Simply talking to someone, either on the phone or via an online forum or group can bring huge benefits to your mental health. Whether it is just talking about your day to day routine or sharing experiences of how you are feeling and the pressures you face, connecting with others can be a huge help.

Carer FIRST’s Carer Forum
For carers aged 18+, Carer FIRST’s Carer Forum gives carers the opportunity to chat with other carers who may find themselves in similar situations.

Carers UK Online Forum
Carers UK online forum is a charity for carers offering advice and information, carers can  Once you are a member you can access its online forum.

Gransnet’s Care and Carers Forum
Gransnet's Care and Carers forum for older carers to chat to like-minded people

Scope’s Online Community for Parents and Carers
Scope's online community for parents and carers provides advice about caring for disabled children or adults – online chat room discussions including mental health issues.

Parents Voice
Parents Voice is the parents and carers forum for parents of children with SEND on the Isle of Wight. They can be contacted via email to parentsvoice@peoplematteriw.org

Sue Ryder Online Community
If someone you care for is dying or has died, the Sue Ryder Online Community is somewhere you can go to get things off your chest, share experiences and talk to people in a similar situation.

Useful helplines

• Carers Direct tel: 0300 123 1053

• Carers UK tel: 0300 123 1053

• SupportLine tel: 01708 765200