From October 1, people in north Cumbria will have a simpler way to access urgent mental health support.
NHS mental health crisis lines are being streamlined, with all local 0800 numbers replaced by a single, national point of contact NHS 111.
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis should call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.
This free, 24/7 service connects callers to trained mental health advisors, who will listen and help find the right support.
What’s changing?
- Local 0800 crisis numbers will be closed down on October 1, with people being encouraged to call NHS 111 instead.
- A new single text number for British Sign Language (BSL) users will replace several existing local text lines: 07860 064 775
Crisis teams and services are not changing – there is just a different number to contact them on.
The numbers in Cumbria being retired 0800 652 2865 and 077595 656 226.
Why the change?
The NHS 111 mental health option has now been successfully running for over a year.
The NHS said the change aimed to make it easier for people to know where to turn in a crisis, without needing to remember different numbers based on their location.
Support for d/Deaf BSL Users
From October 1 BSL users, and other people with communication difficulties living in north Cumbria, can text 07860 064 775 for crisis support.
Deaf people can also access NHS 111 via SignVideo, or by calling 18001 111 using the Relay UK app or a textphone.
What happens when you call?
Calls are answered by experienced mental health advisors, supervised by clinicians such as mental health nurses. If needed, callers may be passed to a clinician for further assessment.
Need help now?
If you or someone you know is struggling to cope, don’t wait. Call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option. If someone is physically hurt or in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E.
For more information, visit the CNTW NHS website
