External Support Services
The University of Wolverhampton works closely with a range of local and national organisations that provide specialist advice, advocacy and support.
You may choose to access these services alongside University support, or independently.
Many organisations offer confidential advice and support whether or not you choose to report a concern to the University or the police.
Finding Support Near You
Hub of Hope
Hub of Hope is the UK's largest mental health support directory and can help you find local and national support services based on your location and needs.
Mental Health Support Network provided by Chasing the Stigma | Hub of hope
The service brings together a wide range of organisations providing support for:
- mental health and wellbeing
- crisis support
- bereavement
- addiction and recovery
- domestic abuse
- housing and homelessness
- financial difficulties
- loneliness and social isolation
- carers
- young people and students
If you are unsure where to start, Hub of Hope can be a useful first step in identifying support available in your local area.
Emergency Support
Emergency Services
If someone is in immediate danger, a crime is in progress, or urgent medical assistance is required:
Call 999
For non-emergency police matters:
Call 101
Victim Support
Victim Support
Victim Support provides free and confidential support to anyone affected by crime, regardless of whether the matter has been reported to the police.
Support may include:
- emotional support
- practical advice
- advocacy
- information about criminal justice processes
You do not need a police crime reference number to access support.
Hate Crime and Discrimination
True Vision
True Vision provides information about hate crime and hate incidents and allows individuals to access guidance on reporting concerns.
The service includes information relating to:
- race and ethnicity
- religion or belief
- disability
- sexual orientation
- transgender identity
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice guides on:
- discrimination
- harassment
- hate crime
- equality rights
- legal protections
Tell MAMA
Tell MAMA supports individuals affected by anti-Muslim hatred and discrimination.
The service provides:
- support for victims
- incident reporting
- advocacy
- information and guidance
Community Security Trust (CST)
The Community Security Trust supports individuals affected by anti-Semitic incidents, harassment and hate crime.
The organisation provides practical support, advice and incident reporting services.
Disability Equality North West
Disability Equality North West works to raise awareness of disability hate crime and improve reporting and support for disabled people.
Domestic Abuse
Black Country Women's Aid
Black Country Women's Aid provides specialist support across the Black Country for people affected by:
- domestic abuse
- sexual violence
- stalking
- exploitation
Support includes advocacy, practical assistance and specialist advice.
Refuge
Refuge provides support for women experiencing domestic abuse, including emergency accommodation and specialist support services.
Men's Advice Line
The Men's Advice Line provides confidential advice and support for men experiencing domestic abuse.
Sexual Violence and Sexual Misconduct
Rape Crisis England & Wales
Rape Crisis provides specialist support for women and girls affected by rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment and sexual violence.
SurvivorsUK
SurvivorsUK provides specialist support for men, boys, trans and non-binary people affected by sexual violence, abuse or exploitation.
The Survivors Trust
The Survivors Trust is a national organisation supporting survivors of rape, sexual violence and sexual abuse.
Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs)
SARCs provide specialist medical, practical and emotional support following sexual assault.
Support is available whether or not you choose to report to the police.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
NHS 111
If you need urgent mental health support but it is not an emergency, contact NHS 111 and select the mental health option where available.
Samaritans
Samaritans provide confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
They support people experiencing:
- emotional distress
- loneliness
- thoughts of self-harm
- thoughts of suicide
SHOUT
SHOUT provides free confidential support by text message for people experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress.
Housing, Money and Legal Advice
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice can provide support with:
- housing concerns
- tenancy rights
- debt
- benefits
- employment issues
- consumer rights
Shelter
Shelter provides expert advice and support relating to:
- housing rights
- homelessness
- tenancy issues
- landlord disputes
Modern Slavery and Exploitation
Modern Slavery and Exploitation Helpline
The Modern Slavery Helpline provides confidential advice and support regarding:
- exploitation
- forced labour
- human trafficking
- domestic servitude
- labour abuse
Support is available regardless of nationality or immigration status.
Local Policing Support
West Midlands Police
West Midlands Police can provide support relating to:
- crime reporting
- hate crime
- domestic abuse
- stalking
- safeguarding concerns
- community safety
Local neighbourhood policing teams may also be able to provide advice and support within your local area.
Choosing the Right Support
You do not need to decide whether something is serious enough before seeking help.
If you are unsure where to start, you can:
- Contact the University's Safeguarding Team
- raise a concern through Report + Support
- Speak to a trusted member of staff
- Contact one of the specialist organisations listed above
Seeking support early can often prevent situations from becoming more difficult to manage.
Remember: you do not have to deal with concerns on your own.