Mental health support by text message rolled out

The new service is available at all times without a referral

A new mental health support service via text message has been launched across Shropshire.

Midlands Partnership Foundation NHS Trust (MPFT) has partnered with the Shout service, which is accessible by texting STW to 85258.

Health bosses stressed it was in addition to more traditional ways of accessing NHS mental health care.

Cathy Riley from MPFT said: "We are committed to enabling people of all ages to access mental health support when they need it, in a way that's most comfortable and convenient for them, and this new text service offers an additional way to get help."

The service operates 24 hours a day without the need for an appointment or referral, and Ms Riley said it would appeal to people who preferred messaging to talking, or had hearing or speech impediments which made phone or in-person appointments difficult.

Text responders can signpost users to other services like NHS 111, crisis teams and other community-based mental health support.

Dr Rachel Gallyot, interim chief medical officer for NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, added: "It complements our existing services and reflects our commitment to making mental health care more responsive, inclusive and tailored to individual needs."

Shout is run by the charity Mental Health Innovations, and says it deals with about 2,000 conversations a day.