The partnership is initially for a period of three months during which time the charity will provide extra staff to support the Trust’s mental health access helpline for residents of South Staffordshire. The helpline is available seven days a week, 24 hours a day and SSNMH staff will provide support mainly out of office hours, when the helpline sees most demand.
Jennie Collier, Managing Director of MPFT’s services in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent said, “In such unprecedented times for NHS services, it’s important that we work together with established agencies such as SSNMH. Their team have a wealth of experience in representing and supporting sufferers of mental ill health and the increased capacity that they will provide on the helpline will ensure that the people of South Staffordshire are supported as quickly and effectively as possible.”
John McKiernan, the Chair of SSNMH said, “The Covid-19 pandemic has had a big impact on the mental health of many. The mental health access helpline is a vital first point of contact for those who require assistance and we’re pleased to be working in partnership with MPFT to provide additional support and guidance to those experiencing mental ill health in South Staffordshire.”
The urgent mental health helpline is open 24/7 and provides telephone support, advice and triage to people of all ages. For those living in South Staffordshire the Freephone number is: 0808 196 3002.