ReferKent - for organisations who support Kent residents

ReferKent is an online network of groups and services. It aims to strengthen referrals across Kent for adults and families, and:

• allow users to refer to organisations directly
• help those who are experiencing hardship or need support.

The system is:

• free for voluntary sector organisations who support Kent or Medway residents
• easy to use, secure and in line with GDPR standards
• supported by our Helping Hands Scheme and Medway Council.

ReferKent makes it easy to send and track referrals, ensuring residents receive appropriate support.

ReferKent was launched to mitigate the action of signposting, which puts the pressure on individuals to make contact for support. With ReferKent, residents can be referred directly to the most appropriate organisation. Since its launch, over 350 organisations and teams have joined the system to make and receive referrals, bridging the gap between residents and the support they need.

If you’re not already on board, read below to find out more.

Watch our video explaining the ReferKent service and why you should register.

Using the ReferKent system

How to sign up

1. Apply to join ReferKent as an agency.
2. We'll send you the documents yo need to join.
3. Sign the documents and return them to us.
4. We will set up and activate your account.
5. We'll then invite you to an online training session.
6. You're ready to make referrals.

Making referrals

Making a referral is quick, easy, and secure. It's only for organisations and agencies to refer their clients, residents can't self-refer. Referrals can only be made for adults (18 years and over).

Make a referral

Referrals only take a few minutes to complete, and you can track the progress of your referrals at any time.

The system follows UK GDPR law and keeps individuals' information safe and secure. It only asks for essential information.

The ReferKent team keep track of referrals to ensure you get a response to your referral within 3 working days.

Receiving referrals

You will get an email notification when you receive a referral. You then log into your ReferKent account to view the referral.

The system follows UK GDPR law. It keeps individuals’ information safe. You will only get essential information for the referral.

You should respond to the referral in 3 working days.

If for any reason you need to take a break from receiving referrals, please contact us and we can pause your account for an agreed period.

Benefits of the ReferKent Network

When you become a ReferKent user, you will have access to lots of helpful advice and information. This includes:

• regular networking meetings to hear from ReferKent users and other support organisations.
• newsletter updates showcasing support and information available across the county.
• spotlight sessions where organisations come to promote and provide more information on the services they offer.

Professional spotlight sessions

We hold monthly spotlight sessions to highlight ReferKent organisations.

The sessions help professionals to:

• promote the help they offer to residents
• learn about other organisations
• ask questions about referrals.

All sessions are open to any professional interested in ReferKent. They are also open to those already using it.

To keep up to date with our latest news and events and to find out about upcoming spotlight sessions join our mailing list and follow us on LinkedIn.

Organisations working with us

Here are some of the organisations we're working with:

If you are interested in working with ReferKent or for all enquiries related to ReferKent, email referkent@kent.gov.uk for further information.