New 24/7 mental health crisis text service launched in Lincolnshire
ChatHealth provides confidential support via text and online chat
Residents of Lincolnshire can now access confidential urgent mental health support through the newly launched text and online chat service, ChatHealth.
Expanding mental health crisis care in the county, ChatHealth is an NHS England secure service, supplementing the existing urgent care helpline available through NHS 111 Option 2, offered by Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.
Recognising the need for alternative communication methods, ChatHealth is designed for those uncomfortable with phone calls or face-to-face interactions.
It provides a discreet and accessible way for individuals to seek support.
Delivered by trained mental health professionals, ChatHealth caters to individuals in crisis or experiencing mental health challenges, offering emotional support, risk assessment, safety planning, and signposting to further services as required.
Urgent mental health advice and assistance are accessible via text message or the ChatHealth online platform.
The service facilitates communication through two dedicated text lines: one for adults (over 18) at 07312 263027 and another for children and young people (under 18) at 07480 635303.
Accessibility is 24/7, designed for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress, or those concerned about friends or family.
Lee Wing, Director of Operations at Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, emphasised the importance of the new service: “Introducing ChatHealth is an important step in making urgent mental health support even more accessible for people across Lincolnshire.”
Wing noted the initiative considers the comfort of those in distress, offering an alternative to phone calls: “Our priority is ensuring that anyone experiencing a mental health crisis, or is concerned about someone else, can access timely support in a way that works best for them.”
The service complements Lincolnshire's existing mental health resources, including the Mental Health Urgent Assessment Centre at the Peter Hodgkinson Centre, Community Wellbeing Hubs, and Night Light Cafés operating countywide.
Standard network charges apply for messages not covered by free texts within existing network contracts.
For further information, contact the LPFT Communications Team at 01522 309194 or [email protected] .
For details on all urgent mental health care options, visit www.lpft.nhs.uk/need-help-now .
Preventative support resources, including Wellbeing Hubs and Night Light Cafés, are available at www.haylincolnhsire.co.uk .