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The listed services and links to websites maintained by other organisations are included on here to assist you and are provided in good faith. Some may incur costs. Their inclusion does not imply that the Leicestershire Partnership Trust endorses or supports them, nor does the absence of a service imply that we do not support them
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Getting help to understand and find services
It can be hard to know which services are right for you. Different services have different rules about who can use them. If you are not sure where to start, there are local services that can help you work this out and connect you to the right support. Click the blue box below to find out how this works in in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
Getting help to understand and find services - in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
Leicester
Local area coordinators (LACs)
Local area coordinators help you understand what support is available in your community. They can:
- listen to what matters to you
- help you plan what support you need
- connect you to local groups and services
- help you stay independent
To find contact details for Leicester LACs, visit: www.leicester.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/adult-social-care/local-area-coordination/
Social prescribers
Social prescribers (sometimes called link workers) help you with non-medical needs. They can:
- help you think about what support you need
- suggest services and activities
- help you contact services or make referrals
You usually access a social prescriber through your GP surgery. Ask your GP or reception team if this is available.
Leicestershire
Local area coordinators (LACs)
Leicestershire has local area coordinators working in different areas. They can:
- help you understand your options
- support you to find local services
- work with you to build a plan that suits you
You can find contact details for your area here: www.leicestershire.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2023-09/LAC-contact-details.pdf
Social prescribers
Social prescribers can support you to:
- understand your needs
- find the right local support
- get help to access services
You usually need to ask your GP surgery for a referral. Some GP practices may let you refer yourself, so check with your practice.
Rutland
Early support care co-ordination (ESCO)
Rutland has ESCO instead of local area coordinators. ESCO can help families to:
- understand what support is available
- coordinate services around your needs
- plan the next steps
You can contact ESCO by calling the Early Help Front Door on: 01572 758 493
Find out more here: www.rutland.gov.uk/rutland-information-service/directory/5u5059zklr0
Social prescribers
Social prescribers can help you:
- work out what support you need
- find services and activities
- access or apply for support
You can ask your GP surgery about social prescribing. They can tell you how to get an appointment.
Care navigators for children and young people 0-19
Care navigators at Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust (LPT) help children and young people (0–19) and their families understand health services and find the right support.
They can:
- explain what services are available
- help you find the right support
- share information between professionals (with your consent)
- give updates about referrals and appointments
- be a point of contact if you are unsure what to do
They work across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, with a care navigator in each area.
How to access
You can be referred by a professional (like a GP, school or health worker)
Some families can contact the service themselves
Phone: 0116 215 3269
Website: www.leicspart.nhs.uk/service/care-navigation/
Important
This service is mainly for children and young people (0–19)
They need your permission to share information
Summary
Care navigators help organise and explain health support for children and families
Adults are more likely to get this kind of help from Local Area Co-ordinators (in Leicester and Leicestershire), and Early Support Care Co-ordinators ESCOs (in Rutland) – or from Social Prescribers (via their GP).
Care Navigators for children and young people 0-19
Care Navigators at Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust (LPT) help children and young people (0–19) and their families understand health services and find the right support.
They can:
- explain what services are available
- help you find the right support
- share information between professionals (with your consent)
- give updates about referrals and appointments
- be a point of contact if you are unsure what to do
They work across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, with a care navigator in each area.
How to access
You can be referred by a professional (like a GP, school or health worker)
Some families can contact the service themselves
Phone: 0116 215 3269
Website: www.leicspart.nhs.uk/service/care-navigation/
Important
This service is mainly for children and young people (0–19)
They need your permission to share information
Summary
Care Navigators help organise and explain health support for children and families
Adults are more likely to get this kind of help from Local Area Co-ordinators (in Leicester and Leicestershire), and Early Support Care Co-ordinators ESCOs (in Rutland) – or from Social Prescribers (via their GP).
Safeguarding support
If you are worried that someone is in immediate risk of danger, contact the police on 999.
If the person is at risk of danger, but it’s not immediate, you can contact the police on 101.
If it’s not an emergency but you are worried about someone’s safety or welfare, contact the local Social Services team.
Click the following boxes to find out how to report concerns about people living in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland.
What to do if you are worried about someone’s safety or welfare and they live in Leicester
What to do if you are worried about someone’s safety or welfare and they live in Leicester
If you are concerned about the safety and welfare of a child in Leicester City:
- Telephone Leicester City Council Social Care Duty and Advice Service: 0116 454 1004 (24 hour service)
- Call in to speak to someone in person here:: Customer Service Centre, 91 Granby Street, LE1 6FB
Click here to find out how to book an appointment: www.leicester.gov.uk/contact-us/self-service-and-customer-services/
If you are concerned about the safety and welfare of an adult in Leicester City:
- Telephone Leicester City Council Social Care Duty and Advice Service: 0116 454 1004 (24 hour service)
- Call in to speak to someone in person here: Customer Service Centre, 91 Granby Street, LE1 6FB
Click here to find out how to book an appointment: www.leicester.gov.uk/contact-us/self-service-and-customer-services/
Click this link to find out more: www.leicester.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/adult-social-care/what-support-do-you-need/safeguarding-adults-board/
What to do if you are worried about someone’s safety or welfare and they live in Leicestershire
What to do if you are worried about someone’s safety or welfare and they live in Leicestershire
If you are concerned about the safety and welfare of a child in Leicestershire:
- Telephone Leicestershire County Council Social Services First Response Children’s Duty Team on 0116 305 0005 (24 hour phone line)
You can speak to a Social Worker about your worries – and you do not have to give your name.
For more information, click the following link: lrsb.org.uk/childreport
If you are concerned about the safety and welfare of an adult in Leicestershire, contact Leicestershire County Council Social Services:
- Telephone – Monday to Thursday, 8.30am to 5pm, Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm; Leicestershire County Council Adult Social Care: 0116 305 0004
- Telephone – Evenings, weekends, Bank Holidays; Leicestershire County Council Adult Social Care Emergency Duty Team: 0116 305 0888
For more information, click the following link: lrsb.org.uk/adultreport
What to do if you are worried about someone’s safety or welfare and they live in Rutland
What to do if you are worried about someone’s safety or welfare and they live in Rutland
If you are concerned about the safety and welfare of a child in Rutland:
- Telephone Rutland County Council Children’s Social Care Duty Desk: 01572 758 407
This line is open Monday to Thursday, 8.30am – 5pm and Friday, 8.30am – 4.30pm.
If you report a concern outside of opening hours, you can leave a message and it will be reviewed the next working day at 8:30am.
- If you have a more urgent safeguarding concern outside of opening hours, telephone Leicestershire County Council Children’s Social Care First Response Team: 0116 305 0005.
For more information, click the following link: lrsb.org.uk/childreport
If you are concerned about the safety and welfare of an adult in Rutland:
- Telephone Rutland County Council Adult Social Care Duty Team: 01572 758 341
This link is open Monday – Thursday, 8.30am – 5pm and Friday, 8.30am – 4.30pm
- If you have a more urgent safeguarding concern outside of opening hours, telephone telephone Leicester City Council Social Care Duty and Advice Service: 0116 454 1004 (24 hour service)
For more information, click the following link: lrsb.org.uk/adultreport
Easy Read information about safeguarding
Click the following link for Easy Read information about safeguarding people in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland:
Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Safeguarding You Tube channel
Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Safeguarding Adults Board’s YouTube Channel
This YouTube Channel has a set of videos on how to spot signs of abuse and neglect and where to get support. Topics include: Domestic abuse, neglect, exploitation, self-neglect, how to recognise when someone is not safe and what to do about it.
To find all these videos, click the following link: www.youtube.com/@llrsafeguardingadultsboard8943.
The See Something, Say Something videos shine a spotlight on domestic abuse, neglect, exploitation, cuckooing and other forms of harm.
Click these links to find the videos:
| See Something Say Something – General |
| See Something Say Something – Exploitation |
| See Something Say Something – Domestic Abuse |
| See Something Say Something – Neglect |
What is Adult Safeguarding? Information Session. This video explains what adult safeguarding is and what to do if you have concerns for an adult or yourself.
Click this link to find the video: What is Adult Safeguarding? Information session
The Tricky Friends videos aim to help people understand what good friendships are, when they might be harmful, and what they can do. It is important that adults with care and support needs have positive opportunities to make and maintain friendships. We want them to be able to do this safely.
Click this link to find the videos:
| Tricky Friends (English) |
| Tricky Friends (Ukrainian) |
Hidden Harm Older Adults and Domestic Abuse. This video highlights that domestic abuse against older people is often Hidden. Older adults may not want to talk about what is happening in the home. This animation may be used as a tool to start a conversation with adults and families.
Click this link to find the video: Hidden Harm Older Adults and Domestic Abuse
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service hoarding peer group
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service hoarding peer group
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service run a Hoarding Peer Group: My Space at My Pace.
Living a life with hoarding behaviours can be lonely. Sometimes maintaining family and personal relationships can be difficult. Group meetings are a secure space where individuals sharing a similar lifestyle can connect with others who experience hoarding tendencies.
The group is for people with hoarding behaviours and also open to family and friends who have a loved one with hoarding tendencies.
To find out more, telephone the Fire Service and ask for the safeguarding team on 0116 210 5555
Family Help / Early Help / Children and Family Wellbeing Services
Local Authority (Council) Social Care Services can provide support for families who are experiencing difficulties that cannot be supported by standard universal services such as GPs or schools.
These services may be known as Family Help, Early Help or Children and Family Wellbeing Services
They can provide a wide range of support for children and families, such as
- Support for families impacted by domestic abuse, or where any family members are involved with the Youth Justice System
- Groups for young carers or children with special educational needs (SEND), which aim to improve their mental health and wellbeing.
- Groups for parents of SEND children which offer personal support and support around SEND related matters.
- Various groups and personal support, for parents of any children
Sometimes a family’s needs may be more complicated, and they might be given help from a Child in Need service and allocated a Social Worker who can work more closely with them to help make sure their needs are being met.
Support for children and families from Leicester City Council
Support for children and families from Leicester City Council
Leicester City Council offers a range of services for families. Some services are for families with specific or complex needs.
You may need an Early Help assessment to check if your family can use these services.
A referral for a child, young person or family can be made by a young person aged 16 or over, a parent or carer, or a professional.
To make a referral:
- First telephone the Leicester City Council One Number to talk about your request: 0116 454 1004
- Then complete a Leicester City Council Multi-Agency Referral Form (MARF)
- You can find this form by clicking the following link: Leicester City Council MARF form
Support for children and families from Leicestershire County Council
Support for children and families from Leicestershire County Council
Leicestershire County Council offers a range of services for families. Some services are for families with specific or complex needs. You may need an assessment to check if your family can use these services.
To find out what help is available for you and your family, you can:
Telephone Leicestershire County Council Family Help / Children and Wellbeing Service: 0116 305 8727
Click the following link and complete the Leicestershire County Council Family Help / Children and Wellbeing Service online application form: Leicestershire County Council help for families application form
If you are a young person, aged 11-19, you can complete the following form: Leicestershire County Council Teen Health referral form
Support for children and families from Rutland County Council
Support for children and families from Rutland County Council
Rutland County Council offers a range of Early Help services for families. Some services are for families with specific or complex needs. You may need an assessment to check if your family can use these services.
An Early Help referral for a child, young person or family can be made by a young person aged 16 or over, a parent or carer, or a professional.
You can either complete a Multi-Agency Referral Form (MARF) or contact Rutland County Council by email or phone.
Click this link for the Rutland County Council Multi-Agency Referral Form (MARF): Rutland County Council MARF
Rutland County Council telephone: 01572 758 493
Rutland County Council email: earlyhelp@rutland.gov.uk
Support from local authorities (councils) for adults struggling with activities of daily living
If you are 18 or over, finding daily tasks hard, and this is affecting your wellbeing, you can ask for a care and support assessment from your local council.
Having an assessment does not always mean you will get support. The council will decide this based on your needs.
During the assessment, you can talk about:
- what you find difficult each day
- how this affects your wellbeing
- what you want to be able to do
Support for adults from Leicester City Council
Support for adults from Leicester City Council
To find out about care and support assessments from Leicester City Council, click the following link: www.leicester.gov.uk/adult-social-care/how-we-assess-your-needs
Support for adults from Leicestershire County Council
Support for adults from Leicestershire County Council
To complete a care and support assessment application from Leicestershire County Council, click the following link: customerportal.leics.gov.uk/web/portal/pages/help/apply
Support for adults from Rutland County Council
Support for adults from Rutland County Council
To apply for a care and support assessment from Rutland County Council, you will need to complete a Multi-Agency Referral Form (MARF). You can find this form by clicking the following link: Rutland County Council MARF
You can also telephone Rutland County Council on this number to ask about an assessment: 01572 758 341
Support for carers
If you look after a friend or family member and you are not paid for this, you may be able to get a carers’ assessment from your local authority (council). This assessment will help the council decide if they can give you any support to help you look after the person you care for.
Support for carers from Leicester City Council
Support for carers from Leicester City Council
To find out about carers’ assessments from Leicester City Council, click the following link: www.leicester.gov.uk/adult-social-care/support-carers
Support for carers from Leicestershire County Council
Support for carers from Leicestershire County Council
To find out about carers’ assessments from Leicestershire County Council, click the following link: customerportal.leics.gov.uk/web/portal/pages/help/support
Support for carers from Rutland County Council
Support for carers from Rutland County Council
To find out about carers’ assessments from Rutland County Council, click the following link: Carers assessment | Rutland County Council
Resources to help you make a complaint or get help to speak up
You might want to share a compliment, ask a question, raise a concern or make a complaint about social care, health care or community services.
If you need help to speak up, you might be able to use an advocacy service. An advocate helps you say what you need.
When you make a complaint, it is usually best to contact the service you used first. They can often sort things out quickly.
For resources/advice on how to complain about NHS services in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland, click the following link: www.leicspart.nhs.uk/autism-space/health-wellbeing-resources/other-health-resources/
The services and resources listed below will help you find out how to complain about local authority or community services – and ask for advocacy support, if you need to.
Click the boxes for more information…
Complaining about adult social care services
Complaining about a social care service
If you’re paying for your own care and you’re unhappy with a social care service, care home or home care and, it may be best to speak to the service provider first, as this could help to resolve the issue.
If you want to make an official, formal complaint, each organisation providing a service has their own complaints process. So you will need to ask them how to do this.
If your care is funded or arranged by your local council, it may be best to speak to the service provider first, as this could help to resolve the issue.
If you prefer not to do that, you can raise your concerns directly with your local council.
Click the following link to find your local council: www.gov.uk/find-local-council
If you find it hard to make a complaint, consider using the Ask Listen Do service and / or asking for help from POhWER
Ask, Listen, Do – supporting feedback, concerns and complaints
Ask, Listen, Do – resources to support feedback, concerns and complaints
These resources help make health care and social care better for autistic people and people with learning disabilities.
What they do
- Help people share feedback, worries, or complaints about health care or social care
- Support families and paid carers to speak up too
- Encourage organisations to listen carefully
- Help services learn and make improvements
Who they are for
- Autistic children and adults
- People with learning disabilities
- Their families and carers
- Organisations that provide support and care
For more information about Ask Listen Do, click the following link: https://www.england.nhs.uk/learning-disabilities/about/ask-listen-do/
To watch a video about Ask Listen Do, made by NHS England, click the following link
This video was not produced by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust and may contain adverts.
Ask Listen Do resources for autistic people
Click the following link for a booklet to support autistic people understand about sharing feedback or making a complaint: www.leicspart.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Ask-listen-Do-Autism-Booklet.pdf
Click the following link for the feedback, concerns and complaint form – for autistic people: www.leicspart.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Autism-feedback-concern-and-complaint-form.pdf
Ask Listen Do resources for people with learning disabilities
Click the following link for the Easy Read information about Ask Listen Do: www.leicspart.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Ask-Listen-Do-Easyread.pdf
Click the following link for the Easy Read feedback, concerns and complaints form: www.leicspart.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Easyread-feedback-concern-and-complaint-form.pdf
Ask Listen Do resources for families and carers
Click the following link for Ask Listen Do information for families and carers: www.leicspart.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Ask-Listen-Do-for-families-and-carers.pdf
Ask Listen Do resources for organisations
Click the following link for Ask Listen Do information for organisations: www.leicspart.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ask-listen-do-for-organisations-and-practitioners-v1.pdf
POhWER complaints and advocacy service
POhWER complaints and advocacy service
POhWER support people living in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland who need to make a complaint about an NHS or local authority (council) care service.
They can also support people who need support (advocacy) to help with things like social care assessments or issues in the community – when they need to speak out and are finding this difficult.
Their service is free and confidential – and it is independent of the NHS or local authority (council)
POhwer contact details:
Telephone: 0300 200 0084
Email: pohwer@pohwer.net
Website information for Leicester City residents: www.pohwer.net/in-your-area/where-you-live/leicester-city
Website information for Leicestershire County residents: www.pohwer.net/leicestershire
Website information for Rutland County Residents: www.pohwer.net/rutland
Leicestershire Action for Mental Health Project (LAMP) - advocacy service
Lamp is an independent community mental health advocacy charity for the people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
Lamp provides free advocacy for people with mental health needs, including autistic people.
Support includes:
- Helping people to understand, navigate or challenge health, housing, benefits and social care systems
- Helping people to understand their rights and options
- Helping people communicate their views clearly and confidently
- Helping people work towards practical solutions to improve their wellbeing
Contact LAMP here:
Phone: 0116 255 6286
Email: advocacy@lampdirect.org.uk
Website: www.lampadvocacy.co.uk/
Employment support
Hiremi employment support
Hiremi employment support
Hiremi is available through the Tellmi app and provides people with resources and practical guidance to support their mental health while searching for employment. Whilst the service is not exclusively for autistic people, Tellmi have are an organisation that pride themselves on providing autism friendly support.
Through Hiremi, users can access tools to build confidence, overcome barriers to employment, discover local support, and receive guidance. For more information on how Hiremi works, please click here.
The Leicester Employment Hub
Leicester Employment Hub
The Leicester Employment Hub is a free local service run by Leicester City Council.
Its main aim is to connect Leicester residents to jobs, apprenticeships, training.
It also helps people struggling to find work or finding it difficult to stay in work because of a disability, long-term health condition or other barrier, Through Connect to Work
The Hub supports job seekers to:
- Look for local job vacancies
- Find and apply for apprenticeships
- Understand what employers are looking for
This support is free and focused on local opportunities in Leicester.
They offer skills, courses and training promote and connect people to:
- Skills Bootcamps
- Short courses
- Training linked to real jobs
These are designed to build confidence, improve employability and help people gain skills employers need
The Hub organises and advertises Job fairs to help meet employers face‑to‑face, learn about different careers and opportunities you may not see online
They support apprenticeships and even run an Annual Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony.
It helps people access local, supported routes into work by reducing barriers to employment, keeping opportunities local, supporting Leicester’s economic regeneration, and bringing job, training and employment support together in one easy‑to‑access place.
Leicester Employment Hub
Economic Regeneration Team
2nd Floor (Halford Wing),
115 Charles Street, Leicester, LE1 1FZ
Email: employmenthub@leicester.gov.uk
LEAT-Leicestershire Empowerment for Autism Today
LEAT – Leicestershire Empowerment for Autism Today
LEAT is a charitable organisation providing a wide range of specialist support services to young autistic people and adults who live in the city of Leicester or Leicestershire. Helping build independence, confidence and wellbeing through 1:1 coaching and social groups
Support could include:
- independent living skills
- social and communication skills
- anxiety and stress awareness & management
- career advice and guidance
- benefits advice and guidance
- employment support
- further education support
- advocacy.
This support is funded through the young person’s personal budget/direct payments.
Website: leatleicester.org.uk/
Connexions Leicester City- For 16–18yrs (and up to 25 for those with an EHCP or who are care leavers)
Connextions
Connexions Leicester City is a free, impartial careers service offering young people aged 16–18 (and up to 25 for those with an EHCP or who are care leavers). They have specialist personal advisers who are trained to work with young people with SEND to help them make decisions about their future on education, employment and training, delivered face to face or virtually.
Drop in: 2 Wellington Street, Leicester, LE1 6HL.
Email: connexions@leicester.gov.uk
Phone: 0116 4541770
Complete the form to be contacted about a referral
Contact Work and Skills Leicestershire
Contact Work and Skills Leicestershire
Work and Skills Leicestershire is an online portal designed to support individuals seeking jobs,
volunteering opportunities, and skills development in Leicestershire.
Contact Work and Skills Leicestershire | Leicestershire County Council
The portal provides information on available jobs, volunteering roles, and local skills providers and offers a simple way for users to request tailored information or guidance relevant to their employment journey.
There is a contact form for personalized advice on CVs, employment pathways, and skills support.
The portal is intended to be user-friendly and accessible, allowing individuals to easily connect with support services and resources. It complements other employment initiatives discussed in the meeting, such as Connect to Work, by providing an additional resource for job seekers and those looking to improve their employability.
Connect to Work is a DWP‑funded supported employment programme that helps autistic and other neurodivergent adults, people with learning disabilities, and carers across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to find, keep and progress in paid work by matching them to the right job and providing tailored, ongoing support for both individuals and employers.
Autism East Midlands -Employment support
Autism East Midlands (AEM)
Autism East Midlands (AEM) has been supporting autistic people and their families since 1968.
Formed by a small group of parents in Nottingham, the charity now provides support to autistic people and their families, across the East Midlands region – including, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland – plus Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire.
They offer a range of services at a range of costs. Services include those related to employment.
They help autistic adults by providing support to help them find and access work, courses or training.
They do this by offering:
- Employability support – to help you find jobs or volunteer roles. We help create CVs and cover letters and find work placed experience with employers.
- Interview prep – breaking down barriers for job interviews so that you can feel confident.
- In-work support – to talk through any issues impacting you at work. We want you to find a job you will love, not just any job.
Enrych
Enrych
Enrych are a mental health & disability charity promoting living with purpose.
Services they offer include 1:1 support and advice and guidance on employability.
They have work coaches who have designed an Employability support service course to provide personal support tailored to unique needs. Whether you need assistance identifying the right career path or working with employers to ensure smooth inductions and training, they can help.
Our course includes:
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Initial Meet
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Confidence / Motivation Building
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Skills Assessment
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Personal Goals and Plan Of Action
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CV Writing
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Interview Skills Preparation
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Work Experience
LPT Employment Support Service for adult patients open to community mental health teams, psychosis intervention and early recovery (PIER) and assertive outreach
The LPT Employment Support Service is delivered by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust; to adult patients open to community mental health teams, psychosis intervention and early recovery (PIER) and assertive outreach.
Its aim is to provide information, advice, guidance and support to find paid work, as part of an individualised recovery plan. We provide assistance to find the right job with the right support.
Our employment specialists are uniquely placed to provide the help to find and maintain paid work using the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model, which originated in the USA and has been adopted in this country by NHS England as it is proven to succeed with people with a lived experience of mental ill health.
They operate employment clinics where you can meet employment specialists on a one-to-one basis using an appointments system at our nine locations across the city, county and Rutland
The service is available Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm every week, except for bank holidays. The Employment Support Service team can be contacted on 0116 225 5700 during opening times and you can leave a message outside office hours or if the lines are busy.
If you have any access needs due to disability, sensory impairment, or because English is not your first language then please call us free on 0116 225 5700 or email us LPT.Employment.Support@nhs.net
Referral criteria
People aged 17+ currently open to Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust’s adult community mental health teams, PIER or assertive outreach, who would like to work and need support to overcome their barriers to getting into paid employment, as well as wanting practical help to get a job. This is an independent service – using it will not affect an individual’s DWP benefits.
Leicester Employment Hub
The Hub supports local employers
- Get free recruitment support
- Receive help advertising vacancies
- Get advice on grants and apprenticeships
- With more information about Connect to Work.
Where is it based?
- Leicester Employment Hub
- Economic Regeneration Team
- 2nd Floor (Halford Wing),
115 Charles Street, Leicester, LE1 1FZ
Email: employmenthub@leicester.gov.uk
Preparation (Transition) to /for adulthood (14- 25 with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities)
Leicester City Council Local Offer
Leicester City Council Local Offer
Leicester City Council’s Local Offer for Preparing for Adulthood supports young people aged 14–25 with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND), along with their families and professionals, to plan early and positively for adult life.
It focuses on helping young people develop the skills, confidence and support they need to achieve their own goals, whether that is continuing education, finding work, living more independently, staying healthy, or being part of their community. The approach is person‑centred and partnership‑based, meaning young people’s views are listened to, choices are supported, and information is shared clearly between services such as education, health and social care.
By planning ahead and working together, the Local Offer aims to ensure smoother transitions from children’s to adult services, better access to education, training, employment and volunteering, stronger independent living skills, good physical and mental health, and meaningful friendships and community involvement into adulthood
Click here to find further support around preparing for adulthood
Leicestershire County Council Local Offer
Leicester County Council’s Local Offer
Leicester County Council’s Local Offer for Preparation for Adulthood supports young people aged 13–25 with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) to plan early and confidently for adult life. Planning begins in Year 9 (ages 13–14) through a transition review, where young people and their families are supported to think about future education, employment, money and benefits, where they will live, health needs, and day‑to‑day support. This planning continues until age 18, when responsibility usually moves from Children’s Services to Adult Social Care. Young people with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) who are likely to need adult social care are supported by the Young Adult Disabilities Team to make sure there is no gap in support, working closely with other services to put a clear plan in place. The “My Journey to Adulthood” resource explains what to expect, answers common questions, and helps young people and families understand the changes, choices and support available as they move into adulthood.
My journey to adulthood
Click here to find further information
Becoming an adult – how our help changes | Leicestershire County Council
Preparing for adulthood: careers, jobs and training. There are a range of opportunities to help you find and apply for a job or training.
Rutland County Council Local Offer
Rutland County Council
Rutland County Council supports preparation for adulthood for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) by providing clear, practical information and services to help them become as independent and fulfilled as possible. Planning for adulthood starts early, usually from age 13–14, and focuses on key areas such as education and employment, health, life skills, community involvement, housing, money, and moving to adult social care. Rutland’s approach is based on teamwork, bringing together young people, families, schools, colleges, health professionals, community groups and council services to provide personalised support. Different levels of advice and support are available depending on a young person’s needs, including those with EHCPs, social care involvement, or complex health conditions. Resources such as guidance pages, practical tools, and videos (including on the Kids website) help young people make their voices heard and plan confidently for adulthood.
Click here to find further information
Preparing young people for adulthood | Rutland County Council
Meadow Barn Views Re-mind programme
Meadow Barn Views Re-mind programme
The Re-Mind programme at Meadow Barn View can support you to build confidence, learn new skills, and explore work opportunities.
Training in The Barn (kitchen and café)
Our training kitchen and coffee shop, The Barn, is a calm and supportive space where you can learn at your own pace.
You can learn:
• Food preparation skills
• Kitchen hygiene and food safety
• Health and safety
• Customer service
• Front of house (serving food and drinks)
• Cash handling
• Working as part of a team
You may also have the chance to gain work experience in the café.
6-week accredited course
• Gain an AIM qualification in Skills for Living and Work
• Learn practical skills for everyday life and employment
• Sessions are delivered by experienced tutors from GoLearn! Leicestershire Adult Learning Service
Garden Services Programme (15 weeks)
If you enjoy being outdoors, you can join our gardening programme.
You will learn:
• How to safely use tools (including power tools, with support)
• Grass cutting, weeding, and planting
• Jet washing and basic landscaping
• Soil preparation and land care
• Seasonal growing and harvesting
You will also have the opportunity to:
• Work on real garden projects in the local community
• Build confidence and practical experience
Support with jobs and volunteering
Our trained staff (fully qualified and DBS checked) will support you to:
• Create a CV
• Complete application forms
• Prepare for interviews
• Practice interview skills
• Find a job or volunteering role that suits you
We can also:
• Attend interviews with you if needed
• Stay in touch for up to 6 months after you start
• Support both you and your employer to help things go well
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Want to find out more?
• Email Alice (Training Co-ordinator): alice@meadowbarnview.co.uk
• Call: 07851 293488
• Arrange a visit to see if Meadow Barn View is right for you
You will be welcomed by a friendly and supportive team.
Everyday support services for adults
First Contact Plus
Your First Contact for Information Advice and Support in Leicestershire only
An online tool which helps adults in Leicestershire find information about a range of services all in one place.
Information and resources on housing, health, living independently, money advice, work, security and other topics that assist the county’s residents can be found on this site.First Contact Plus is delivered by Leicestershire County Council in partnership with GPs, the police, health organisations, voluntary groups and social care departments, district & borough councils who are helping adults across the county by working together to make access to services much easier
MyChoice Leicester City
MyChoice is a directory for care and support services for people living within the Leicester City area.
Citizens Advice
Citizen’s Advice offer advice on a range of issues including debt and money, benefits (including applications and appeals), housing, legal, discrimination, employment, immigration and consumer advice.
Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/
Website for people in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland: citizensadviceleicestershire.org/leicester/
Phone: 0808 278 7970
NeuroEmpowered Leicester CIC
NeuroEmpowered Leicester CIC is a community interest company dedicated to supporting neurodiverse individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, and co-occuring health conditions. The goal is to provide advocacy, educational resources, and tailored support to help individuals access essential services, maintain their independence, and feel a sense of belonging in their communities. They hope that in the near future we will be looking at ways of providing advocacy services for neurodiverse individuals with co-morbid health conditions. The aim is to pilot the advocacy services in Leicester, where the CIC is based. If you are an individual who would benefit from support, or feel as though you would like to help shape this service, please get in touch! At present, the primary focus is sharing resource guides, to support individuals with maintaining independence and practising self-advocacy. These are available and applicable for individuals anywhere in the UK.
Leicestershire Centre for Integrated Living (LCiL) is a user led organisation based in Leicester city that works in innovative ways based on the social model of disability to support disabled people at a local, regional and national level to exercise choice and control for independent living.
- Information, Advice, Guidance and Legal Surgeries
- Resources, Publications and Events that keep you up to date
- Membership
- A safe haven to report Hate Crimes
- Payroll Services
- Access Audits
- Training
- Accessible Meeting Spaces and Room Hire
- Research and Consultancy
- The Equality Standard
- Locations
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- West End Neighbourhood Centre, Andrewes Street, Leicester, LE3 5PA
- Open:
- LCiL Advice helpline is accessible during the following office hours: Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 4:30pmFriday 8:30am to 4:00pm
- Telephone: 0116 222 5005
- Email: admin@lcil.org.uk
Everyday support services for families, children and young people
Local Offer Leicester City
SEND local offer | LCC Family Hub
Information and guidance that can support children and young people with SEND, aged 0 to 25, in Leicester
Rutland Information Service – Rutland County Council
Rutland Information Service | Rutland County Council
The Rutland Information Service (RIS) is a free, impartial directory provided by Rutland County Council. The role of this directory and our website content is to provide information. We add links to our site from other websites to help you find more information and opportunities related to families, special educational needs and disabilities, and health and wellbeing.
Autism Central - information and education for parents and carers of autistic people of all ages
Autism Central offers a free, co-produced and co-delivered peer education programme created by and for families of autistic people of all ages.
They provide a welcoming, accessible learning environment where families can learn together, share lived experience, and build confidence.
They help families:
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- build knowledge and confidence
- understand autistic experiences of joy, distress, and wellbeing across the lifespan
- advocate effectively for their loved ones
- support wellbeing and reduce the risk of hospitalisation.
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Their offer includes:
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- Group peer-to-peer training and coaching – practical online sessions where families share strategies and strengthen skills
- 1-to-1 peer support – personalised guidance from trained peer educators with lived experience
- Reflective parenting sessions – safe spaces to explore neurodiversity and mental health in family life
- Regional peer-led meetings – online and face-to-face gatherings run by families, for families
- National learning platform – high-quality resources, available anytime
- Community connections – coffee mornings, drop-ins, and conversations that reduce isolation and build belonging
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Your child does not need to have a confirmed diagnosis of autism for you to be able to access support from Autism Central
To find out about what Autism Central’s offer, click the following link:
Autism East Midlands – a support service for autistic people and their families
Autism East Midlands (AEM) has been supporting autistic people and their families since 1968.
Formed by a small group of parents in Nottingham, the charity now provides support to autistic people and their families, across the East Midlands region – including, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland – plus Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire.
They offer a range of services at a range of costs. Services include those related to employment, accommodation, education, benefits
They run a number of family support hubs around the region – including some in Leicestershire and in Leicester City.
Some of these hubs run children’s groups and there are also some ‘teen support hubs’ for over 11’s. Children do not need a formal autism diagnosis to access these. There are various ‘family support hubs’ around the East Midlands including areas of Leicestershire and Leicester City.
Follow this link for more information about the family support hubs
https://www.autismeastmidlands.org.uk/child-services/family-support-hubs
Autism East Midlands run some online courses, covering subjects such as autism awareness, autism in the workplace, autism in women and girls, autism and mental health.
Corporate training packages are also available.
For details of courses, click here
For information about other services provided by Autism East Midlands, click this link:
Or call this number: 01909 506 678
Leicestershire Autistic Society
The Leicestershire Autistic Society (LAS) provides information, advice and support to autistic people and their families – in Leicester city, Leicestershire county and Rutland.
It is a volunteer led organisation, where the vast majority of the volunteers are parents or carers of an autistic person. It has been established for over 20 years.
The LAS aims to raise awareness and acceptance of autism and to provide autism-friendly activities and support for families – including some regular groups.
Who is it for?
The Leicestershire Autistic Society is open to autistic children, young people and adults, family members and professionals.
It has no eligibility criteria. It is for anyone living in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland who wants information or advice about autism.
Cost?
The annual membership Fee £5.00 –
Members have priority access to leisure activities, conferences and workshops.
Contact details
To find out the most up to date information about the Leicestershire Autistic Society you can email them here: Leicestershireautisticsociety@gmail.com
Website and Social Media
You can also find out more by viewing their social media pages
Website – click here: Leicestershire Autistic Society
private Facebook group – click here: Leicester Autistic Society Facebook Group
To join the private Facebook group, you will need to answer the following 3 questions:
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- Are you the parent or carer of an autistic person?
- Are you an autistic person?
- Do you live in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland?
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Family Lives early intervention and crisis support to families
Family Lives provides targeted early intervention and crisis support to families. They aim to provide support and information to help families avoid getting to crisis point.
They have a comprehensive suite of resources available to everyone – including a national helpline, online chat, email support.
Their trained staff aim to listen and give you the space to talk, helping you to explore your situation and identify the way forward. They let you, the caller, direct the conversation to wherever you want to go.
They will take what you say seriously, and not minimise it.
They may ask you some questions to help them fully understand your situation and explore your feelings, and help you talk through options or consider specific organisations which may be able to help you.
They do their best to provide you with as much helpful information and support and encouragement as they can – to put you, as the expert on your own life, in a good position to make whatever choices are best for you.
Core to their organisational values is to ensure you will be listened to with empathy, care and respect.
They cannot offer legal or medical advice.
Family Lives also have a resource-rich website, online courses and more.
To find links to all of the above services, visit the Family Lives homepage here:
For families in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland in need of more intensive support, Family Lives provide a Whole Family Relationship Support Service
This offers families comprehensive help and guidance that builds
stronger relationships and gives strategies to overcome
difficulties and challenges, together
For more information about the Family Lives Whole Family Relationship Support Service. click the following link:
Leicestershire Empowerment for Autism Today – LEAT – for autistic young people and adults
LEAT provides a range of specialist support services to autistic young people and adults in the city of Leicester and county of Leicestershire. They are a charitable organisation, though they do charge a fee for their services.
They offer comprehensive and flexible support to our clients, as well as training in Autism Awareness to professionals and employers. Services are tailored to meet individual needs and include supporting people in and with work, education, volunteering, independent living, activities of interest, and (often new) social situations and environments, as well as accessing services, appointments, the wider community, and other such essential areas. They aim to empower greater independence, confidence, connection with others and personal wellbeing.
They offer 1:1 autism support/coaching to adults and young people age 16+, covering both city and county locations; group support in the form of a weekly autism social gathering, held in venues across Leicester city centre; and informal training/consultancy to individuals, professionals and local organisations seeking our input.
They charge an hourly rate for all services. Some of their clients pay for this themselves, others may get funding from Local and Health Authority care packages (for example, via LCC Direct Payments) that they then choose to spend on LEAT services.
For general information about LEAT, visit their website here
To find out details about LEAT’s services and costs, you can get in touch with them by clicking here and completing the contact form.
Turning Point Leicester City - Violence Intervention Project
Turning Point Leicester City – Violence Intervention Project empowers young people to reduce their chances of becoming involved in violence in the future
For more information, click the following link:
Turning Point Leicester City – Violence Intervention Project
Support services for addictions
Turning Point - advice and support relating to alcohol and drugs
Turning Point offer advice and support relating to drugs and alcohol
To find out more about Turning Point advice and support in Leicester City, click the following link:
Turning Point advice and support in Leicester City
And for advice and support for young people, click here:
Advice and support for young people in Leicester city
Turning Point Leicester have adapted their consultation rooms to help make neurodivergent people more comfortable. Each room as soft furnishings, fidget toys, sensory tools, colouring books and more.
Turning Point Leicester City Leaflet
To find out more about Turning Point advice and support in Leicestershire and Rutland, click the following link:
Turning Point advice and support in Leicestershire and Rutland
Support for benefits and finance
Local support for benefits and finance Leicester City Council
Find out and apply for benefits you may be entitled to, including housing benefit and council tax support, manage your online account or get additional help and support around:
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- Your council benefits
- Fuel costs
- Budgeting advice tool
- Other financial support
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Click here to use the benefits calculator, apply for a benefit and get budgeting advice.
Local support for benefits and finance Leicestershire County Council
There are benefits and financial help available depending on your disability or the disability of the person you care for.
Click here for benefits and financial help for disabled young people and their carers.
Local support for benefits and finance Rutland Information Service- Rutland County Council
Click here for money matters advice for families.
Includes employment, grants and benefits, making ends meet, money advice, paying for childcare and financial crisis support.
Click here for money matters advice for adults
Includes information on money matters ‘where to start’, financial crisis support, benefits, making ends meet, money advice and paying for care.
Support for LGBTQIA+ people
Local support for autistic LGBTQIA+ people (Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland)
For a list of nationally available support for neurodivergent LGBTQIA+ people, click this link:
NeuroQueer group
Click here to see the NeuroQueer poster
This is a group run for and by people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and who are neurodivergent (whether formally diagnosed or not)
They are a peer-led social and support group, offering a balance of structured activities and discussion, with opportunities to informally socialise.
It is open to anyone aged 16+ living in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland who is LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent (including people who self-identify or are exploring whether a formal diagnosis might be useful to them).
The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month, from 6-8pm, at the Trade office at 27 Bowling Green Street, Leicester LE1 6AS.
It is free to attend. Just turn up to the meeting.
If you want to find out what to expect, contact them:
Email: info@wearetradehealth.co.uk
Phone: 0116 254 1747
Click here for the Trade website:
Local support for LGBTQIA+ people (Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland)
For a list of nationally available support for LGBTQIA+ people, click this link:
Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre
Offers counselling, support groups for all ages, and community activities for LGBTQIA+ people. They can support autistic people and help with reasonable adjustments.
Website: leicestershirelgbtqcentre.org
Trade Sexual Health
Free confidential health advice information, services and support for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans communities of Leicester Leicestershire and Rutland.
This includes: HIV testing, sexual health screening, safer sex packs, sexual health advice, counselling service, LGBT hate crimes reporting support
Website: wearetradehealth.co.uk
Email: info@wearetradehealth.co.uk
Advice line: 0116 254 1747
Address: 2nd Floor, 27 Bowling Green Street, Leicester LE1 6AS
Instagram: www.instagram.com/wearetradehealth
BlueSky: bsky.app/profile/wearetradehealth.bsky.social
Dosti Leicester
South Asian and Middle Eastern Social Support group for LGBTQ people
Email: Dosti.Leicester@gmail.com
Whatsapp: 07897 759969
Leicester Pride
Leicester’s annual LGBT festival – held at the beginning of September every year.
Website: www.leicesterpride.com
Leicester Wildecats
LGBTQ+ football club in Leicestershire
Website: wildecats.co.uk
Foxes Pride
LGBTQ+ supporters of Leicester City Football Club
Website: foxespride.co.uk
Queer Outdoors club
Where: Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre
When : Thursday evenings
Activities include: fencing, archery, axe throwing, bushcraft, kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, aerial trekking and more
Address: Loughborough Road, Leicester, LE4 5PN
Phone: 0116 2681426
Website: www.lopc.co.uk
St Nicholas Church, Leicester
St Nicholas Church is Leicester’s oldest church. It is a member of the Inclusive Church Network. They believe strongly in the full inclusion of LGBT+ people in all areas of life and faith.
Address: St Nicholas Circle, Leicester, LE1 4LB
Website: stnicholasleicester.com
Local support for trans people
For a list of nationally available support for trans people, click this link:
Trans* Thriving: Mind, Body and Spirit
Three year project to create safe inclusive spaces for trans* people
Offering opportunities for fitness, social support and personal growth in ways that foster belonging and wellbeing
* Transgender, non-binary and gender non-conforming people.
Website: wearetradehealth.co.uk/projects/transthriving-mind-body-and-spirit
Email: transthriving@wearetradehealth.co.uk
Adult Trans Social & Support Group (Ages 18+)
Website: www.leicestershirelgbtqcentre.org/adult-trans-social-support-group-ages-18
Local NHS information for young trans people:
www.healthforteens.co.uk/relationships/lgbtq/gender-identity-just-the-facts
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