Community Support
At High Down, we believe in fostering a caring and supportive community. Our dedicated Learning Mentors, Caroline Battlebury and Kirsty Ireland are here to provide a listening ear or helping hand to support our families in need:
- A chance to just have an informal chat about how things are going
- A safe space to discuss any worries or issues you may be facing at home
- A chance to receive advice, support and signposts to external agencies and resources
Community Support for Families
There are a range of local organisations and services available to support families in Portishead and across North Somerset. If you or your family need help with food, finances, energy costs, mental health or general advice, the organisations below may be able to help.
Food Support
Clevedon District Foodbank – Portishead
The foodbank provides emergency food support to local people experiencing financial difficulty. A referral voucher is required.
📍 1st Portishead Scout Hut, Station Road, Portishead, BS20 7DB
🕐 Fridays, 12pm–2pm
Visit the Clevedon District Foodbank website
Portishead Community Fridge
The Community Fridge redistributes surplus food to local residents. It is open to everyone and does not require a referral.
Find out more about the Portishead Community Fridge
Cost of Living & Financial Support
North Somerset Council – Crisis and Resilience Fund
Support may be available for households experiencing financial hardship or an unexpected financial crisis. Help can include essential costs such as food, energy and transport.
North Somerset Council also provides information about benefits, free school meals, Council Tax support and other financial assistance.
North Somerset Council – Benefits and Support
Energy Advice
Citizens Advice North Somerset
Citizens Advice can provide guidance on energy bills, managing costs, benefits and financial difficulties.
Citizens Advice – Energy Advice
Local advice is also available from Citizens Advice North Somerset in Portishead, at The Folk Hall, High Street.
Find out more about Citizens Advice North Somerset
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Mind
Mind provides information, advice and support for people experiencing mental health difficulties. You can use their website to find local Mind services and support available in your area.
North Somerset Wellbeing
North Somerset Wellbeing offers free workshops, courses and activities for adults living in North Somerset, covering areas such as anxiety, low mood, stress, self-esteem and mindfulness.
Financial Advice and Support
Westcountry Savings & Loans
Westcountry Savings & Loans is a local, not-for-profit credit union based in Portishead. It offers savings accounts and affordable loans, alongside financial wellbeing information and support.
📍 Kestrel Court, Harbour Road, Portishead, BS20 7AN
Visit Westcountry Savings & Loans
General Advice & Support
Citizens Advice North Somerset
Citizens Advice offers free, confidential advice on issues including benefits, debt, housing, employment, energy and family finances.
0808 278 7973
Citizens Advice North Somerset
Portishead Town Council – Community Support
The Portishead Town Council website provides information about local organisations, wellbeing services and community groups supporting residents.
Portishead Community Information
If you are unsure which service can help, Citizens Advice North Somerset is a good place to start. They can help you understand what support may be available and signpost you to appropriate local services.