The Basic Assistance Directory is a reliable resource designed to connect individuals with a wide range of essential services and organisations across various sectors. From debt advice and housing support to legal guidance and mental health assistance, this directory offers access to trusted organisations committed to providing free or low-cost services to those in need.
Each entry in the Basic Assistance Directory is carefully selected to ensure high standards of professionalism, expertise, and dedication to supporting individuals through challenging circumstances. Whether you’re dealing with financial difficulties, seeking legal advice, or requiring mental health support, the directory is your go-to source for finding the help you need.
With this directory, users can easily navigate through different categories, identifying the right organisations and services to address their specific needs. The Basic Assistance Directory is your gateway to trusted support services that you can rely on with confidence.
Debt and Financial Assistance
National Debtline is a free, confidential service dedicated to helping individuals manage their personal debts. With a focus on empowering individuals to regain control of their finances, National Debtline offers practical advice on budgeting, debt management, and dealing with creditors. Their service includes an extensive online resource hub, budgeting tools, and personalised support over the phone, making it a go-to resource for anyone facing financial difficulties.
Website: www.nationaldebtline.org
Address: Tricorn House, 51-53 Hagley Road, Birmingham, B16 8TP
Telephone: 0808 808 4000
StepChange is one of the UK’s leading debt charities, offering expert advice and practical solutions to help individuals resolve their personal debt issues. They provide a range of services, from tailored Debt Management Plans (DMPs) to advice on bankruptcy and Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs). StepChange’s holistic approach ensures that individuals not only receive immediate help but also long-term strategies to improve their financial well-being.
- Address: [See website for details]
- Telephone: 0800 138 1111
- Website: www.stepchange.org
✅ Recommended by PSN Member:
John Barwell, founder of Legal Lens and advocate for Litigants in Person, personally recommends StepChange. Having used their services himself, John attests to their professionalism and effectiveness in helping individuals navigate debt management and financial challenges.
MoneyHelper is a government-backed service offering free, impartial advice on managing money, debt, and pensions. With a wide range of tools and calculators, MoneyHelper assists individuals in making informed financial decisions, whether they’re planning for retirement, dealing with debt, or managing everyday expenses. Their comprehensive online guides, coupled with expert phone support, ensure that everyone can access clear and practical advice, no matter their financial situation.
- Address: [See website for details]
- Telephone: 0800 138 7777
- Website: www.moneyhelper.org.uk
Housing and Homelessness Support
Shelter – Housing and Homelessness Charity
Shelter is a UK charity that provides crucial support to individuals facing housing issues, including homelessness, eviction, and unsafe living conditions. They offer expert legal advice, emergency helplines, and a wealth of online resources to help people understand their rights and find immediate solutions to their housing problems. Shelter also campaigns for housing rights, working to ensure that everyone has access to a safe and secure home.
- Address: [See website for details]
- Telephone: 0808 800 4444 (Freephone)
- Website: www.shelter.org.uk
Justice For Tenants – Tenant Legal Support
Justice For Tenants is dedicated to protecting the rights of renters by providing free advice, support, and legal representation. Whether tenants are facing eviction, dealing with disrepair, or seeking rent repayment orders, this organisation offers vital assistance to ensure that renters are treated fairly and legally. Justice For Tenants also helps tenants navigate the often-complex legal landscape surrounding housing issues.
- Address: [See website for details]
- Telephone: [See website]
- Website: www.justicefortenants.org
Legal Assistance and Rights
LawWorks is a national organisation that connects individuals in need with solicitors and barristers who offer free legal advice through pro bono services. They assist with a variety of legal issues, including housing, employment, and debt, ensuring that everyone has access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. LawWorks also supports charities and not-for-profit organisations, offering them free legal assistance to further their community impact.
- Address: [See website for details]
- Telephone: [See website]
- Website: www.lawworks.org.uk
Citizens Advice is a nationwide service providing free, independent, and confidential advice on a wide range of topics, including legal issues, benefits, employment, and housing. Their local branches offer in-person assistance, while their comprehensive website provides a wealth of information and self-help tools. Citizens Advice is a key resource for individuals seeking guidance on their rights and the best steps to take in resolving personal challenges.
- Address: [Check your local directory for details]
- Telephone: [Varies by location]
- Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
✅ Recommended by PSN Member:
John Barwell, founder of Legal Lens and advocate for Litigants in Person, highly recommends Citizens Advice. Based on his professional experience supporting individuals who represent themselves in legal matters, John believes Citizens Advice offers invaluable assistance to those in need of clear, practical guidance across a variety of personal and legal issues.
Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU) provides free immigration advice and legal representation to refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable individuals in Greater Manchester and Merseyside. Their team of legal experts offers support with asylum claims, refugee status applications, and other complex immigration issues. GMIAU plays a vital role in helping vulnerable people navigate the immigration system and secure their legal rights.
- Address: [See website for details]
- Telephone: 0161 740 7722
- Website: www.gmiau.org
The Equality Advisory Support Service (EASS) offers free legal advice and guidance on issues related to equality and discrimination in the UK. They provide support to individuals who have experienced discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics, helping them understand their rights and explore legal recourse. EASS is a key resource for anyone facing inequality in their workplace, housing, or community.
- Address: [See website for details]
- Telephone: 0808 800 0082
- Website: www.equalityadvisoryservice.com
Mental Health Support
Mind is a leading mental health charity in the UK, offering support to anyone experiencing mental health problems. With free confidential helplines, local support centres, and a range of online resources, Mind provides essential guidance for individuals in need of mental health support.
- Website: www.mind.org.uk
- Telephone: 0300 123 3393
Samaritans provides a 24/7 helpline for individuals struggling with emotional distress and suicidal thoughts. Their trained volunteers offer free, confidential support via phone, email, and face-to-face meetings, making Samaritans a key resource in times of crisis.
- Website: www.samaritans.org
- Telephone: 116 123 (Freephone)