Initiation of a specialized 24/7 helpline for mental health in Wales 2023
New NHS hotline for mental health emergencies. Today’s debut of NHS 111’s 24/7 line allows access via option two. Physically disabled persons call this number.
The new line can be utilized for urgent mental health issues for individuals or families. Ministers believe it would replace emergency room visits and police calls.
Since November 2022, over 15,000 calls have been received. The Welsh Government hopes to reduce emergency department and police demand.
Since its launch, ministers claim most calls have received self-management guidance or been transferred to local third sector organisations, with a handful referred to urgent mental health care facilities.
Pressing 2 connects callers to a local health board mental health team member. Needs evaluation and telephone-based distress reduction will follow. Referrals to mental health services, self-care, and other help are possible.
The new 24/7 phone line is for mental health emergencies.
Most callers are advised on self-management or linked to local third sector organisations, but a few are transferred to urgent mental health care providers. In emergencies, call 999.
Lynne Neagle, Deputy Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, met the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board team at St Cadoc’s Hospital in Caerleon last week. Lynne Neagle stated: “We are committed to improving mental health and access to mental health services.
“The implementation of the ‘111 press 2’ service across Wales will transform how the NHS responds to urgent mental health issues, and it can be accessed by anyone, at any time, from anywhere in Wales.
“We know that sometimes people need to speak to a mental health professional to talk through their issues and get the right support, whether it’s NHS mental health services, primary care, local voluntary services, or self-care advice.
“The Welsh Government wants to make mental health services easier and this service is part of a wider package that includes self-referral to online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.”
The Welsh Government gave health boards £6m to create this service and offer 24/7 coverage. Welsh Ambulance Service NHS 111 Wales Head of Service Pete Brown said:
In a mental health crisis, it might be difficult to find the correct healthcare counsel.
Calling 111 and tapping option two will simplify all of that and link you directly to a local mental health team member.
Even without credit, landlines and mobiles can call the number for free. Calling 111 for mental health care may help individuals avoid emergency intervention.