Helpline – 0800 689 3317

We have a confidential telephone helpline and a text-based support service for people who need to talk. They run between –

5 pm to 10 pm Monday to Friday

12 pm to 10 pm Saturday and Sunday

The helpline number is 0800 689 3317

The textline number is 07537 431637

We also run a telephone friend service – a volunteer will call you at a time and on a day that suits. Please call the helpline number for further information.

Our helpline has been running since January 2018 and can be accessed by anyone affected by mental health issues.  Outwith opening hours, messages can be left and will be responded to as quickly as possible.

Our ‘Telephone Friend’ service is run and staffed by trained, locally based volunteers who can relate to the issues of social isolation and loneliness experienced by many individuals in our rural communities.  It also provides elements of a befriending service, for those who simply require a regular ‘friendly chat’, or a timely reminder of a coming health appointment. We helpline provides a supportive, discreet and beneficial service for those who have nowhere else to turn, as well as being there with first-line emergency support for anyone in crisis.

The helpline has the backing of community healthcare professionals, who welcomed an alternative form of support, particularly for those challenged by ongoing chronic well-being issues. Callers facing a mental health crisis which cannot be resolved by talking to the helpline volunteer, are advised to seek urgent professional counselling, or in dire situations, to call the emergency services.

We are only able to provide this helpline service with support of a grant from Lottery Awards for All.