Although we hope that all our colleagues have a peaceful and joyful Christmas, we know that for many people, the festive season may be stressful, lonely, or frightening. There is support and a listening ear available if you want one.
There are several options to speak to or text someone if you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, have had a tough day or expecting a rough experience, or if you have a lot on your mind that you’d like to talk through with someone. Trained advisers can help with signposting and confidential listening.
There is a dedicated staff support line operated by the Samaritans which is open from 7:00am – 11:00pm, seven days a week. Telephone 0800 069 6222.
Alternatively, you can text FRONTLINE to 85258 for support 24/7 via text.
Our Occupational Health provider can also be reached 24/7 on 0800 882 4102.
The Wellbeing Hub will also be open over Christmas, with some variation to their normal opening hours. They are closed on 27, 28 and 29 Dec and 3 Jan, but you can use their online form to get a response on 30, 31 Dec and 4 Jan. Their contact number is 0191 223 2030.
For those who are experiencing grief or bereavement there is a confidential bereavement support line, operated by Hospice UK and free to access 8am – 8pm, 7 days a week: 0300 303 4434.
For those concerned with alcohol or substance misuse, either their own or someone else’s, there is support available. Drinkline is the national alcohol helpline. Call 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am to 8pm, weekends 11am to 4pm).
Frank is a helpline for anyone concerned about drug or solvent misuse for anyone at any age: Helpline: 0300 123 6600 (24Hr) SMS: 8211.
For those who are at risk of or experiencing domestic abuse, the freephone, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0808 2000 247.
Men can call Men’s Advice Line on 0808 8010 327 Monday and Wednesday, 9am to 8pm, and Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9am to 5pm or ManKind on 0182 3334 244 (Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm).
If you identify as LGBT+ you can call Galop on 0800 999 5428 for emotional and practical support.
In an emergency, call 999.
A further list of support available for our colleagues can be found at https://www.england.nhs.uk/supporting-our-nhs-people/support-now/ General advice for looking after your mental health over the Christmas period can be found here https://thriveatcntw.co.uk/looking-after-yourself-at-christmas/ or via our self help guides.