Mental health support over the festive season

A local mental health NHS Trust are encouraging people to take care of each other and access support when needed during this festive period.

Tim Welch, Chief Executive at Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said: 

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

“We know that for some, this season can be very challenging. Please remember, 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. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you or a loved one need help.”

There are a number of support services available for those who are struggling:

Local Mental Health Support:

Crisis Cafés – safe spaces for people aged 18 and over experiencing emotional distress. These provide welcoming environments where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges. All locations are open 365 days a year, including Christmas Day:

• Café 71: St Anne Street, Chester – 10am-10pm.
• Crewecial: Partridge Close, Crewe, and Weston Hub, Macclesfield – 1pm-10pm.
• Weston Hub: Weston Centre, Macclesfield – 8am-8pm.
• Companeros: Price Street, Birkenhead – 10am-10pm.

Urgent Mental Health Crisis Line:

If your mental health worsens and you feel unable to cope, this service provides immediate support. Available 24/7, including Christmas Day. Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option. This is open to everyone, including young people.

Shout text messaging service

This is available 24/7 for those who prefer not to speak face-to-face or by phone. Operated by trained volunteers, this free and confidential service provides support via text. Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 to start a conversation.

Talking Therapies services – These provide support for issues such as depression and anxiety:

• West and Central Cheshire Talking Therapies: available for residents of Cheshire West, Central Cheshire, and South Cheshire.
• NHS Wirral Talking Therapies: available for Wirral residents.
• NHS East Cheshire Talking Therapies: available for Cheshire East residents.

More information can be found on the CWP website: 

www.cwp.nhs.uk/crisis.

National Mental Health Support:

• Samaritans – Offering 24/7 support, 365 days a year. Call 116 123 for free.
• CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – Dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention. Their helpline is open daily from 5pm to midnight: 0800 58 58 58.
• National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK – Provides listening support and information for anyone having thoughts of suicide, including friends, family, and carers. Call 0800 689 5652.

Tim added: 

“On behalf of the Trust, I would like to send warm festive wishes to everyone in our community. I also want to express my gratitude to our incredible staff – especially those working over the holidays to ensure our services remain open to those who need them. I’m so proud of my colleagues who continue to go the extra mile.

“We are here for anyone who needs support this festive season. If you feel like you need help, please do reach out and find the right support for you.”