Help in a Crisis 0800 731 2864

Croydon Inpatient Services
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Help in a Crisis 0800 731 2864

Help in a crisis: Where to go and who to call

If you are concerned about an immediate risk of harm – either to yourself or someone else – then phone 999. Here are some of the other ways you can get help if you are experiencing a mental health crisis.

The 24-hour Mental Health Helpline for South East London

South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) launched a 24-hour free telephone line to support anyone in Lambeth, Southwark, Lewisham and Croydon experiencing mental distress.

The helpline is a significant step forward in helping people who are going through a mental health crisis and will be the first 24/7 telephone service for the trust.

Why is there a 24hr helpline?

There are currently a range of different helpline numbers across the boroughs SLaM serve. The new helpline will provide a more coordinated response and easier access to support. The support service has been developed in line with a Crisis Concordat, is part of Croydon, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark borough action plans and is jointly funded by their four clinical commissioning groups (CCGs).

What is the helpline number?

The freephone helpline number is 0800 731 2864, which is the same number that takes patients through to the patient advice and liaison service (PALS). Callers can choose to speak to the helpline (operating 24 hours) or select a different option for PALS (operating from 9am-5pm).

Who is the helpline for?

The helpline is for anyone who is experiencing mental health distress and for those who care for them. It is for those who are living in the boroughs of Lambeth, Southwark, Lewisham and Croydon and need help. It is for current patients and for those who have never used SLaM services.

What support is available?

The helpline provides advice on mental health and medication, and help with accessing information and services. Calls will be answered by a mental health nurse who will support the caller, explore the reasons for their call and identify what help can be given, both at the time and for the future.

Who runs the helpline?

SLaM’s nurses running the helpline will be working with both our current information and advice service (PALS)

About SLaM

SLaM provides the widest range of mental health services in the UK. They also provide substance misuse services for people who are addicted to drugs and alcohol. SLaM provide inpatient care for around 5,300 people each year and we treat more than 45,000 patients in the community in Lambeth, Southwark, Lewisham and Croydon. They also provide specialist services to people from across the country. For more information see www.slam.nhs.uk