Support line available to forestry sector employees, public

NEW GLASGOW, N.S. — A confidential, toll-free line is now open to help anyone in need of emotional support as a result of the pending closure of the Northern Pulp mill.

Government is partnering with Morneau Shepell to deliver the service.

People can call the free support line at 1-866-885-6540. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“The impact of this situation reaches beyond those directly employed in the forestry sector and it’s vitally important that support is available to all those who need it,” said Premier Stephen McNeil. “This dedicated line is one place people can turn to for support.”

The province says those who call the line will receive professional counselling support and/ or a referral to resources in their community.

“Through our partnership with the Province of Nova Scotia, we are offering free support to all individuals affected by the announced closure,” said Stephen Liptrap, president and CEO of Morneau Shepell. “The skilled individuals working in our Canadian Care Access Centres have extensive experience in responding to community situations such as this and fully appreciate the importance of working with community organizations and resources to bring the best solutions to those impacted during this difficult time.”

In addition to the emotional support line, on Dec. 24 a tollfree line (1-888-315-0110) opened for individuals with immediate needs and questions. To date, more than 200 calls have been answered. This line will remain open to continue to provide information tailored to individual needs including emergency assistance funding and employment and training opportunities.