Mental Health & Wellbeing

There is increasing awareness around the importance of our mental health and wellbeing, and the pandemic really shone a spotlight on that. Support for people in distress is vital, and equally important are the preventative and early intervention measures we can take. Simple things like connecting with other people, giving something to our communities, or finding a routine of daily movement and fresh air are so important.

Making support accessible to people in Aberdeenshire is key, and AVA helps to give our mental health & wellbeing community groups a voice, and the support they need to thrive.

If groups that support the mental health & wellbeing of their community would like to receive support from AVA in this area, please fill out the Support Request Form here, selecting the relevant option in the 'type of support' section.

Please note that at AVA we are unable to directly support people with their mental health & wellbeing, however if you or someone you know needs immediate help, here are some places you can contact:

Call the Samaritans on 116 123 for free and confidential support. Lines are open 24 hours, 365 days a year. You can also email them

Breathing Space offers free and confidential support for over 16s in Scotland. The phoneline is open during nights and weekends. Call 0800 83 85 87 Monday to Thursday 6pm – 2am and Friday 6pm – Monday 6am.

Call NHS24 on 111 for urgent care advice and mental health support day or night.

Childline offers free and confidential support for children and young people. Call them on 0800 1111 and lines are open 24 hours, 365 days.