Local NHS trust highlights support on offer for World Mental Health Day

Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CWP) is raising awareness of local support available this World Mental Health Day.

The global awareness event takes place on Sunday 10 October and is everyone’s opportunity to acknowledge the issues around mental health and take time to reflect on how we look after each other’s emotional wellbeing, as well as our own.  

CWP interim chief executive, Tim Welch, said: “This Sunday is World Mental Health Day. I feel strongly that a key part of my role is encouraging everyone to look after their mental health, especially after the events of the last 18 months, by finding an approach that works for you and helps you boost your mood, sleep better, and manage stress and anxiety.” 

In Cheshire, there are number of ways people can access support if they need help with their mental health.  

CWP’s urgent mental health crisis line is available 24/7 on freephone 0800 145 6485. When someone's mental health deteriorates quickly and severely, they may be experiencing a mental health crisis. If this is the case, it’s important to get help quickly, and CWP’s crisis line is here to help people of all ages access the support they need in a mental health crisis.   

If someone is feeling anxious or stressed and feels they need support – the local Shout text messaging service is available. Residents of Cheshire can text the word “Blue” to 85258 to start a text conversation with a trained volunteer who will provide free, confidential support. The service is open 24/7 and can signpost people to relevant local support if needed.  

In Chester, Café 71 is open to anyone aged 18 or over who feels they are experiencing a mental health crisis or is in emotional distress. It offers a welcoming environment to visitors and a safe space to connect with others experiencing similar issues. It’s open from 10am to 12am (midnight) and can be contacted on 01244 393139. Café 71 is located on: 71-77 St Anne Street, Chester, CH1 3HT.  

IAPT (psychological therapy) services are also available across Cheshire for those age 18 and over with symptoms of anxiety or depression. IAPT services use talking therapies to help people change how they feel by changing the way they think. To find your local IAPT service, please visit the NHS website at:

www.nhs.uk/mental-health  

Tim continues: “There are a wide range of options available for those who feel they need support or are concerned about somebody they know. What is vitally important is that those who feel they need support do reach out. Help is available and you are not alone.  

We are also using the opportunity to take part in a number of events locally, so please do keep an eye out on our social media channels to find out more.”