Shout’s crisis volunteers to support frontline workers
As part of a new package of wellbeing support for NHS staff announced today, the NHS is working with Shout to ensure that all healthcare workers can access mental health support at all times of the day.
A 24/7 text service will allow NHS staff to simply text FRONTLINE to 85258, from where they will be put in touch with a trained Crisis Volunteer who will speak to them via text.
Shout is a legacy project of the Heads Together campaign which was founded in 2017 after a £3 million investment by The Royal Foundation into digital innovations to support mental health.
The FRONTLINE keyword service from Shout will be open to all frontline care staff fighting COVID-19, and will mean Shout’s crisis volunteers can be there for all those on our frontline, wherever and whenever they need help – including when they are on or finishing shifts in the early hours.
In addition to the text line, the package of new wellbeing services for NHS staff includes:
• a free wellbeing support helpline 0300 131 7000, available from 7.00 am – 11.00 pm seven days a week, providing confidential listening from trained professionals and specialist advice – including coaching, bereavement care, mental health and financial help
• online support, including through Silver Cloud, and free mindfulness apps including Unmind, Headspace Sleepio and Daylight
In the weeks ahead, The Royal Foundation will be working to connect our partners with those who are able to provide practical support to people on the frontline and their families; promoting and supporting the charities that can play a part in helping them and their families with their mental health needs; and playing our part in the national effort to thank and celebrate all those working on the frontline of this crisis.
