Mental health support services in West Yorkshire have been streamlined with a new contact number.
From now on, those in need of urgent assistance can phone NHS 111 and select the mental health option, or use the NHS 111 online service.
The change, which came into effect on April 1, replaces the previous 0800 telephone line for the West Yorkshire Mental Health Helpline.
There are no changes to the services available, but the change streamlines access to urgent mental health support for people living in Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds, Barnsley, and Wakefield District.
Anyone who calls the old number will receive a message redirecting them to NHS 111.
It's important to note that this change only impacts the West Yorkshire Mental Health Helpline.
Other crisis lines, such as Bradford First Response, Night OWLS, and Leeds CAMHS Crisis Call Line Team, will not be affected by this shift.
They can still be reached on their respective numbers, but can also be accessed via the NHS 111 service.
The mental health option on the NHS 111 line has been in place since late 2024 and connects callers to trained mental health professionals.
These professionals offer immediate support, advice, and referrals to suitable services, including crisis teams, community mental health services, and voluntary sector support.
The service is available 24/7.
Local NHS trusts, voluntary organisations, and community mental health providers have all contributed to the integration of existing crisis support services with NHS 111.
People of all ages, including children and young people, can use the service, "ensuring," in a spokesperson's words, "that support is available for anyone who needs it."
The spokesperson added: "This new NHS 111 option is designed to provide people with the help they need, when they need it, without having to navigate complex services.
"By ensuring a direct connection to professionals trained and experienced in supporting people in mental health crisis, support is becoming more accessible and effective."
For support, please visit NHS 111 online (https://111.nhs.uk/) or call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.
For more information, please visit https://www.wypartnership.co.uk/our-priorities/mental-health-learning-disability-and-autism/get-help
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