There are many voluntary sector organisations in Sheffield providing treatment and support for people with mental heath difficulties. Some people prefer to seek help from an organisation separate from the NHS.

Most, but not all, voluntary sector organisations are self-referral, meaning that you can approach the organisation yourself and do not need a referral from your GP or other worker.

Many voluntary sector organisations provide services which are specialised such as those for specific minority ethnic communities, women only services, advocacy services and supported accommodation. Others are focussed around an activity such as gardening, supported employment and support for carers.

Many organisations have developed innovative ways of working. Some organisations are run by people from the communities they serve and as such, being close to the people who use the service, have a good understanding of their needs and barriers to engagement. Consequently voluntary organisations may be more able to reach people from communities who might otherwise not use mainstream services.

The Help Yourself database is a list of community groups and voluntary sector services in Sheffield.