A new countywide mental health support service, offering free text message assistance around the clock, has been launched in Northamptonshire. Individuals in need can connect with trained volunteers by texting “IMATTER” to 85258.
The initiative, known as SHOUT, is a collaborative effort involving a charity, two local councils, and the county’s integrated care board (ICB). This service aims to address issues such as anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
West Northamptonshire Council stated that the text-based conversation aims to help individuals find a calmer state of mind and develop a plan to move forward. Additionally, the service will provide information on further local support options. Notably, texts sent to SHOUT will not appear on phone bills, and all communications will remain confidential unless there are safety concerns.
Dr. Janine Elson, chief medical officer of Northamptonshire’s ICB, emphasized the importance of timely access to mental health support as a key priority. “The SHOUT service complements the existing resources we have in place to promote health and wellbeing,” she said, encouraging anyone experiencing mental health challenges to utilize the service.
Gill Mercer, executive member for health and wellbeing at North Northamptonshire Council, highlighted the significance of this initiative during the current cost of living crisis, noting its potential to make crisis support more accessible to everyone.
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