Support for people affected by the Grenfell Tower fire

There is a range of support available for anyone affected by the Grenfell Tower fire in West London.

  • Physical injuries

Hospitals across London have been treating those injured. If you are experiencing or are concerned about physical problems, seek advice and help from one of the range of NHS services available.

  • Air quality and smoke exposure

People who have been close to the scene and exposed to smoke from the fire may have experienced irritation to the lining of their air passages, their skin and their eyes, and respiratory systems including coughing and wheezing, breathlessness, phlegm production and chest pain.

People who have concerns about their symptoms should seek medical advice or call NHS 111.

  • Mental health support

If you are worried about your mental health as a result of this event please see this NHS trauma leaflet (PDF, 50.2KB, 2 pages) It outlines common reactions, simple suggestions for how to cope and ways in which children may be supported to cope during the next few days.

Many symptoms may be a normal response to a terrible experience and will reduce over time. If your symptoms are severe and you are in distress or they last longer than 4 weeks, please see the information below.

If you are under 18, or concerned about someone who is under 18, please look on [NHS Choices](http://www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/Child%20and%20adolescent%20mental%20health%20services%20(CAMHS)/LocationSearch/2157) for your local children and young people’s mental health service.

  • Continuing support for victims, witnesses and those affected

There are mental health treatments available through the NHS to help people deal with the effects of very distressing events.

Many people do not go on to develop mental health conditions and will recover naturally, however if your symptoms are severe or continue beyond 4 weeks, this may indicate the need for support from a mental health professional.

The information on the NHS Choices website will outline possible symptoms and describe how to seek help. Please visit your GP who will be able to provide advice and refer you on to the appropriate local NHS mental health service for assessment and treatment. Children and young people may also access NHS help by visiting their GP, and schools may be able to provide support or refer them to local services.

  • Bereavement Support

Cruse Bereavement Care is a national charity for bereaved people in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Cruse offers support to adults, young people and children when someone dies, whatever the circumstances. They offer face-to-face, telephone, email and website support.

Their free phone helpline is 0808 808 1677 and is open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 5pm (excluding bank holidays), with extended hours to 8pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. You can also email them on helpline@cruse.org.uk. More information on all their services is available at www.cruse.org.uk.

Source: gov.uk