Mental health support is available to those who need it this Christmas

Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust are urging people to take care of each other and access support when needed this festive period.

CWP chief executive Tim Welch said:

“This period is a wonderful time for many – with celebrations between families and friends in full swing. However, it is also a time to try and show great compassion and to support each other through hard times.

“We know that for some people, this time of year can be very challenging. You are not alone. Our aim is to improve the lives of everyone in our community and a wide range of mental health support is available. Please do reach out if you or a loved one need help.”

There are a number of expert support services that are available to those who are struggling:

• Talking Therapies services –– offer support for issues such as depression and anxiety. West and Central Cheshire Talking Therapies provide services for residents of Cheshire West, Central Cheshire and South Cheshire. NHS Wirral Talking Therapies is available for Wirral residents. NHS East Cheshire Talking Therapies is available for Cheshire East residents.
• Crisis Cafes -  Café 71 is based on St Anne Street in Chester, Crewcial is available on Partridge Close in Crewe and in Macclesfield there is the Weston Hub is based at the Weston Centre in Macclesfield. Companeros is based in the heart of Birkenhead on Price Street. Crisis Cafes provide safe spaces for people aged 18 and over struggling with emotional distress. They offer a welcoming environment for people to connect with others who are experiencing similar problems.  
• The Shout text messaging service is available for anyone who would rather not speak to someone face-to-face or pick up the phone. Offering total privacy, and available 24/7, it is operated by trained volunteers, who will provide free and confidential support. Text 'BLUE' to 85258 to start a conversation. 
• For some people if your mental health gets worse and you feel you are unable to cope, this is a mental health crisis. It is important to access support quickly. The CWP urgent mental health crisis line supports people to access the help they need and is here to help 24 hours of the day, 7 days a week, including Christmas Day. Call 0800 145 6485. 
• More information is available on the Trust website here: www.cwp.nhs.uk/crisis

Tim continues:

“On behalf of the Trust, I would like to send warm festive wishes to everyone in our community. As ever, I would also like to say a massive thank you to our staff - especially those who may have to work during the holidays to ensure services remain open to those who need them. I am proud of every one of my colleagues who continue to go the extra mile.

“We are here for anyone who requires assistance over the festive period - so if you feel you like you need help – please do find the right support for you.”

CWP is a Foundation Trust that provides health and care services for local people in partnership with other organisations. Our services include mental health and learning disabilities, community physical health and all-age disability care. We have services across Cheshire and Wirral as well as Trafford, Warrington, Bolton, Halton, Liverpool and Sefton.

CWP was rated as being 'Outstanding' for caring  by the Care Quality Commission in our most recent inspection and shortlisted for Mental Health Provider of the Year in 2019 at the Health Service Journal Awards.

For the latest opportunities and vacancies at CWP visit:

www.cwp.nhs.uk/careers