The NHS Devon Partnership Logo. The logo reads NHS Devon Partnership NHS Trust. TALKWORKS main logo that reads TALKWORKS improving your mental and physical wellbeing.

Supporting someone through TALKWORKS

A guide for carers and loved ones

TALKWORKS is a free, confidential NHS service in Devon offering talking therapies for people experiencing common mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression and stress.

“You are a carer if you provide unpaid support for family or friends who need help because they are ill, frail, disabled or have a mental health or substance misuse problem.” - Devon Carers

You don’t have to live with the person you provide care for – the above definition can include anyone who plays a role in supporting individuals who use our services, including wider social networks. In summary, a carer is someone who helps another person with tasks they would be unable to do by themselves.

For many people, caring for a family member or friend does not have a name; it is simply something you do. Whether you identify yourself formally as a carer or not, if someone you care about is receiving support through TALKWORKS, this page offers information on what to expect, as well as practical advice to help you to support them, and yourself, along the way. Scroll down to find out more.

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What to expect from TALKWORKS

When someone starts therapy with TALKWORKS there are some key things to be aware of:

Confidentiality is key

TALKWORKS therapists work directly with the person receiving support. This means they generally can’t share any personal details without consent, but with permission they can talk to you in more general terms or involve you more directly in therapy.

A range of possible options

TALKWORKS offers evidence based therapies based on guidance from the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE). Depending on someone’s difficulties, this might include:

  • Guided self-help (typically 30-minute sessions every 2–3 weeks)
  • Group interventions (typically 2-hour sessions over 6 weeks)
  • Higher intensity one-to-one therapy (typically weekly, up to 60 minutes, occasionally up to 90 minutes)

These can be delivered in a range of different ways including in person, online via video call, by telephone or via an online programme.

TALKWORKS therapy offerings aren’t suitable for everyone or every problem. Sometimes we might need to signpost people elsewhere to access an appropriate service to their needs. More information about this can be found on our needs we can and cannot meet page.

It can be challenging

Whilst the goal of therapy is to make things better, therapy can be challenging and sometimes things can feel worse before they start to feel better.

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How you can support the person that you care for

Many carers tell us they feel unsure about how to help. It’s ok not to have all the answers.

Everyone is different

For some, the more you are involved the more helpful they will find it, for others, therapy can be a very private experience and they may not wish to share details in which case the most helpful thing you can do is to respect this.

However much or little is shared with you, here are some practical and emotional ways you can support:

  • Ask how you can help – rather than guessing, invite them to let you know what kind of support feels helpful. Involving carers with consent is encouraged. A simple “How can I support you?” can open up helpful conversations.
  • Listen without judgment – just being there and showing you care can mean a lot. Avoid phrases like “snap out of it” or “just be positive.” Try “I’m here for you” or “That sounds tough – how can I support you?”
  • Be patient – recovery is not always linear. There may be ups and downs.
  • Celebrate small wins – recognising progress, no matter how small, can boost confidence.
  • Encourage regular attendance – gently support them in sticking to appointments and completing any between-session tasks.
  • Familiarise yourself with the types of talking therapies offered by the NHS – these include therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), CBT guided self-help, eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness, and counselling for depression. Understanding these therapies can help you support your loved one's progress.

Co-therapist role – while you’re not expected to act as a therapist, if your loved one is happy for you to be more involved, it can sometimes be helpful for you to join a session or sessions. This can help you to understand the therapy in greater detail and consider how you can help in more specific ways.

Did you know that well-meaning behaviours like constant reassurance or taking over tasks may sometimes unintentionally maintain difficulties such as anxiety. It’s okay to ask your loved one or their therapist how best to support.

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WHAT TO DO If you are worried about someone including about their safety

If you are worried about your loved one:

You can speak to our team with their consent. If you would like to speak to someone, please call our TALKWORKS administration team on 0300 555 3344 and we will be happy to advise.

If you are concerned about someone’s immediate safety or wellbeing, in a crisis or emergency:

📞 Call NHS 111 (available 24/7 – select mental health option)
📞 Call 999 if someone is seriously ill, injured or there is immediate risk to life
📞 You can also attend your nearest Emergency Department in a crisis or emergency

Looking after yourself as a carer

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of your own wellbeing is just as important here are some simple ideas for looking after yourself, and links to further resources for carers are included in the subsequent section:

  • Know your limits – You’re offering valuable support, but you’re not expected to be their therapist or to “fix” anything. It’s okay to set boundaries around what you feel able to offer and to ask for help if you need it too.
  • Stay connected – Share your feelings with a friend, professional, or support group.
  • Take breaks – Rest and recharge when you need to. Supporting someone else can be challenging. Regular time for yourself can prevent burnout.
  • Prioritise your own wellbeing – Just as your loved one is working on their mental health, you should also check in on your own wellbeing. If you’re feeling anxious or stressed, consider talking to a GP or seeking additional support or therapy for yourself.

Resources for carers

Being a carer can be rewarding, but it can also be emotionally and physically demanding. There are services available to support you:

  • Access talking therapies – If you’re struggling, TALKWORKS is here for you too. You can self-refer to us by completing the online self-referral form on our website or by calling 0300 555 3344
  • Devon Partnership Trust’s main website resources includes links to a number of helpful documents and other resources
  • Devon Carers – Offers information, support groups, and a helpline: devoncarers.org.uk | 03456 434 435
  • Torbay Carers - can provide a carers passport, information for carers and a range of groups to support carers living in Torbay
  • Carers UK – National charity providing advice and support | 0808 808 7777
  • Mind (Mental Health Support) – Offers information for carers and supporters including caring for yourself whilst supporting someone who self-harms or has suicidal thoughts
  • NHS 111 – 24/7 advice outside normal hours
  • You might also find it helpful to speak to your GP if you are experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood or difficulties with sleep
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