I am worried about someone else
You might be worried about a friend, partner, family member, colleague, neighbour or someone you care for.
Perhaps they have become withdrawn, seem frightened, are behaving differently, or have told you something that makes you concerned for their safety.
You might suspect they are being abused, struggling with their mental health, experiencing problems at home, or finding everyday life difficult.
Sometimes you may not know exactly what is happening.
You do not need to have all the answers before asking for advice.
There are organisations that can help you understand what to do next, even when the person you are worried about has not asked for help.
Is someone in immediate danger?
If you believe someone is in immediate danger, has suffered a serious injury, or may be about to seriously harm themselves or another person, call emergency services.
999Explain what is happening and give the person's location if you know it.
For an urgent mental health concern that is not immediately life-threatening, contact the appropriate NHS urgent care service or the person's GP.
How can I help someone?
It can be difficult to know what to say, especially when someone does not want to talk.
Start gently. Choose a private, safe moment and explain what you have noticed, without making accusations.
Listen without judging. Give them time to speak and avoid pressuring them to explain everything immediately.
Ask what would help. You might offer to sit with them, help find a support service, or accompany them to an appointment.
Respect their choices. Where it is safe and appropriate, allow them to make their own decisions. Do not promise secrecy if a child or another person may be at serious risk.
Think about safety. If you suspect abuse or controlling behaviour, avoid confronting the suspected abuser or taking actions that could increase the danger.
Seek specialist advice. You can speak to a support organisation about your concerns without needing to solve the situation yourself.
Where can I find help?
Choose the support most relevant to the person you are worried about.
Someone's mental health
NHS Every Mind Matters
Practical guidance on supporting someone experiencing mental health difficulties, including how to start a conversation and encourage them to seek further help.
NHS guidanceYou can also visit our mental health support page.
Worried about a child?
NSPCC
If you are worried about the safety or wellbeing of a child, the NSPCC can offer guidance about your concerns.
0808 800 5000Telephone helpline: Monday to Friday, 10am–4pm.
If a child is in immediate danger, call 999. You can also contact local children's services about safeguarding concerns.
NSPCC adviceWorried about an older person?
Age UK
Advice for older people and their families, friends and carers, including concerns about wellbeing, care, housing and practical support.
0800 678 1602Free advice line, 8am–7pm, every day of the year.
Age UK adviceSomeone may be suicidal
Samaritans
If someone is struggling emotionally, Samaritans can listen without judgement.
You can also contact Samaritans if you are distressed about someone else's situation.
116 123Free to call, day or night.
Contact SamaritansAlso see our suicide and self-harm page.
Someone may be experiencing abuse
If someone is being threatened, controlled, hurt or frightened, specialist services can advise on safer ways to help.
Avoid contacting a suspected abuser or making plans that could expose the person to additional danger.
Abuse supportYou can also read about controlling or threatening behaviour.
Someone is struggling with drugs or alcohol
Alcohol or drug problems can affect the individual and those around them.
Specialist services can help you understand your options and how to support someone without neglecting your own wellbeing.
Drug and alcohol supportWhat if they refuse help?
It can be upsetting when someone you care about does not want support.
Unless there is an immediate safety concern or a safeguarding issue requiring action, it may be better to keep communication open rather than trying to force a conversation.
You can explain that you are available to listen, offer practical help, and encourage them to contact a professional.
If you believe a child or an adult at risk is being abused or neglected, contact the appropriate safeguarding service for advice. You do not need proof before raising a genuine concern.
Remember to look after yourself
Supporting someone through a difficult time can be emotionally exhausting.
You may need someone to listen to your worries too.
Seeking advice or support for yourself is reasonable, even if the other person is not ready to seek help.
What if I am not sure what is wrong?
You can begin by describing what you have noticed rather than trying to identify a particular condition or situation.
For example, you might say that the person seems frightened, has become isolated, or is behaving very differently.
A GP, appropriate safeguarding service or specialist organisation may be able to help you decide on the next step.
About Jacob's House
Jacob's House is a UK signposting resource. We help people find established organisations and appropriate support.
We do not provide counselling, medical advice, safeguarding investigations or emergency services.
You do not need to register or share personal information with Jacob's House to use these resources.
