Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is reminding local communities of the mental wellbeing support available to them this winter.

The Trust’s aims to reach those who may be struggling this festive season, and to offer advice on how to support loved ones who might be in need.

While the festive period can be a time of fun, it is also common for people to find things difficult. This year even more so, as we adjust to a ‘new normal’ after an incredibly difficult two years.

Marsha Foster, Acting Chief Executive said: “Mental health problems can affect anyone at any time, and after the year we’ve had it’s understandable for people to be struggling.

“During the festive period, there is a lot of pressure on people and it is often easy to neglect your own personal wellbeing.

“We want people to know that no matter how negative a situation is, things can get better and we want to highlight where Black Country communities can go to get the support they need.”

Throughout December, the Trust will be promoting key services and providing wellbeing tips shared on the Trust’s social media feeds – search for ‘Black Country NHS’ on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

If you need urgent mental health support, please contact the Black Country 24/7 helpline by freephone 0800 008 6516 or text 07860 025 6156. Alternatively, advise on urgent help can be found at https://www.blackcountryhealthcare.nhs.uk/contact-us/help-crisis

If you or another person have been harmed or are at immediate risk, you may require an emergency response; contact 999 and ask for the relevant service.