New text message mental health service launched in Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire
ChatHealth offers 24/7 confidential support to people who need help
People in Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire can now get confidential mental health support around the clock through a new NHS text messaging service.
Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust has launched ChatHealth, a free-to-access service designed to give people immediate support by text, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Anyone experiencing mental health difficulties, including low mood, anxiety, stress, loneliness, panic attacks, relationship problems, self-harm or suicidal thoughts, can text 07312 263 127 to start a confidential conversation.
After sending an initial message, users receive an automatic confirmation before a member of the team aims to respond within an hour.
The service is available throughout the day and night, including weekends and bank holidays.
The trust says the text-only service offers an alternative for people who may find it difficult to talk on the phone or attend an appointment in person, particularly during a mental health crisis.
Dr Rob Bale, Chief Operating Officer for Mental Health and Learning Disability at Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: "ChatHealth provides a vital safety net for people when they need support most. Through ChatHealth, we aim to help individuals who reach out to de-escalate distress, develop safety plans, and feel safer than they did when they sent their first text.
"It's a different offer to existing services – it's a dedicated crisis text service that makes support more immediate and accessible. Where needed, people can also be referred on for face-to-face support.
"Ultimately, this is about providing the best possible support for the communities we serve, ensuring care is more joined-up and available whenever people need it."
The new service is intended to complement existing mental health support available across Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.