Backing NHS ‘111 press 2’ initiative for access to urgent mental health support

Backing NHS ‘111 press 2’ initiative for access to urgent mental health support

Jayne is supporting a new phone line for people across Wales who require urgent mental health guidance. Following, Deputy Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Lynne Neagle’s, recent announcement of the new ‘111 press 2’ initiative.  

The NHS ‘111 press option 2’ for mental health is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all ages. People can use this number if they have an urgent mental health concern themselves or about someone they know. 

By providing access to a mental health professional, without the need for a GP referral, it can help support people to manage a mental health crisis and in many cases be an alternative to attending emergency departments or calling the police. 

 
The service can be accessed by calling NHS 111 and selecting ‘option 2’. Callers will be transferred to a dedicated member of a mental health team in their local health board area. 

It includes an assessment of needs and telephoned based intervention to reduce distress. Where appropriate individuals can be referred to mental health services, given self-care advice or signposted to other support. 

The service has been rolled out across Wales since November last year and has so far received more than 15,000 calls. The majority of callers have had their problems resolved through advice on self-management or been referred to local third sector groups, with a minority of callers referred to urgent mental health care services. 

Speaking after the launch of the service, Jayne Bryant MS said: “It’s very positive that the ‘111 press 2’ initiative is now available across Wales. This service is extremely beneficial to anyone who is experiencing an urgent mental health concern.”

“Everyone should have access to quality mental health care, and this service will be vital in helping people manage their mental health.”

“Feedback from the people of Gwent has shown how valued this service will be to our community, and I am very happy that  the people of Newport will now have better access to quality mental health care.” 

“I want to encourage anyone who needs this support to call 111 for free, select option 2 and speak to a member of this dedicated team.”

Dr Chris O’Connor, Divisional Director of Mental Health and Learning Disabilities at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, said: “We have now been providing the service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in Gwent since March and local people have told us how much they have valued being able to pick up the phone and speak to a trained mental health practitioner in times of need.”

“I would urge anyone who needs urgent assistance for a mental health issue, or anyone who is concerned about a friend or family member, to call 111 (Press 2) and speak to someone who is there to listen, understand the situation, and help you access the right help and support.” 

The Welsh Government has provided £6m to support health boards to implement this service and achieve 24/7 coverage. 

Shane Mills, a Clinical Director of the NHS National Commissioning Unit and the national lead for the ‘111 press 2’ service said: “When people contact ‘111 press 2’ for support they will be listened to and supported by compassionate professionals. The local knowledge of these professionals will allow them to provide support to the person that is tailored to their need and local area. Health boards in Wales have worked extremely hard to set up and deliver this service in two years.” 

Pete Brown, Head of Service for NHS 111 Wales at the Welsh Ambulance Service, which hosts the 111 service, said: “It can be hard knowing where to turn for the right healthcare advice, especially when you or your loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis.”

“Calling 111 and pressing option two will simplify all of that and connect you straight to a dedicated member of a mental health team in your local area.”

“The number is free to call from a landline or mobile, even if you have no credit left.”

“Calling 111 for mental health support will hopefully help people to manage their crisis before it escalates and requires emergency intervention.” 

For more information, visit: https://www.gov.wales/nhs-111-press-2-big-step-forward-access-urgent-mental-health-support