New crisis text service launches to provide mental health support to people across Hertfordshire
A new Crisis Text Support Service has launched across Hertfordshire, in a bid to provide people with mental health support.
Funded by the National Health Service, the channel aims to provide free confidential support via SMS, WhatsApp and online chat, and operates 24/7.
The service is designed to offer an alternative for people who feel more comfortable communicating by text message, rather than on the phone or in person.
It is available to children, young people and adults, and is entirely staffed by registered health and care professionals.
As well as people in Hertfordshire, the service is also available to anyone living in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Luton, Milton Keynes, Norfolk, Peterborough and Suffolk.
It has been commissioned by the National Health Service’s Central East, Norfolk and Suffolk and NHS Essex Integrated Care Boards, and is delivered by NXG Thrive.
Executive medical director for the NHS Norfolk and Suffolk Integrated Care Board Dr Andrew Rochford said: “The launch of the East of England Mental Health Crisis Text Service gives people another way to access mental health support when they need it most.
“The service is designed to complement existing NHS mental health services, including crisis lines and local support available across the region, helping to ensure people can access the right support in the right way.
“We know that reaching out for help takes courage. For many people, especially younger people, sending a message can feel far less daunting than making a phone call or speaking face-to-face.
“That's why we're pleased to offer a service that meets people where they are and allows them to seek help in a way that feels comfortable to them.
“With no minimum age and support available around the clock, we hope this service will make it easier for more children, young people and adults to reach out early and access the support they need.”
You can access support by texting the word SOS to 80899, sending a WhatsApp message to 0800 884 0655 or through this Webchat link.