service (Hathersage Centre): Call 0161 276 5200
- The Brook (for those aged 19 and under): Call 0161 237 3001
Community Health Resources
- Manchester Specialist Nursing Team for Care Leavers: Health advice for care leavers; call 0161 861 2254
- Pharmacists: Experts in medicines and available for advice on common health concerns
- NHS Website: Comprehensive guide to health conditions, treatments, and when to seek help
- Dentists: Assistance with oral health, including teeth, gums, and mouth care
Cost of Living Support
Resources are available to help you navigate living expenses.
Crisis Services
- 24/7 Helpline: Call 0800 953 0285 for round-the-clock support.
- Crisis Café No. 93: Friendly, out-of-hours support space for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis. Call 0161 271 0339 or 07778 0128381.
Emergency Services
In immediate danger, call 999. For urgent health concerns, visit A&E or call 111 (or visit 111.nhs.uk if it’s not an emergency).
For non-emergency police matters, call 101.