The Importance Of Asking For Help - Phone Numbers To Call

23rd December 2020

The Highland Council and NHS Highland are reminding Highland residents of the importance of reaching out for help if this is needed over the festive period.

The current time of year can be difficult for many people anyway, and others may have found that their plans for the festive season have changed at the last minute and the chance to see friends or family is now not possible.

The Council and NHS Highland want to emphasise that support is available for people should they be struggling and need someone to talk to.

Leader for the Council, Cllr Margaret Davidson said: "I appreciate that it has been a difficult year for many people and the normal supports that people rely on are, in many cases, not operating. However, it is important for people to know that they are not alone and that a range of services provided by both the public and third sector organisations are available and still operating over the Christmas and New Year period. Please reach out - even if it's just about needing someone to speak to."

Director of Public Health, Dr Tim Allison said: "There are lots of different types of support available. If you or someone you are in contact with are mentally unwell then please contact your GP services or NHS 24 by calling 111 and in the case of an emergency, please call 999. There are also lots of other support services available for people who need someone to talk to through local groups or through local and national helplines. The key message is to get in contact."

If someone is concerned about their own or someone else's mental health, then it is important to contact their GP or to call NHS 24 on 111.

If there is a concern someone is in immediate danger then emergency services should be called on 999.

There is also a range of other helpline support in place for people needing to speak with someone:

Samaritans - 116 123 (calls are free and do not show on a phone bill)
Breathing Space - 0800 83 85 87
Mikey's Line - 07786 207755
Ewen's Room - 0800 689 3317
National Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline - 0800 027 1234
LGBT Helpline Scotland 0300 123 2523
Childline - 0800 1111
CRUSE Bereavement Care Scotland - 0845 600 2227
Should you be concerned about a vulnerable adult, whether for care, welfare or mental health reasons, you can contact the following numbers:

Adult Protection Concern helpline - 0800 902 0042 in office hours and out of office hours or during holiday periods - 0845 769 7284.