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Crisis signposts (UK)

If a moment is beyond what an app should hold.

These are the services Iris points to when it stops the model and responds directly. They are free, confidential, and staffed by real people. If you or your child are in immediate danger, please call 999.

In immediate danger, call 999

Police, ambulance, fire — 24/7, free from any phone.

Call 999
  • NHS 111

    Urgent medical or mental-health help when it's not a 999 emergency.

    111

    24/7

  • Samaritans

    Anyone struggling to cope, in emotional distress, or thinking about suicide.

    116 123

    24/7 · free · won't show on your bill

  • Shout

    Text-based crisis support if you don't want to talk.

    Text SHOUT to 85258

    24/7 · free · confidential

  • NSPCC

    Adults worried about a child — including if you're not sure it's serious.

    0808 800 5000

    Mon–Fri 10am–8pm · Sat–Sun 9am–6pm

  • Childline

    Any child or young person under 19 who needs to talk.

    0800 1111

    24/7 · free · confidential

  • Refuge — National Domestic Abuse Helpline

    Anyone experiencing domestic abuse.

    0808 2000 247

    24/7 · free · confidential

  • YoungMinds Parents Helpline

    Parents and carers worried about a child's mental health.

    0808 802 5544

    Mon–Fri 9:30am–4pm

  • Beat — Eating Disorders

    Parents and young people affected by an eating disorder.

    0808 801 0711 (Youthline) · 0808 801 0677 (Adults)

    365 days · 3pm–8pm weekdays, 4pm–8pm weekends

  • PAPYRUS HOPELINE247

    Under 35s with thoughts of suicide, and anyone worried about them.

    0800 068 4141

    24/7 · free · confidential

Last reviewed 9 July 2026. If a number here is wrong or out of date, please let us know.