Scarborough Survivors launch telephone helpline for those with mental health needs

The charity, which has been forced to close its resource centre and Crisis Cafe due to the Covid-19 outbreak, has moved quickly to put measures in place.

Andrea Woolcott, Chief Executive Officer, said: “There is so much uncertainty for people who have anxiety and OCD as it is, let alone in this situation. Normally the resource centre and crisis cafe are open seven days a week.”

The charity is now offering telephone support from 9.30am-1am seven days a week, with dedicated Whitby support between 9am and 4pm on a Wednesday.

Ms Woolcott, who has worked with the organisation for over a decade, said: “We are available for anyone aged 16 or over who is socially isolated, or is struggling and just wants someone to talk to, they don’t have to be a current member of Scarborough Survivors.

Telephone support will be available seven days a week on the following numbers:

07516 916290 - available Monday to Sunday, 9am to 7.30pm and Monday and Tuesday nights, 7.30pm to 1am

07395 824526 - available Wednesday to Sunday, 7.30pm to 1.00am and Thursday, 9.30am to 7.30pm

07562 974101 - available Wednesday to Sunday, 7.30pm to 1.00am

07759 638733 - For support in Whitby available Wednesday, 9am – 4pm

A note on the Facebook page reads: “If we don't answer please bear with us, if you text us wanting us to ring, please make sure you add your name.

“If you require immediate help please consider phoning 999, The Samaritans on 116 123 (you do not have to feel suicidal to speak to them) or the local out-of-hours mental health helpline 0333 000 0309. These are all free to ring even from a mobile.”