Mental Health Service Update
New 24/7 Mental Health Text Service for Birmingham and Solihull
New Service – Supporting Mental Health
A new mental health text service has been launched on the 4th August. The service can
be used by staff as well as members of the public.
The all-age service is free, confidential and operates 24/7 – people just need to
text ‘Space’ to 85258 to start a conversation with a mental health professional.
The service is a partnership between Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS
Foundation Trust and Shout, the UK’s first 24/7 text messaging support service,
powered by the charity Mental Health Innovations.
Anyone experiencing anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression, or other mental health
challenges can text ‘Space’ to 85258 to connect with a trained mental health
professional – anytime, anywhere. The service is designed to be discreet and
accessible, particularly for those who may not feel ready to speak on the phone or in
person.
In addition to providing in-the-moment support, texters can be signposted to a range of
local mental wellbeing and mental health services, including Talking Therapies, Crisis
Cafés, and NHS 111 Option 2.
This new digital service aims to support and reduce pressure on services by offering an
alternative route to support—especially for those waiting for further help or seeking
early intervention.
“It also reflects our commitment to delivering the NHS Long Term
Plan by empowering people to take control of their mental
wellbeing and mental health early and reducing the risk of crisis.”
Roísìn Fallon-Williams, Chief Executive of Birmingham and
Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust