Help & Advice Support Groups National Groups Support and Activity Groups Name Description Telephone/Email Website Crossroads: Carers Trust 4all Provides various support groups for carers Click here Avenues Group Organises sports and leisure activities, day trips ad taster sessions for anyone with physical, sensory and/or learning difficulties 0300 3230405 [email protected] Click here Cinema Exhibitors Association (CEA) Provides a card for a small fee enabling carers to get free entry to cinemas when accompanying someone with a disability or additional need 0845 1231292 Click here Children Disabiltiies Information A directory of internet support groups for families and children with disabilities and/or special needs Click here Contact a Family A UK-Wide charity providing advice, information and support to parents of all disabled children 0808 8083555 Click here MENCAP Providing support and advice for people of all ages who have a learning disability and their families 0808 8081111 Click here YoungMinds National charity committed to improving the mental health of all babies, children and young people. Provides information for both parents and young people 0800 8025544 Click here Autism Independent UK Helps to increase awareness of autism. The main goal is to improve the quality of life for persons with autism 01536 523274 Click here Ambitious about Autism Provides services, raises awareness and understanding and campaigns for change 0208 8155444 Click here Mind Provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem 0300 1233393 [email protected] Click here National Autistic Society Provides advice aout autism for individuals and their families 0808 8004104 Click here Citizens Advice Bureau Provides people with round-the-clock access to CAB information on their rights- including benefits, housing and employment, debt, consumer and legal issues 0344 477 0808 Click here The Challenging Behaviour Foundation Works with children and adults with severe learning difficulties and behaviour that is described as challenging. They offer information and support to families across the UK 0300 666 0126 [email protected] Click here Patient Advice Liaison Service (PALS) Provides information about the NHS and helps to resolve concerns or problems when using NHS services. Also provides information to patients and their families about the NHS complaint procedures and gives advice on how to obtain independent help Click here