Helplines Awareness Day
On February 23rd, we recognise the remarkable work of helplines who support others in their most difficult times.
Helplines Awareness Day shines a light on the critical, life-changing support those working in helplines provide for people facing distress, uncertainty and crisis.
Offering more than just information, helplines provide a safe space for people to talk, be heard and receive the support needed, when they need it and in a way which works best for them.
In Scotland, helplines like our National Advice and Support Service or NHS 24 Breathing Space play a key role in helping people through isolation, anxiety, financial worries and overwhelming emotions. They serve as a first step towards support, helping individuals understand their situation, develop coping strategies and access further help.
Helplines to contact
The National Advice and Support Service (0808 8010 515) connects you to advisers who can signpost you to local support that most fits your needs.
Find out more about how this service can help by watching the video below.
Samaritans (116 123) is a 24-hour anonymous service available every day of the year. If you prefer not to speak on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.
Breathing Space (0800 83 85 87) is a free, confidential service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety. The phoneline is available 24 hours at weekends (6pm Friday to 6am Monday), and 6pm to 2am on weekdays (Monday to Thursday).
NHS 24 by dialling 111 if you feel you need to speak with a medical professional but cannot wait for your GP.
the impact of helplines – a story of support
At Change Mental Health, we recognise the impact financial stress can have on your mental health. We provide comprehensive advice and support for those facing challenges related to their money. To get a sense of how we can help, read more about Cameron’s experience.
Cameron reached out to the National Advice and Support Service as the anniversary of his father’s passing approached. His depression, which had been ongoing for years, felt heavier as the date got closer, affecting his sleep, concentration at work and relationship with his wife. He felt isolated and had started using alcohol as a way to cope.
When Cameron emailed the service, one of our Advice and Support Officers listened and gave him space to talk about what he was going through. They reassured him that he wasn’t alone and offered practical support, suggesting services that could help. This included mental health and bereavement support, substance use services and crisis helplines like Breathing Space and Samaritans.
After their conversation, Cameron wrote back:
“I can’t thank you enough for taking the time to listen to me and really hear what I’m going through. It’s such a relief to have someone to talk to honestly about everything.
“Having those crisis service contacts means the world to me, especially with the weekend coming up. Even if I don’t end up using them, just knowing that they are available takes away so much of my anxiety. Thank you for being there for me.”
Cameron’s story is a reminder of how a simple conversation can make a real difference. Having someone to talk to, who listens and offers support without pressure, gave him the reassurance he needed in a difficult moment. Helplines are not just about providing information, they offer comfort, connection and ensure that no one needs to face hard times alone.
Read more about Cameron here.
Get in contact with us today to request flyers that you can put on community notice boards around your local area. By doing this, you will help us to reach more people in need and we can be there to support them on the end of the phone.
Your generous donation helps our team of advisers to be there for people in need across Scotland. Support our National Advice and Support Service today by making a donation. Every penny makes a difference.
If you would like to join in celebrating the brilliant workers at helplines across Scotland or help us support more people with their mental health, sign up for one of our events! Get inspired by some ideas below, organise your own fundraiser or visit the challenge events page to see what else is coming up this year.
- Falkirk Wheel Abseil: Take on the 100ft abseil at the Falkirk Wheel on the 22nd March, pushing your limits while supporting Change Mental Health’s services.
- Kiltwalk: Walk for Change Mental Health in Scotland’s largest mass participation walking event. Take part in either Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee or Edinburgh.
Unsure what other challenge you could take to test yourself and motivate others to support your fundraiser? Contact our incredible team for help!
support
Our National Advice and Support Service can help you and people you care for with mental health concerns and money worries.
We can link and signpost you to relevant local and national support, including our own Change Mental Health services, as well supporting with debt, grants and benefits.
The service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm to 1.30pm). Contact 0808 8010 515, email advice@changemh.org or fill in the form on the service webpage.
For full details about the service, visit the National Advice and Support Service webpage.
