"Is it too early / too late to call?"
Neither. Families call us at every stage — from quiet worry to crisis. Calling early does not commit you to anything; it simply means you have accurate information sooner. Calling late is equally worthwhile: it is rarely too late for a first structured conversation.
"Will we be judged for what's happened?"
No. The people who answer our helpline speak with families every day who are exhausted, frightened and ashamed of things that are, in truth, simply part of this illness. You will be treated with respect from the first minute. See how we handle enquiries on our family support page.
"What information should we have before calling?"
Very little is required. It helps to know roughly how long the situation has been going on, what has been tried before, and what you are most worried about. You do not need reports, documents or a diagnosis. And you can stay anonymous on a first call if you prefer.
"What will the centre actually ask us to do?"
The first step is only a conversation. We listen, answer questions and explain which of our services may suit your situation. Any next step happens only with the family's agreement — nobody is signed up for anything during a first enquiry.
"Should the person struggling be involved in the call?"
Either way works. Some first calls are made entirely by the family; some are made together; some individuals call for themselves after a family member first spoke with us. Do whatever feels manageable — guidance on involving a reluctant loved one is part of what we offer.
"What about privacy — will the neighbours know?"
Enquiries are private. You choose how you contact us — by phone from anywhere, by message, or by form — and nothing about your enquiry is shared outside our authorised team. Personal information is handled as described in our privacy policy.
"What if we're not sure it's really a problem?"
That uncertainty is one of the most common reasons families call. Describing what you have observed to an experienced listener usually brings more clarity in twenty minutes than months of private worry.
"What does it cost to ask?"
Asking costs nothing. A first conversation about your situation and our services carries no charge and no obligation. Questions about programme fees are answered personally and precisely, because they depend on the support a person actually needs.
The simplest question of all
"What happens when we call?" Here is the honest answer: someone listens, some good questions get asked, and you leave the call knowing more than you did. That is the whole first step — and it starts at 9711458868, answered 24/7.
Please note: this article offers general guidance, not medical advice. For your specific situation, speak with our team directly.