HealthDeXX: The Women’s Health Organisations & Patient Groups Hub
A comprehensive directory of UK organisations supporting women’s health, from condition-specific charities and NHS advocacy services to research bodies and crisis support.
Help us keep this directory complete.
If you know of an organisation that should be listed, or represent one yourself, let us know.
Advocating within the NHS
Key services, formal routes, and NHS schemes designed to ensure your concerns are taken seriously.
PALS – Patient Advice & Liaison Service
Every NHS trust has a free, confidential PALS team. If you feel unheard, dismissed, or need help navigating care, contact them first. They can escalate concerns informally before a formal complaint is needed.
How to find yours: Search “PALS + [your NHS trust name]” or ask at your hospital reception.
NHS Formal Complaints – Independent Advocacy
If PALS doesn’t resolve your concern, you have the right to make a formal complaint. Free independent advocates can support you through the process; you don’t have to do it alone.
POhWER: 0300 456 2370
The Advocacy People: 0330 440 9000
VoiceAbility: 0300 303 1660
Your Right to a Second Opinion
You are entitled to ask your GP or specialist for a second opinion. You do not need to explain why. If your GP refuses to refer you, you can ask to see a different GP or contact PALS for support.
The NHS Constitution states patients have the right to be involved in all decisions about their care and treatment.
Parliamentary & Health Service Ombudsman
If your formal NHS complaint has not been resolved satisfactorily, you can escalate to the Parliamentary & Health Service Ombudsman – the final stage of NHS complaints in England.
ombudsman.org.ukBirth Reflections / Listening Service
Many NHS trusts offer an appointment to talk through your pregnancy, birth, or postnatal experience with a member of the maternity team. These sessions are valuable but not widely publicised. Many women don’t know they have access to them.
Note: Service names and availability vary by trust. Search “Birth Reflections + [your NHS trust name]” or ask your midwife or health visitor.
Be Part of Research (NIHR)
A free UK-wide service run by the National Institute for Health Research helping people find and take part in research studies. Contributing to research can directly improve care for future patients and for yourself.
bepartofresearch.nihr.ac.ukNHS England has introduced a number of schemes to improve safety and ensure patients are not overlooked. The below are particularly relevant for women who have experienced repeated dismissal of symptoms.
Jess’s Rule: Three Strikes & We Rethink
If you visit your GP three times for the same symptoms without improvement or a clear diagnosis, this initiative prompts a formal re-evaluation, including the option of a specialist referral or second opinion. Named after Jessica Brady, it aims to prevent missed diagnoses.
Martha’s Rule: Rapid Review Request
If you are a patient or family member in hospital and believe a patient’s condition is deteriorating without adequate response, Martha’s Rule gives you the right to request an immediate independent clinical review, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Rolled out across NHS England from 2024.
NHS Patient Safety Incident Response Framework (PSIRF)
The NHS framework for investigating serious patient safety incidents. If you or a loved one has been seriously harmed, your NHS trust has a duty to conduct a formal investigation and involve you in the process. You can request involvement directly.
NICE Guidelines – Know Your Rights to Treatment
NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) publishes guidelines on recommended treatments and referral pathways. If your GP or specialist is not following NICE guidelines for your condition, you can raise this formally.
NHS Patient Experience Programme
NHS England collects and acts on patient feedback through the Friends and Family Test and national surveys. Your feedback directly influences how services are designed and improved. Poor scores lead to scrutiny of trusts.
Duty of Candour
NHS organisations and staff have a legal duty to be open and honest with patients when things go wrong. If you have been harmed, your trust must tell you what happened, apologise, and explain what they are doing to prevent it happening again.
Gynaecological Conditions
Endometriosis · PMOS · Fibroids · Pelvic Pain · Vulval Conditions · Cervical Health
Endometriosis UK
The leading UK charity for endometriosis. Provides a national helpline, volunteer support groups, online forums, and campaigns for faster diagnosis – currently averaging 8 years in the UK. Produces patient information materials used across the NHS.
endometriosis-uk.orgThe Endometriosis Foundation
Focuses on awareness, education, and support for people living with endometriosis. Provides resources for patients, carers, and healthcare professionals.
theendometriosisfoundation.orgVerity
The UK’s only charity dedicated to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome(PMOS) (former PCOS). Provides a self-help community, peer support, and evidence-based information for those navigating diagnosis and long-term management.
verity-pcos.org.ukCysters
A grassroots organisation supporting people with PMOS and related reproductive health conditions, with a particular focus on reaching marginalised and BAME communities who are often underserved.
cysters.orgFibroids Forum UK
Community support and advocacy, with an active focus on reaching Black women who are disproportionately affected by uterine fibroids and face greater delays in diagnosis and access to treatment.
fibroidforumuk.orgBritish Fibroid Trust
UK charity run by volunteers providing information, support, and signposting for people living with uterine fibroids. Advocates for access to a full range of treatment options including non-surgical interventions.
britishfibroidtrust.org.ukNAPS – National Association for PMS
The leading UK resource for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Provides information, self-assessment tools, and guidance on treatment options including hormonal therapies.
pms.org.ukThe PMDD Project
The UK’s first charity dedicated solely to Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, a cyclical, hormone-based mood disorder affecting around 5% of people with ovaries. Raises awareness, provides peer support, and funds research.
thepmddproject.orgPelvic Pain Support Network
Provides information and peer support for people living with chronic pelvic pain, covering endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, vulvodynia, and other pelvic pain conditions.
pelvicpain.org.ukPOGP – Pelvic, Obstetric & Gynaecological Physiotherapy
The specialist body for pelvic health physiotherapy in the UK. Provides patient information on pelvic floor dysfunction, prolapse, incontinence, and pain. Use their directory to find a specialist physiotherapist.
thepogp.co.ukVaginismus Network
Online community and support resource for those experiencing vaginismus and related pelvic floor conditions. Provides peer support, personal stories, and signposting to specialist physiotherapy and psychosexual therapy.
thevaginismusnetwork.comThe Vulval Pain Society
UK charity supporting women with vulvodynia, vestibulodynia, and other chronic vulval pain conditions. Provides patient leaflets, a support network, and information on treatment pathways.
vulvalpainsociety.orgBladder & Bowel UK
National charity providing information and support for people living with bladder and bowel conditions, including stress incontinence and overactive bladder – conditions that disproportionately affect women, particularly postnatally and post-menopause.
bbuk.org.ukWellbeing of Women
One of the UK’s leading research funders for gynaecological and reproductive health, including menopause. Campaigns for women’s health to be taken seriously by government and the NHS.
wellbeingofwomen.org.ukWomen’s Cancers
Breast · Ovarian · Cervical · Vulval · Vaginal · Genetic Risk
Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Now
The UK’s largest breast cancer charity, formed from the merger of Breast Cancer Now and Breast Cancer Care. Provides specialist nurse support, trusted clinical information, and funds pioneering research. Over 3 million people reach their services each year.
breastcancernow.orgCoppaFeel!
The UK’s youth-focused breast cancer awareness charity, best known for campaigns encouraging regular self-checking. Provides resources for schools and educators and runs outreach to normalise early detection.
coppafeel.orgBreast Cancer UK
Focuses specifically on the environmental and lifestyle causes of breast cancer. Campaigns on chemical exposures and diet, and funds prevention research.
breastcanceruk.org.ukFlat Friends UK
Supports women who choose to live without reconstruction after mastectomy. Online community, information on research, fashion ideas, and personal stories for those making this choice.
flatfriends.org.ukHereditary Breast Cancer Helpline
Provides support and information for anyone concerned about hereditary breast cancer or carrying the BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutation.
Tel: 01629 813000 (8am–10pm)
Ovarian Cancer
Target Ovarian Cancer
Works to improve early diagnosis, fund life-saving research, and provide nurse-led support to women with ovarian cancer. Runs an online community and hosts UK-wide events.
targetovariancancer.org.ukOvacome
The national UK ovarian cancer support charity offering multilingual resources, a free helpline, and a community of thousands working together to reduce isolation and share information.
ovacome.org.ukOvarian Cancer Action
Has invested over £11.4 million in research. Campaigns for access to genetic testing and improved treatment, especially for BRCA carriers.
ovarian.org.ukGynaecological Cancers (Womb, Ovarian, Cervical, Vulval, Vaginal)
The Eve Appeal
The UK’s national gynaecological cancer research charity. Runs the ‘Ask Eve’ nurse information service and funds specialist research.
eveappeal.org.ukLady Garden Foundation
A UK’s charity dedicated solely to raising awareness of all five gynaecological cancers. Funds research and campaigns to break the taboo around gynaecological health, encouraging women to know their bodies and seek help early.
ladygardenfoundation.comGO Girls
National charity supporting women with any gynaecological cancer. Offers a private online peer support group, awareness campaigns, and advocacy for better diagnosis and treatments.
gogirlssupport.orgGRACE Charity
Gynaecological Research and Clinical Evaluation is funding research into improving recovery and survival rates for gynaecological cancers, working with NHS clinical teams.
grace-charity.org.ukPelvic Radiation Disease Association
Patient-led group supporting those with pelvic radiation disease, a late effect of radiotherapy treatment for gynaecological and other pelvic cancers. Campaigns for better recognition and treatment.
prda.org.ukGenetic Risk & Hereditary Cancer
BRCA Chat
A national peer support charity for those with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, including those facing decisions about preventive surgery, surveillance, and fertility. Provides support groups, blogs, and newsletters.
brcachat.comLynch Syndrome UK
Supports people with Lynch Syndrome, a hereditary condition that significantly increases risk of colorectal, uterine, and ovarian cancers. Provides information, awareness, and a patient community.
lynch-syndrome-uk.orgGeneral Cancer Support
Support, research, and practical help for all cancer types, beyond condition-specific groups.
Cancer Research UK
The largest independent cancer research charity in the world. Funds scientists, doctors, and nurses to help beat cancer sooner, and provides comprehensive patient and carer information across all cancer types.
cancerresearchuk.orgMacmillan Cancer Support
Founded 1911. In 2024, Macmillan’s services reached an estimated 2.4 million people affected by cancer. Provides practical, medical, financial, and emotional support through a free helpline, Macmillan nurses, and over 600 information centres in NHS hospitals.
macmillan.org.ukMaggie’s Centres
A national network of drop-in centres beside NHS cancer hospitals, each designed by a renowned architect and staffed by specialist psychologists, benefits advisers, and nurses.
maggies.orgMarie Curie
Runs 9 hospices across the UK and provides free 24-hour home nursing care to people with terminal illness through the Marie Curie Nursing Service. Also provides a free support line for patients and families.
mariecurie.org.ukBlood Cancer UK
The leading UK charity for leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and other blood cancers. Funds research, provides a patient helpline, and runs the Blood Cancer Voice Network for patient involvement in research.
bloodcancer.org.ukLymphoma Action
The UK’s only charity dedicated solely to lymphoma, one of the most common cancers. Provides a helpline, patient information, online communities, and support groups for those with Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
lymphoma-action.org.ukMyeloma UK
The UK’s only charity dedicated exclusively to myeloma. Provides a specialist helpline, patient groups, clinical trial support, and funds dedicated research. A widely respected patient voice in the haematology community.
myeloma.org.ukPancreatic Cancer UK
The leading UK charity for pancreatic cancer. Provides specialist nurse support, funds research, campaigns for faster diagnosis, and runs online support groups for patients and families facing this challenging diagnosis.
pancreaticcancer.org.ukThe Brain Tumour Charity
The world’s largest dedicated brain tumour charity. Funds research, runs support groups, provides a helpline, and campaigns for faster diagnosis of brain tumours across all age groups.
thebraintumourcharity.orgBowel Cancer UK
The UK’s leading bowel cancer charity. Provides a nurse-led helpline, patient information, and campaigns for earlier diagnosis and better access to treatment, including for younger patients often missed by screening.
bowelcanceruk.org.ukPenny Brohn UK
Offers whole-person complementary care and support to people with cancer and their families, using the Bristol Whole Life Approach – covering emotional wellbeing, nutrition, and practical support alongside NHS treatment.
pennybrohn.org.ukTeenage & Young Adult Cancer
Around 2,300 young people are diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK. Young people have very different needs to older adults – these organisations provide age-appropriate, specialist support.
Teenage Cancer Trust
Builds and funds specialist teenage units in NHS hospitals, trains specialist youth workers and nurses, and provides information written specifically for young people.
teenagecancertrust.orgYoung Lives vs Cancer (formerly CLIC Sargent)
Provides clinical, practical, financial, and emotional support for children, teenagers, and young people with cancer and their families. Runs live chat, phone, and email support for anyone under 25. Has social workers embedded in NHS cancer centres.
younglivesvscancer.org.ukChildren with Cancer UK
Funds research projects at centres of excellence across the UK to improve treatment for children and young people with cancer. Also organises free days out for families and funds practical support grants.
childrenwithcancer.org.ukShine Cancer Support
Creates a community for young adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s with cancer. Runs Shine Camp, Shine Connect conference, and workshops on topics including working after cancer, fertility, and mental health.
shinecancersupport.orgTeens Unite Fighting Cancer
The only UK organisation providing ongoing support to 13–24 year olds during and after cancer. Offers concerts, sports events, art and beauty workshops, and a residential respite centre in Hertfordshire.
teensunite.orgTrekstock
Providing physical and mental wellbeing services specifically for those in their 20s and 30s. Services include the RENEW Exercise Programme, menopause support, a Lifting the Lid events series, and in-person meet-ups.
trekstock.comYouth Cancer Trust
Provides free holidays to young cancer patients aged 18–30 attending any hospital in the UK or Ireland, giving them a vital break from treatment and a chance to connect with peers going through similar experiences.
youthcancertrust.orgEllen MacArthur Cancer Trust
Inspires young people aged 8–24 to believe in a brighter future through sailing and outdoor adventures. Helps rebuild independence, confidence, and purpose after cancer treatment, particularly for those who can no longer return to their pre-cancer life.
ellenmacarthurcancertrust.orgThe Little Princess Trust
Provides free real hair wigs for children and young people up to the age of 24 – with personal fitting, styling, and Afro-textured options. Also funds childhood cancer research.
littleprincesses.org.ukCCLG – Children & Young People’s Cancer Association
Works to coordinate national and international clinical trials for children and young people with cancer. Funds research and provides trusted information for families. Formed from the merger of the Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group and Teenagers and Young Adults with Cancer (TYAC).
cclg.org.ukMenopause & Hormonal Health
Perimenopause · HRT guidance · Premature Ovarian Insufficiency · Early menopause · Workplace support
British Menopause Society (BMS)
The clinical authority setting NHS standards for menopause care across the UK. Provides evidence-based guidance for both healthcare professionals and patients, and trains NHS staff in menopause management.
thebms.org.ukWomen’s Health Concern
The patient arm of the British Menopause Society, providing unbiased, clinician-reviewed information on menopause, HRT, and related conditions. Produces downloadable factsheets and runs a patient helpline.
womens-health-concern.orgMenopause Support
Leads the #MakeMenopauseMatter campaign, which was instrumental in changing UK government policy on HRT prescriptions. Provides a wide range of support resources and community networks.
menopausesupport.co.ukMenopause Matters
Independent website providing clinician-reviewed, up-to-date information on menopause symptoms, HRT options, and non-hormonal treatments. Widely used and referenced by NHS professionals.
menopausematters.co.ukThe Daisy Network
The UK’s specialist charity for Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), supporting women who enter menopause before the age of 40 – affecting fertility and long-term health in unique ways. Provides information, a helpline, and peer support groups.
daisynetwork.orgMenopause Café
Pop-up events running worldwide – including across the UK – for open, informal conversations about menopause with no agenda, no selling, and no prescriptions. A safe space to share and learn.
menopausecafe.netPregnancy, Fertility & Loss
Miscarriage · Stillbirth · Infertility · IVF · Premature Birth · Maternal Safety · Antenatal Choices
Tommy’s
Funds research into miscarriage, stillbirth, and premature birth and runs NHS-linked midwife-led pregnancy support clinics. Provides expert information and a midwife helpline for anyone with pregnancy concerns.
tommys.orgSands
The UK’s leading stillbirth and neonatal death charity. Provides bereavement support, a national helpline, local support groups, and memory boxes. Also campaigns to improve bereavement care across the NHS.
sands.org.ukMiscarriage UK (formerly known as Miscarriage Association)
Support and information for those affected by miscarriage, molar pregnancy, and ectopic pregnancy. Provides a helpline, email support, online communities, and leaflets used by NHS trusts across the UK.
miscarriageassociation.org.ukFertility Action
A UK national fertility charity supporting the 3.5 million people affected by infertility, sub-fertility, and secondary infertility. Offers peer support groups, trusted resources, and workplace education, while actively campaigning in Parliament to end the IVF postcode lottery and improve access to NHS-funded treatment.
fertilityaction.orgBliss
The UK charity for babies born premature or sick. Provides family support, specialist nurse information, and campaigns for better neonatal care standards. Vital for parents navigating NICU.
bliss.org.ukBaby Lifeline
National charity dedicated to making maternity care safer for mothers and babies. Delivers training programmes to NHS maternity teams and campaigns for improved standards and accountability.
babylifeline.org.ukMake Birth Better
A network of parents and professionals working together to address birth trauma and improve perinatal safety. Provides resources for both those affected and the practitioners supporting them.
makebirthbetter.orgARC – Antenatal Results & Choices
Non-directive information and support for anyone facing difficult prenatal screening or diagnostic results. Provides a helpline, leaflets, and trained befrienders for those navigating termination for medical reasons.
arc-uk.orgChild Bereavement UK
Supports families and educates professionals when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying, and when a child is bereaved. Provides direct services, training, and a national helpline.
childbereavementuk.orgGestational Diabetes UK
Dedicated to supporting women diagnosed with gestational diabetes during pregnancy, affecting around 1 in 20 UK pregnancies. Provides evidence-based dietary guidance, peer support, and awareness resources.
gestationaldiabetes.co.ukPerinatal & Women’s Mental Health
Postnatal Depression · Postpartum Psychosis · Birth Trauma · Anxiety in Pregnancy · PTSD
Maternal Mental Health Alliance (MMHA)
The UK’s national coalition of over 100 organisations campaigning for every woman to have access to quality perinatal mental health care. Led by women with lived experience. Drives NHS policy and commissioning standards.
maternalmentalhealthalliance.orgPANDAS Foundation
The leading UK charity for perinatal mental health, supporting parents experiencing PND, postnatal anxiety, PTSD, and related conditions. Offers a helpline, peer support groups, and online community.
pandasfoundation.org.ukAction on Postpartum Psychosis (APP)
The UK’s only national charity focused on postpartum psychosis, a rare but serious psychiatric emergency. Provides peer support from women with lived experience, information for families, and professional training.
app-network.orgBirth Trauma Association
The UK’s leading support organisation for women suffering from PTSD and trauma following a difficult or frightening birth experience. Provides information, peer support, and therapist directories.
birthtraumaassociation.orgSafety, Violence & Sexual Health
Domestic Abuse · Sexual Violence · FGM · Honour-Based Abuse · Sexual Health Services
Women’s Aid
The national charity working to end domestic abuse. Runs the Survivor’s Forum, provides direct services, and funds local refuges and outreach services. A key voice in government policy on coercive control and VAWG.
womensaid.org.ukRefuge
Runs the National Domestic Abuse Helpline (0808 2000 247 – free, 24/7) and the largest network of specialist services for women and children escaping domestic abuse, including safe houses, IDVA services, and online tools.
refuge.org.ukRape Crisis England & Wales
The national organisation for specialist sexual violence support services. Runs the National Rape Crisis Helpline, funds local centres, and campaigns for improved legal and NHS responses to sexual violence.
rapecrisis.org.ukFORWARD
An African women-led organisation working to end Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and child marriage. Provides support and advocacy, and trains health professionals and community workers across the UK.
forwarduk.org.ukKarma Nirvana
Runs the national Honour Based Abuse Helpline (0800 5999 247) supporting victims and survivors of forced marriage and honour-based abuse. Provides training for police, schools, and social services.
karmanirvana.org.ukBrook
Provides free, confidential sexual health and wellbeing services to young people under 25 – including contraception, STI testing, pregnancy advice, and relationship support. Runs clinics across the UK and offers extensive online resources.
brook.org.ukRevenge Porn Helpline
Free, confidential support and practical help for adults who have had intimate images shared without consent (also known as image-based sexual abuse). Supports victims in having images removed.
revengepornhelpline.org.ukPaladin – National Stalking Advocacy Service
Specialist, free advocacy service for high-risk victims of stalking in the UK. Provides case management support and works with police and courts to keep victims safe.
paladinservice.co.ukAutoimmune Conditions
Women account for approximately 80% of all autoimmune disease cases. The organisations below provide condition-specific support, advocacy, and research funding.
Systemic & Connective Tissue Conditions
Lupus UK
The only national registered UK charity supporting people with systemic and discoid lupus. Lupus affects women nine times more than men. Provides a helpline, regional support groups, an online forum with over 32,000 members, and a research grant programme.
lupusuk.org.ukScleroderma & Raynaud’s UK (SRUK)
The UK’s leading charity for scleroderma and Raynaud’s phenomenon. Runs support groups across the UK led by volunteer support leaders, provides patient information, and campaigns for improved NHS care.
sruk.co.ukSjögren’s UK (BSSA)
Founded 1986. A self-help organisation with around 2,300 members dedicated to providing support for Sjögren’s disease, which affects nine times more women than men. Runs regional support groups, a helpline, and a quarterly newsletter.
sjogrensuk.orgMyositis UK
The UK charity for all forms of myositis; dermatomyositis, polymyositis, and inclusion body myositis. Provides a helpline, patient information, regional groups, and funds research into these rare inflammatory muscle diseases.
myositis.org.ukVasculitis UK
Patient-led charity for all forms of vasculitis, including ANCA vasculitis, GCA, Behçet’s, and Takayasu arteritis. Member of the Rare Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases Alliance (RAIRDA) and European patient advocacy networks.
vasculitis.org.ukBehçet’s Syndrome Society
Supports and represents over 1,350 members affected by Behçet’s disease. Provides helplines, newsletters, and makes research and welfare grants. Behçet’s UK now has dedicated NHS Centres of Excellence.
behcets.org.ukRAIRDA – Rare Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases Alliance
An alliance of UK patient charities for people living with rare autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Members include SRUK, Vasculitis UK, Myositis UK, Lupus UK and others. Advocates collectively for improved NHS care.
rairda.orgInflammatory Arthritis
Arthritis UK (formerly Versus Arthritis)
The UK’s largest arthritis charity, formed in 2018 from the merger of Arthritis Research UK and Arthritis Care. Around 10 million people in the UK have arthritis. Provides support, research funding, and NHS campaigns.
arthritis-uk.orgNRAS – National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society
Specialist support and information specifically for people with rheumatoid arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis. Provides a helpline, patient resources, and campaigns for earlier diagnosis and better biologics access.
nras.org.ukNASS – National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society
The only UK registered charity dedicated to axial spondyloarthritis (AS). More than 200,000 people in the UK have axial SpA. Runs 95 branches offering physiotherapy, information, and peer support.
nass.co.ukPsoriasis Association
The UK’s leading patient-focused charity for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Provides information, campaigns for better treatments, and supports research into this common autoimmune skin condition.
psoriasis-association.org.ukNeurological Autoimmune Conditions
MS Society
The UK’s largest MS charity, with 29,000 members, 250+ local groups, and 5,500 volunteers. MS affects three times as many women as men. Funds research and provides support across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Founded 1953.
mssociety.org.ukMS Trust
Focused on MS support and education, particularly for healthcare professionals and newly diagnosed patients. Works alongside the MS Society to improve care standards and produces widely used MS nursing resources.
mstrust.org.ukMyaware (MGA)
The UK charity for myasthenia gravis and related neuromuscular autoimmune conditions. MG disproportionately affects women in their 20s–30s. Provides a helpline, specialist information, patient networking and research support.
myaware.orgSumaira Foundation UK / Transverse Myelitis Society
Support for rare neuroimmune conditions including NMOSD (Neuromyelitis Optica), transverse myelitis, MOG antibody disease, and acute flaccid myelitis.
myelitis.org.ukGastrointestinal Autoimmune
Crohn’s & Colitis UK
Founded 1979. Supports over 500,000 people with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and other forms of IBD. Provides patient information, a helpline, local support groups, and funds research into causes and treatments.
crohnsandcolitis.org.ukCoeliac UK
The UK’s leading charity for coeliac disease, an autoimmune condition affecting around 1 in 100 people. Provides dietary guidance, advocates for better food labelling, and supports over 60,000 members through information and a helpline.
coeliac.org.ukPBC Foundation
The only UK charity dedicated solely to Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC), an autoimmune liver disease that affects women nine times more than men. Provides a specialist helpline, peer support, and patient literature.
pbcfoundation.org.ukEndocrine Autoimmune Conditions
Diabetes UK
The UK’s largest diabetes charity. Women with Type 1 diabetes face specific challenges around pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations, and menopause affecting glucose management. Provides a helpline, research funding, and a support community.
diabetes.org.ukBreakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF)
The leading global funder of Type 1 diabetes research. Women with T1D face distinct challenges including pregnancy planning, hypoglycaemia unawareness, and hormonal impacts on insulin sensitivity. Runs UK advocacy programmes.
breakthrought1d.org.ukAddison’s Disease Self-Help Group (ADSHG)
Founded 1984. Works to improve the lives of people with Addison’s disease, an autoimmune adrenal condition. Produces emergency guidance for paramedics, runs a member magazine, and has over 28,000 social media followers.
addisonsdisease.org.ukBritish Thyroid Foundation (BTF)
Thyroid disorders, including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, affect women 5-10 times more than men. The BTF provides patient information, support groups, and advocates for better NHS care and testing standards.
btf-thyroid.orgThyroid UK
Patient-led charity running campaigns against under-diagnosis and under-treatment of hypothyroidism. Advocates for access to combination thyroid therapy and improved NHS testing protocols for thyroid conditions.
thyroiduk.orgSkin & Dermatological Autoimmune Conditions
Eczema UK
The UK charity for everyone affected by eczema. Provides expert information, campaigns for better treatments, and supports research. Runs a patient helpline and produces information used across the NHS.
eczema.orgAlopecia UK
The UK charity for alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition causing hair loss. Provides support groups, a helpline, information on treatment options including JAK inhibitors, and youth-specific resources.
alopecia.org.ukPulmonary & Respiratory Autoimmune Conditions
Pulmonary Hypertension Association UK (PHA UK)
The UK’s leading patient support organisation for pulmonary hypertension (PH), a rare but serious condition affecting the heart and lungs. PH is more common in women, particularly those with connective tissue diseases such as scleroderma and lupus.
phauk.orgAction for Pulmonary Fibrosis
UK charity supporting people with pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease (ILD) which can occur as a complication of autoimmune conditions including scleroderma, myositis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
actionpf.orgSarcoidosis UK
UK patient charity for sarcoidosis, an inflammatory condition that can affect multiple organs including the lungs. Provides peer support, patient information, and funds research through specialist clinical centres.
sarcoidosisuk.orgBone Health & Musculoskeletal
Royal Osteoporosis Society (ROS)
The UK’s only national charity dedicated to bone health. 80% of those with osteoporosis are women, with risk increasing sharply after menopause. Provides a specialist nurse helpline, research, and advocates for bone density scanning access.
theros.org.ukFibromyalgia Action UK
UK charity supporting people with fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition with significant overlap with autoimmune disease. Provides information, peer support networks, and advocates for better NHS recognition and treatment.
fmauk.orgWellbeing Support Across All Autoimmune Conditions
The Wren Project
The only UK charity offering free mental health support specifically to people with any autoimmune disease. Provides empathetic listening support for the emotional impact of diagnosis, a service not available through the NHS for this group.
wrenproject.orgCardiovascular Health and Stroke
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women in the UK – yet women’s symptoms are more frequently missed or misattributed. These organisations provide support, research, and advocacy.
British Heart Foundation (BHF)
Funds research into heart disease in women, whose symptoms present differently from men’s and are more frequently missed by clinicians. Provides resources for patients and professionals, and runs a cardiac nurse helpline.
bhf.org.ukHeart UK
The cholesterol charity, supporting people at risk of Familial Hypercholesterolaemia (FH) and cardiovascular disease. FH is significantly under-diagnosed in women. Provides a helpline, dietitian support, and campaigns for cascade testing.
heartuk.org.ukStroke Association
Women have a higher lifetime risk of stroke than men – partly linked to pregnancy, the combined pill, and hormonal factors. The Stroke Association provides UK-wide rehabilitation support, campaigns for faster diagnosis, and funds research.
stroke.org.ukSCAD Research
Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection primarily affects women under 50 with no conventional risk factors — often occurring around pregnancy. This charity funds dedicated research and supports those affected.
scadresearch.orgHeart Failure Matters (ESC)
Patient information resource from the European Society of Cardiology for those living with heart failure. Women are more likely to develop heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a form often misdiagnosed.
heartfailurematters.orgArrhythmia Alliance
UK charity supporting people with heart rhythm disorders. Women with arrhythmias are frequently told their symptoms are anxiety. The Alliance campaigns for parity and provides information, events, and a patient community.
heartrhythmalliance.orgOther Conditions Disproportionally Affecting Women
Dementia · Neurological · Eating Disorders · Chronic Fatigue · Rare Conditions
Dementia & Neurological – Two-thirds of people with dementia are women
Alzheimer’s Society
The UK’s leading dementia charity. Women make up two-thirds of all people living with Alzheimer’s in the UK. Provides a national helpline, local support groups, specialist information, and funds breakthrough research.
alzheimers.org.ukAlzheimer’s Research UK
Dedicated to finding a prevention and cure for dementia. Growing focus on sex and gender differences in Alzheimer’s pathology, and the role of hormonal factors including oestrogen in brain health.
alzheimersresearchuk.orgDementia UK
Provides specialist Admiral Nurses – the only specialist dementia nurses in the UK – for families facing the most difficult aspects of dementia. Vital for the large number of women who are both patients and primary carers.
dementiauk.orgEpilepsy Society
Epilepsy has specific implications for women around hormonal changes, contraception, pregnancy, and menopause. The Epilepsy Society provides specialist information, a helpline, and clinical research.
epilepsysociety.org.ukThe Migraine Trust
Migraine is three times more common in women than men, strongly linked to hormonal fluctuations. The Migraine Trust provides a helpline, information on hormonal migraine, and campaigns for better treatment access.
migrainetrust.orgEating Disorders
Beat – Eating Disorders Charity
The UK’s leading eating disorder charity. Beat operates a helpline, a youthline, a studentline, and online support groups. Particularly critical for women and girls, who make up the majority of those affected by anorexia, bulimia, and ARFID.
beateatingdisorders.org.ukFirst Steps ED
UK eating disorder charity providing free online recovery resources, webinars, and community support. Works particularly with those who cannot access or are waiting for NHS treatment.
firststepsed.co.ukChronic Fatigue & Dysautonomia
ME Association
The UK’s leading ME/CFS charity. Myalgic encephalomyelitis disproportionately affects women and is frequently dismissed. Provides patient information, a helpline, and funds biomedical research into this debilitating condition.
meassociation.org.ukAdvocacy
The Lowdown
The UK’s largest patient review platform for contraception and hormonal health, giving women evidence-based, real-world data about the side effects of different contraceptive options.
thelowdown.comYoung Girls & Teenagers’ Health
Mental health · Eating disorders · Sexual health · Menstrual health · Body image · Wellbeing.
In this section, you can find organisations that specifically help younger, girls and women.
Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing
YoungMinds
The UK’s leading charity fighting for children and young people’s mental health. Provides a crisis text line, parent helpline, online resources, and campaigns for better CAMHS provision. Widely recognised and recommended by NHS services.
youngminds.org.ukChildline
Free, confidential online and telephone counselling for anyone under 18, covering mental health, body image, abuse, sexual health, self-harm, and more. Available 24/7.
childline.org.ukThe Mix
The UK’s digital charity for under 25s, covering mental health, body image, relationships, sexual health, eating, and self-harm. Provides a helpline, webchat, counselling, and online community. Helps over 2.5 million young people each year.
themix.org.ukKooth
A free, safe, and anonymous online mental health and wellbeing platform for ages 11–25. Accessible via phone or desktop without a GP referral. Commissioned by NHS organisations across England.
kooth.comstem4
A charity supporting teenage mental health through information, education, and a suite of free apps – including CalmHarm (self-harm), Clear Fear (anxiety), Move Mood (depression), and Combined Minds (family support). Founder of Youth Mental Health Day.
stem4.org.ukSexual Health & Relationships
Brook
Provides free, confidential sexual health and wellbeing services for young people under 25. Covers contraception, STI testing, pregnancy advice, consent, and relationships. Runs clinics across the UK and offers extensive online resources for teenage girls.
brook.org.ukTender
UK charity using arts-based education to prevent domestic abuse and sexual violence among young people. Delivers programmes in schools helping young women recognise healthy and unhealthy relationship patterns.
tender.org.ukMenstrual Health & Period Poverty
Plan International UK
Tackles the ‘toxic trio’ around periods: cost, lack of education, and stigma. Campaigns on period poverty in UK schools and globally, helps improve access to products, safe toilets, and menstrual health education for girls.
plan-uk.orgBody Image, Confidence & Wellbeing
Dove Self-Esteem Project (UK)
The world’s largest provider of self-esteem and body confidence education for young people – with free, evidence-based workshops for schools covering body image, media literacy, and emotional resilience. Specifically designed with and for teenage girls.
dove.com/uk/dove-self-esteem-projectThis Girl Can (Sport England)
The UK’s award-winning campaign tackling the gender gap in sport and physical activity. Provides resources, events, and a community encouraging girls and women of all ages and abilities to be active regardless of how they look or feel.
thisgirlcan.co.ukMental Health Support
The UK’s largest and most impactful mental health organisations for adults. If you are in immediate crisis, please see the Crisis & Emergency section below.
Broad Mental Health Support
Mind
The UK’s largest mental health charity with annual income of £192 million. Covers depression, anxiety, psychosis, eating disorders, and more. Runs a helpline, peer support groups, 100+ local Mind branches, workplace training, and was instrumental in Mental Health Act reforms.
mind.org.ukSamaritans
Provides a safe space to talk 24/7, 365 days a year about anything that’s troubling you. You do not have to be suicidal to call. Over 20,000 volunteers across 200+ UK branches. Free to call on 116 123 from any phone.
samaritans.orgRethink Mental Illness
Runs 90 mental health services including support for carers, helplines, and advocacy. Operates over 140 in-person and online support groups. Provides expert information on rights, laws, and living with conditions including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
rethink.orgMental Health Foundation
One of the UK’s leading mental health research and policy charities, operating across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Runs Mental Health Awareness Week and develops evidence-based prevention programmes used by the NHS and government.
mentalhealth.org.ukMental Health UK
Works through four national member charities to provide local support across all four UK nations. Also runs a dedicated Mental Health & Money Advice service — helping those whose mental health is affected by financial difficulty.
mentalhealth-uk.orgSuicide Prevention & Crisis Text
CALM – Campaign Against Living Miserably
A suicide prevention charity fighting to reduce the devastating impact of suicide in the UK. Runs a free helpline (0800 58 58 58) and webchat, open every day 5pm to midnight. Also offers a broad range of mental health resources and campaigns.
thecalmzone.netShout 85258
The UK’s first and only 24/7 free, confidential mental health text service. Text SHOUT to 85258 to be connected to a trained volunteer. Has handled over 2 million conversations. Ideal for those who cannot or do not want to speak on the phone.
giveusashout.orgCondition-Specific Mental Health
Anxiety UK
Founded 1970. The UK’s leading anxiety charity supporting GAD, social anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, health anxiety, and agoraphobia. Provides a helpline, therapy referrals, online support groups, and a membership community.
anxietyuk.org.ukSANE
Founded 1986 by Marjorie Wallace. Works to improve quality of life for those affected by mental illness through the SANEline (0300 304 7000, 4:30pm–10pm daily), research, and campaigning to reduce stigma around schizophrenia and psychosis.
sane.org.ukOCD Action
The UK’s largest OCD charity. Provides a helpline, information on treatment including ERP therapy, online support groups, and campaigns for better NHS OCD provision. Vital resource given how frequently OCD is misdiagnosed, particularly in women.
ocdaction.org.ukPTSD UK
Provides information, support, and awareness for people living with PTSD and Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), conditions that disproportionately affect women due to higher rates of sexual trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
ptsduk.orgBipolar UK
Empowers people affected by bipolar disorder. Provides peer support groups, an eCommunity, and a helpline. Bipolar disorder has gender-specific presentation differences, including higher rates of rapid cycling in women.
bipolaruk.orgScottish Action for Mental Health
Scotland’s leading mental health charity – a distinct organisation from Mind. Provides community-based services, peer support, information, and advocacy tailored to the Scottish healthcare context and Mental Health (Care and Treatment) Act.
samh.org.ukInspire Wellbeing
Northern Ireland’s leading mental health and wellbeing charity, operating in the distinct healthcare context of the Northern Ireland Assembly. Provides counselling, advocacy, residential services, and an employee assistance programme.
inspirewellbeing.orgCrisis & Emergency Support
If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, always call 999. For urgent but non-emergency medical help, call 111. The services below provide 24/7 crisis support across different needs.
Life-Threatening Emergency
If your life – or someone else’s life – is at immediate risk, call the emergency services right now. Do not delay.
999Police · Ambulance · Fire · Coastguard
NHS 111
For urgent medical help that is not an emergency. Speak to a trained adviser who can direct you to the right service, including out-of-hours GP, emergency dentist, urgent care centre, or mental health crisis team.
NHS Mental Health Crisis Line
Call 111 and select option 2 to be connected directly to a mental health professional. Available 24/7 and can provide immediate support or arrange urgent face-to-face assessment across England.
Samaritans
Free to call from any phone, any time, any day. A safe, confidential space to talk about anything that’s troubling you. You do not have to be suicidal to call — they support anyone in emotional distress.
Shout 85258
Free, anonymous text-based crisis support. Text if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, abuse, self-harm, or any mental health crisis. A trained volunteer will respond – usually within 5 minutes.
CALM Helpline & Webchat
Free helpline for anyone affected by suicidal feelings. Also available via webchat. Open every day from 5pm to midnight. CALM’s campaign work focuses on breaking the silence around suicide.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Run by Refuge. Provides support, guidance, and refuge referrals for women experiencing domestic abuse. Free to call from any phone. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
Rape Crisis Helpline
Specialist support for anyone affected by sexual violence, including historic abuse. Provides a safe, confidential space and can help you access local specialist services. Run by Rape Crisis England & Wales.
Papyrus HOPELINE247
Dedicated to preventing young suicide. Provides confidential support for young people under 35 experiencing suicidal thoughts, and for anyone concerned about a young person. Also available by text (text PAPYRUS to 88247).
Childline
Free, confidential support for anyone under 18. Available by phone, online chat, and email. Covers abuse, bullying, mental health, sexual health, family problems, and anything else a young person needs to talk about.
NHS A&E
For mental health crises requiring urgent in-person assessment – or any physical medical emergency. Ask to be seen by the psychiatric liaison or mental health crisis team. You do not need a referral.
NHS guidance box – When to use which service
- Call 999 – if your life or someone else’s is at immediate risk
- Call 111 – for urgent but non-emergency medical help, including mental health crises
- Go to A&E – if you are in mental health crisis and need immediate in-person support
- Call your GP – for same-day urgent appointments; GPs can arrange emergency mental health assessments
- Call 116 123 (Samaritans) – for emotional support at any time, no emergency needed
- Text 85258 (Shout) – if you cannot or do not want to speak out loud
- Call 0808 2000 247 – if you are in an abusive situation and need immediate safety advice
- Visit 111.nhs.uk – to find your nearest urgent care centre, out-of-hours GP, or mental health crisis service
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