Additional round-the-clock mental health support for North Lincs residents

A local NHS Trust has strengthened the support being offered to North Lincolnshire people experiencing mental health issues by introducing a new ‘round the clock’ helpline.

Anyone living in North Lincolnshire who needs to talk to someone about their mental health can now ring Freephone 08081 968442 at any time.

Managed by Grimsby-based Community Interest Company NAViGO, calls are swiftly answered by an experienced mental health practitioner – or a trained Rethink worker - who is able to offer immediate support or signposting the individual to the right service to meet their needs.

Wendy Fisher, from Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH), which provides mental health services for North Lincolnshire residents, said: “We have called on the expertise of our NAViGO colleagues to help bolster the services we provide for local people who need mental health advice and support. They work in partnership with Rethink to provide an all age helpline, which includes children and young people, and are used to working in partnership with our local services. 

“We have agreed pathways so that people who require support from RDaSH services will be directed to us - as well as receiving support directly from the Helpline - or signposted to other appropriate services.

“Since the start of the pandemic we have seen a rise in demand for mental health services in North Lincolnshire. This additional helpline will benefit local people by helping to ensure the NHS can continue providing a fast response to those in need.”

NAViGO clinical lead Vicky Ayres said: “We’ve been operating a successful 24/7 service for some time and our dedicated and experienced team will now be extending that support to the people of North Lincolnshire.

“Now more than ever, mental health problems will be affecting more people – please pick up the phone, reach out for support and know we are here to help you.”

• Please note: This service is for a non-emergency response only. Anyone in need of urgent mental support in a crisis should ring the specialist North Lincolnshire RDaSH team on 0800 015 0211.