2. Help in a crisis
Christmas and New Year can be a very difficult time for some people. Oldham Council wants to ensure those in most need know where to go for help in a crisis. So here’s a list of services and partner community organisations that can help you in an emergency.
Helpline
If you’re worried about your wellbeing, are struggling financially, or need food over Christmas, our helpline is available on the following days:
- Tuesday 24 December- 9am–4pm
- Friday 27 December- 10am–2pm
- Monday 30 December- 10am–2pm
- Tuesday 31 December- 10am–2pm
It opens as usual on Thursday 2 January 2025 at 9am.
- Phone the helpline on 0161 770 7007
Other winter support
Do you need help this winter or want to give something back to your community?
Does your community or voluntary group need a little extra help? The Action Together website has lots of helpful information so you can give or get help this winter.
- Winter support - Action Together
Housing Options
(Housing advice and homelessness)
Closed from 4pm on Tuesday 24 December 2024
Reopens at 9.30am on Thursday 2 January 2025
Online help and advice are available on our website
- Emergency phone number: 0800 988 7061
Let us know about someone sleeping rough
Concerned about someone under 18
If you see someone under 18 sleeping rough please call the police.
- Police general switchboard (24 hours): 101
- Police emergencies (24 hours): 999
Concerned about someone over 18
If you are concerned about someone over the age of 18 that you have seen sleeping rough you can report it on the SteetLink website:
- SteetLink - Connecting people to local services
Real Change
Real Change covers essential costs that help people who are homeless or at risk in our area build lives away from the streets.
- Real Change - website
Mental Health Support
Samaritans
- T: 116 123 (any time, from any phone for free)
- E: jo@samaritans.org (response time 24hrs)
Samaritans
Shout
Text SHOUT for free: to
- 85258 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Shout Childline
- T: 0800 1111 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Childline
You can also contact your local GP or call the NHS on 111.
Utilities
Heating
If you’re a tenant and your heating system breaks down, contact your landlord.
You’ll need to call an emergency heating engineer if you're a homeowner.
Water emergencies
Contact United Utilities if you have a burst pipe or any other water-related emergency.
United Utilities
- T: 0345 672 3723
Paying your bills
Contact your utility provider if you are having problems paying your bills for advice and help.