Is Mermaids still able to support people in need?

Yes, our helpline, webchat, email support and text support services are operating as normal. Our dedicated team of staff and volunteers are determined to offer more support not less during this period of uncertainty. However, some services which rely on group meetings and activities have had to be postponed or cancelled in the best interests of our service users, volunteers and staff.

What services are closed or postponed?

We have taken the difficult but necessary decision to cancel or postpone all group events or appearances with immediate effect to allow people to self-isolate and minimise risk.

For the latest information on changes or cancellations relating to events including residentials, please refer to our events page.

Unfortunately, other cancellations and postponements until further notice include:

– Local Mermaids groups: For more information email: [email protected]
– Training sessions. For more information email: [email protected]
– Public events / appearances including Pride events until further notification
– Broadcast media contributions unless via video link or phone from isolation

Can Mermaids advise me on how to cope with Covid-19?

For all medical advice, go to www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or, if your symptoms are worsening, Government advice is to call 111.

We do realise, however, that this situation may lead to other non-medical issues in people’s day-to-day lives, including an increase in feelings of isolation, distress and anxiety. We are here to offer non-medical support and reassurance at this time and encourage you to contact us if you are in need.

How is the Mermaids team affected?

Right now, we’re focusing on protecting core services such as webchat, helpline and email support. In the meantime, we’re making sure that staff and volunteers are safe and able to take necessary precautions. 

Our objective hasn’t changed: we’re working from home but still staying positive and strong over video chats and phone calls and we’ll carry on doing everything we can to support and reassure those needing our support.

What can you do to help?

Number 1: Look after yourself and your loved ones. Take calm, sensible advice from the NHS and other public bodies. Try to avoid viewing too much material online via news outlets and social media. This content can cause distress and anxiety so it’s often healthier to speak to trusted friends and family members and focus on official sources of information.

I know a way you can help!

We would love to know if there’s something you need from us at this difficult time that we’re not already offering. We are asking for feedback and ideas, and if you can fill in this online survey, we would be really grateful. As always, please continue to access our helpline, email and webchat service for support as needed.

Do you still need donations?

Yes, more than ever. While donations are harder to give for many people in uncertain times, financial support at this point is vital. For those who can, you will make a huge difference.

I was planning to fundraise for Mermaids – what do I do?

If it’s still safe to fundraise, please do! However, If you have been planning a fundraising activity which might be affected by COVID-19, please refer to Government guidelines and event organisers and if you’re in doubt email: [email protected].

I am a journalist seeking information

All media enquiries must be emailed to [email protected]. 

Please note, we will not be attending any broadcast studios until further notice so appearances must be via the telephone or online platforms.

I have a question not answered above. Where can I go for more information?

Please email [email protected] if you have a non-urgent question and we will reply as soon as possible. We are expecting an increase in the volume of emails so please forgive us for any delay.

If you are seeking emergency medical advice, please follow your normal procedures with healthcare professionals and, for COVID-19 related issues, go to www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or – depending on your symptoms – call 111.

For support, please contact our helpline services which can be found on our website here.