Almost 200 people use mental health support service in first month
Almost 200 people in Birmingham and Solihull have received support from a confidential round-the-clock mental health service in its first month.
Last month the 24/7 all-age service was launched to help people experiencing anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression, or other mental health challenges.
It is the result of a partnership between Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and Shout, the UK’s first 24/7 text messaging support service, powered by the charity Mental Health Innovations.
People needing help can text ‘Space’ to 85258 and be connected with a trained mental health professional at any time and anywhere.
And, in its first four months, trust bosses said dozens of people have sought support for a range of mental health issues.
Confidentiality is a core principle of the service, the conversations do not appear on phone bills, and it is also designed to be accessible particularly for those who may not feel ready to speak on the phone or in person.
In addition to providing support, texters can be signposted to a range of local mental wellbeing and mental health services, including Talking Therapies, Crisis Cafés, and NHS 111 Option 2.
This service aims to support and reduce pressure on services by offering an alternative route to support – especially for those waiting for further help or seeking early intervention.
A spokesperson for Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust said: “Over the last month, close to 200 people have accessed Birmingham and Solihull’s free, confidential, 24/7 mental health text service by texting the unique keyword ‘Space’ to 85258.
“People are seeking support for a range of mental health issues including low mood, stress and relationships.
“Early feedback indicates that people using the service are doing so because they prefer connecting with someone that doesn’t know them and are more comfortable having a text conversation about their mental health rather than talking to someone face to face or over the phone.”
When someone texts ‘Space’ to 85258 they will receive four automated messages before being connected to one of Shout’s qualified mental health professionals.
Once connected, the mental health professional will listen empathetically, provide support and signpost to local services where appropriate.
The Shout service is free, anonymous, and does not appear on phone bills. Users do not need to register, download an app, or use mobile data.
