FamilyLine

First line support for every family and any family issue

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, worried or upset about any aspect of your family life, whether here in the present or something from your past, FamilyLine is here for you. We offer free emotional support, information and guidance on family relationships – including siblings – conflict, parenting, caring, financial worries and more.

Open Monday-Friday, 9am to 9pm. Callers must be 18+.

0808 802 6666
Text: 07537 404 282
Online chat

Contacting us out of hours


Our helpline opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm. Outside these hours, text FAMILYACTION to 85258, to access our free 24/7 crisis support service delivered in partnership with Shout. This is also available on weekends and bank holidays.

Please note: over Christmas we will operate reduced hours:

24th December – 9am-5pm
25th December – CLOSED
26th December – CLOSED
27th December – 9am – 5pm
30th December – 9am – 9pm
31st December – 9am -5pm
1st January – CLOSED

How FamilyLine works

We all need a listening ear sometimes. Whether it’s something in the past, or something happening now, if you’re 18 or over and you’re worried, anxious, stressed, overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to about any family issue, FamilyLine is here.

(If you’re under 18 years old, we’d recommend you call Childline or look at the resources on Young Minds.)

You can call, text, email or webchat FamilyLine. One of our trained operators will listen and respond to you, offering support, information or guidance, depending on your needs. If we can’t help, we’ll try to make a direct link with someone who can – that might be our virtual befriending or short-term counselling service, Family Action services or signposting to other organisations.

People call about all sorts of family issues including conflict at home, relationship issues, sibling violence, past trauma, parenting concerns, financial worries and for support when caring for children with additional needs. These are just a few examples – we’re here for every family and any family issue. So, please, if you feel you need some support – get in touch.

man and two boys sitting on a wall outside a house

The person I spoke to listened and heard what I was saying, helping me to manage my overwhelming feelings. She helped me to think of possibilities and an interaction with my son when he came home.

FamilyLine aims to offer:

  • a mix of immediate and long-term support
  • practical information and guidance
  • emotional and listening support
  • help to understand and access relevant services and information
  • one-to-one befriending or counselling support where needed
  • referrals to projects or services across England and Wales where needed