Overview
In this guide, you will learn:
- how to search for local services using the internet
- the types of services you can find online
- how to recognise trusted websites
- where to go for more detailed help if you need it
What do we mean by “local services”?
Local services are things in your area that can help you with everyday life. This might include:
- your local council
- GP surgeries and NHS services
- libraries
- housing or benefits support
- jobs and training opportunities
- community groups and activities
How to find local services
- Open your web browser (for example, Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome)
- Click into the search bar at the top
- Type a brief description of what you are looking for, followed by your area
- Then press the Enter key to see your results (the enter key is on the far right of your keyboard, and often contains a large arrow pointing left)
Example search text:
- “council services Somerset”
- “GP near me”
- “help with housing Somerset”
Choosing the right result
When you search, you will see an AI tool and then a list of websites. In the list of websites look for:
- official websites (for example, council or NHS websites)
- familiar names or brands you recognise
- results near the top of the list
Using local services online
Once you have found the right website, you can often:
- find contact details (phone numbers, contact forms or email)
- check opening times and facilities
- apply for services or support
- book appointments
- order and pay for services online
- read information and guidance
Not everything needs to be done online, many services still offer phone or in-person support.
Tips for staying safe
- check that the website looks official and uses an official URL (for example, gov.uk, somerset.gov.uk or nhs.uk)
- be careful about sharing your personal information such as name, address, telephone number and especially bank details
- if something does not feel right, stop and double-check, especially if you are paying for something online
- ask someone you trust if you are unsure
Council and essential services
Below are a list of helpful links to make finding essential services easier. Use the search bar or visit the “contact us” section on each website if you cannot find exactly what you need.
General council services
- Somerset Council (main website): For information about bins, council tax, housing, benefits, and social care
- Somerset Council – Find out your bin collection days
- Somerset Council – Report a problem on the road
Health and wellbeing
- NHS – Find a GP
- NHS – Find a dentist
- NHS – Find a pharmacy
- NHS 111 online (for non-emergency help)
- Healthy Somerset: For general health advice and Somerset specific support services
- Smokefree Somerset: For help stopping smoking
- Somerset Domestic Abuse service: For advice and support about domestic abuse
- Somerset Council – Care and support for adults: For information about Adult Social Care
- Somerset Council – Children, families and education: For information about schools, Somerset’s SEND Local Offer and Children’s Social Care
Cost of living and support
- Somerset Council – Help with the cost of living
- Somerset Council – Benefits and financial support information
- Somerset Council – Food banks and Local Pantry Network
Jobs, skills and learning
- Somerset Skills and Learning: Information and support for getting access to education
- Somerset Council – Employment and skills information: Information and links to employment support services
- Somerset Council jobs: Find jobs working for Somerset Council
- GOV.UK – Find a job: Find full or part time jobs across England, Scotland and Wales
Housing and council tax
Where to go next
If you would like step-by-step support with learning the skills to confidently search and use online services, you can use these free guides on the Learn My Way website:
Please note: You need to create an account to access the guides, but it is free to sign up. This is a beginner-friendly website with guides that walk you through finding information and services online.
You can also:
- ask a friend or family member
- visit your local library for in-person support
- check if your local library offers digital help sessions