Local Health & Support

The Lothian Diabetes Representative Group (LDRG) was started in 2002 and has been active in establishing links between people living and coping with diabetes and the wide variety of NHS healthcare professionals with whom they come in contact. It is a group of people from all walks of life who have diabetes (type 1 and type 2) or family members with diabetes.

Patients can self-refer to Edinburgh CTACS by calling the CTACS patient-focused booking line.You can self-refer for: Doppler (ABPI) testing automated & manual(Clinician referral only) Ear irrigation following preparation Removal of sutures/clips. Wound care all types (except wounds caused by injury who should be seen at the minor injuries assessment service in the first instance.

The Information Station is a one stop shop acting as a source of support, information and sign posting. Lead by NHS Occupational Therapists, input is drawn from health and social care staff, peer support workers, volunteers and key third sector partners. The Information Station offers: Faster self-service access to individuals; Psychological self-help guides and resources; Support groups sign posting; Provide standardised information on conditions and medication, No appointment required.

The Living Warriors Project is an Edinburgh based peer support group for survivors of attempted suicide. Founded and run by people with lived experience. They meet once a month on a Thursday from 7-8.30pm in Edinburgh City Centre."Sessions can include open discussion, self reflective topics and meaningful creative activities. We have an ethos of radical acceptance and openness. It is a safe space where people's individual journeys are understood and respected"

Patients receiving treatment for cancer can now benefit from a national 24 hour cancer treatment helpline.The 24-hour national cancer treatment helpline which will provide a triage assessment to patients who are receiving or have received specific cancer treatment when they feel unwell.

The Mental Health Assessment Service run from the Royal Edinburgh Hospital for acute mental health problems - Patients asking to be seen should telephone rather than drop in.

The Advice Shop is a professional information, advice and advocacy service providing assistance to anyone living in Edinburgh. This service can help you access so that they all the state benefits you are entitled to and to address any difficulties with debt.

It’s good to be prepared for emergencies that can happen at any time, such as severe weather, floods and loss of power. The Scottish Government has a Ready Scotland website that provides a wealth of information about preparing for and dealing with emergencies

HealthandCare.scot is an editorially independent news and information channel for Scotland’s health and social care sector. A reliable place to get objective coverage of the work of health and care services, we provide a single platform for reporting on what’s happening, sharing ideas and providing information about the organisations and people delivering health and care across Scotland.

We Are With You provides free, confidential support to people who have issues with drugs, alcohol or mental health.We work with people on their own goals, whether that’s staying safe and healthy, making small changes or stopping an unwanted habit altogether.

Crossroads Caring Scotland is one of the country's leading voluntary sector providers of support for carers and their families. Established as a charity in Scotland in 1978, we provide support services across Scotland, helping people to live independently at home.