A new mental health crisis centre for Stockport that was unable to open due to social distancing guidance has announced the launch of an interim telephone-based service.
Open Door, a safe haven for people having a mental health crisis, was due to open in Stockport town centre on 1 April.
Instead, national adult health and social care charity Making Space has announced details of a 24/7 helpline that can provide rapid access to ongoing phone-based mental health support. As it is a brand new service, there is currently no waiting list. The free service is open to any resident of Stockport aged 18+.
Follow up appointments, with level 3 trained counsellors, will be offered via telephone, Whatsapp video call or Facebook Messenger video call. They will be available from 10am-8pm seven days a week.
Liz Butler, peripatetic service manager, Making Space, said: “Stockport citizens aged 18 and above can now access the Open Door 24/7 helpline. It is for people who may be struggling to cope, feeling low, anxious, stressed, or be experiencing extreme emotional distress.
“Although the physical Open Door safe haven in the town centre will not be opening at present, a video/telephone appointment based service will be on offer for those who need it.
“Professionals, family members and carers can also call this number for guidance.
“Contacting the helpline can give a feeling of relief, wellbeing and peace of mind. We won’t judge, and our service is confidential unless the caller poses a risk to themselves
or others.
or others.
“You do not need to be referred to the service, and you do not need to have a formal mental health diagnosis in order to access support.”
The service is not suitable for anyone requiring urgent medical treatment or someone who is acutely unwell and is not a replacement for specialist crisis services.
Open Door was commissioned by Stockport CCG after extensive review and research of the current population needs. The CCG’s Mental Health Investment Plan identified access and crisis as key themes and approved additional investment to develop the new mental health crisis pathway.
The helpline is operated by Mental Health Matters and the follow up support is provided by Making Space.
Why have you not published the phone contact number in this informative artical?
Hi Bryan,
We were not given the number I am afraid
The number for the 24 hour helpline is 0800 138 7276
Thanks Jane