More people in crisis getting help after launch of NHS 111 mental health option in West Yorkshire

On World Mental Health Day (Thursday 10 October 2024) the NHS in Leeds is reminding local people about the help available if they are struggling with their mental health.

Following the launch of NHS 111’s mental health support line earlier this year, calls to the West Yorkshire Helpline have surged and there has been a 38% increase in those presenting with a mental health crisis being seen face-to-face by Leeds and York Partnership NHS Trust’s Crisis Service.

Since May 2024, callers to NHS 111 have been able to select a mental health option, routing them to services including the West Yorkshire Helpline for a range of mental health support in a crisis.

NHS111 is a nationally recognised number, and the new mental health option presents an easier and simpler front door for anyone in the region needing help in a mental health crisis.

The launch of NHS 111 has also led to changes to the way people connect to crisis services provided by Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust – the main provider of adult specialist mental health and learning disability services in Leeds.

With the launch of the NHS 111 mental health service, the Trust has changed its Single Point of Access to make it available only for professional referrals.

Connor Toorish, Clinical Lead for Mental Health, West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, said:

“There are a wide range of mental health support options for people in West Yorkshire, from crisis support for adults to mental health initiatives for young people, talking therapies, third sector and community groups. It can be difficult for people to know where to go first. The introduction of NHS 111 mental health option in West Yorkshire means access to this support got easier for people, with just the 111 number to remember whilst making access easier to the same fantastic services”.

Dr Christian Hosker, Chief Medical Officer at Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“Our crisis mental health services are still there for anyone who needs them. The way people reach the right service for them is now simpler. After choosing from a set of options, people dialling 111 will be connected to someone experienced and trained in providing mental health crisis support. They can also be referred to services across Leeds, including those provided by the NHS according to their needs. This positive change leaves clinicians to focus on helping people with the most acute needs – and we’ve already seen the benefits of this.”

West Yorkshire residents are reminded that the new 111 mental health option isn’t for emergencies and to always call 999 if there is an immediate danger to life.

Page last updated: 10th Oct 2024 10:41am