Over 70,000 calls made to Northamptonshire's 24/7 mental health number in its first year

Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (NHFT) have received over 70,000 calls since launching their 24/7 mental health support number in collaboration with mental health charity, Mind, in March 2020.

Almost 4,000 calls were made to mental health number in the first month alone - from March 16 to April 15 2020. The service now receives an average of 7,098 calls a month.

It was designed to be the only number residents need to call for mental health support in the county. When a call is made, a trained member of staff finds the right support for the individual whether this is from the voluntary and community sector of the NHS or advice over the telephone.

The number is 0800 448 0828 and anyone in Northamptonshire is welcome to call it, whether they are currently receiving mental health treatment or not. Existing service users can use the number as an alternative way to contact the service already supporting them or to speak to someone out of hours.

Director of Mental Health at NHFT, Anne Rackham, said: “Looking back on the first year of the Mental Health Number, we could not have predicted how integral this single point of access would become to mental health services in Northamptonshire.

“Working alongside our partners, Mind, our team provides vital mental health support to more than 300 calls each day, working around the clock to ensure that anyone who is facing a crisis can call and receive the support they need. We may not know how things might change over the next 12 months but please know that if you are struggling with your mental health – we are here to help, any time, any day.”

Healthcare professionals - such as GPs - can also call the number to refer their patients to services for support.

Central Services Director for Northamptonshire Mind, Nigel Mansfield. said: “These have been challenging times for many people in our communities and for organisations which have been supporting the mental health needs of thousands of people across the county.

“The first year of the 24/7 mental health number has seen more than 70,000 calls, which perfectly illustrates how crucial this single access point has been in supporting people with their mental health. Along with our partners at NHFT, we would urge anyone who needs our support to get in touch – you are not alone.”

NHFT and Mind continue to work in collaboration to provide mental health support to people across Northamptonshire. They operate drop-in cafes for anyone who is facing a crisis and have extended opening times in locations across the county with trained workers on hand to offer confidential advice and support.

Visit thementalhealthnumber.me for more information.