Mental health line free of charge

AN NHS mental health crisis line for Halton residents is now free.

North West Boroughs Healthcare (NWBH) said the 0800 051 1508 number provides support 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all ages including children and young people.

A spokeswoman for the trust said calls to the previous number will be diverted but will still be charged.

John Heritage, NWBH’s chief operating officer and deputy chief executive, said: “We recognise that these challenging times are affecting a lot of people’s mental wellbeing.

“We are committed to responding to people’s needs and our dedicated 24-seven mental health crisis lines offer local, specialised support in a timely, person-centred and safe way.

“Now that these are free to call, it will make accessing the necessary support in times of crisis even easier.”

Dr Claire Bullen-Foster, NWBH assistant clinical director for mental health implementation said: “Our crisis lines aim to help children, young people and adults who need urgent mental health support because they are experiencing emotional distress and are struggling to cope. We also take calls from family members, carers or anyone who is concerned that someone they know is experiencing a mental health crisis.

“When someone calls the crisis line, they will speak with a mental health professional who will provide advice and guidance and who will work with the caller to plan how they can manage the situation and their feelings.

“The crisis lines are manned by mental health professionals who have the expertise to support people in crisis as well as having local knowledge about the health, social and voluntary services and trusted online resources that can provide support beyond the immediate crisis.”