Sift

Sift

Non-Profit Organization

“Sift's listening services offer free, compassionate and confidential support over phone and text. We are here to help people in the United Kingdom who may be experiencing emotional distress related to self-harm. When you reach out to us you will talk with one of our trained volunteers who are experienced in how to help people in your situation. They will listen to you, help you explore your story and feelings, and support you in any decisions you choose to make. You can also visit our website for access to our self-help resource library. ”

About Us

We are the UK's leading self-harm support charity. We sift out the stigma around self-harm and offer compassionate, evidence-based services. For 40 years we’ve been at the forefront of non-judgemental, trauma-informed self-harm support, shaped by people who’ve been there. We’re willing to talk about the things that others aren’t, and meet people where they are.

Approach

Our Listening Services are underpinned by a trauma-informed, non-judgemental and compassionate approach to discussing self-harm. - You’ll speak with one of our specialist-trained volunteers. - It’s a safe, confidential space to share your experiences and emotions around self-harm, and anything else you wish to talk about. - We can share information and resources with you if you want us to. - We won’t judge or tell you what to do. - We are here to support anyone of any age or gender affected by self-harm.
Contact Sift

Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.

Basic Information

Languages:

English

Fees:

Free service

In-person & Online

Services

Helpline: 0808 800 8088 - Open Monday & Thursday 6-9pm Text support: 07537 432 444 - Open Monday to Friday 6-9pm Email support: tess@sift.org.uk We offer free Listening Support via our helpline, text and email services to anyone affected by self-harm. We sometimes offer additional support such as support groups and other activities, please see our website for details. Our peer support service is run by people who've been there, and is available via referral from an NHS health professional. Our website features a self-help resource library: www.sift.org.uk/get-information/ We also offer training for other organisations; Drawing on over 40 years specialist experience, our self-harm awareness training offers a clear, trauma-informed introduction to understanding self-harm and how to respond with confidence and compassion. Sessions are carefully tailored to your requirements and explore the many forms self-harm can take and the signs that someone may be struggling. Rooted in lived experience and trauma-informed practice, our training helps you understand why people self-harm, how to create psychologically safe environments, and what truly supportive responses look like. Participants learn how to offer safe, effective support using evidence-informed approaches, including grounding techniques, validation, and practical safety planning.

Services Offered:

  • Information / Resource Service

    Services that connect individuals with mental health resources, community support, or practical help.

  • Research

    Scientific investigation into mental health, therapy effectiveness, or psychological processes, contributing to evidence-based clinical practice.

  • Support Groups

    Facilitated groups of people with shared experiences who meet regularly to listen, share, and support one another.

  • Training

    Professional development programmes for mental health practitioners, including workshops, courses, and continuing education.

Works With:

  • All ages
  • Individuals
  • Groups
  • Organisations

Staff Employed:

  • Mental Health Services Providers

    A professional who delivers mental health support services, which may include counselling, case management, or crisis intervention.

Area of Expertise

Organisation Focus Areas:

  • Self-Harm

    The deliberate act of hurting oneself, such as cutting or burning, as a way to cope with overwhelming emotional pain or distress.

    Learn more about Self-Harm

Service Areas

SIFT

In-person & Online

Bristol, England

United Kingdom

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Bristol, United Kingdom