Hear from Tower Hamlets’ Crisis Pathway Service Manager, Melanie King, about the introduction of urgent mental health crisis support via NHS 111 in North East London (NEL):

What is the new urgent mental health crisis service, and when will it be introduced?
Our new mental health crisis service – referred to as NHS 111, option 2 – is a Freephone telephone line to support people facing mental health crises. It will be launching from the 2nd April 2024.

Why is NHS 111, option 2 being introduced?
The reason it is being introduced is to create one, single telephone number that can be used nationally by all members of the public across the country. When dialling 111, users will be prompted to select ‘2’ on their keypad – creating a seamless way to be supported through mental health crises.

Will calls be answered by mental health professionals in the local area?
Based in Tower Hamlets, 111, option 2 call handlers will answer calls from across NEL, including areas covered by the North East London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT). We have been working in partnership with NELFT to recruit staff for the service with extensive local knowledge, and will also be providing a comprehensive induction programme for all new employees.

Who can call NHS 111, option 2?
Anybody based in NEL who is feeling overwhelmed and believes their mental health is deteriorating can call the number and select option 2.

What additional help is available for those who may need it across East London?
At ELFT, Crisis Cafés and Together Cafés are available across our three East London boroughs for those struggling with their mental health and feel the need to speak with somebody. These are open on weekday evenings, weekends and bank holidays, and relevant links with more details can be found below for each borough:

• Walk-in Crisis Café - City & Hackney
• Newham Together Café
• Tower Hamlets Together Café

We also provide additional 24/7 emergency crisis care phone lines. As a Trust, we have fully trained professionals who are available to assess whether face-to-face assessments are required, and decisions can be made whether this should be on-site or at home.

• City & Hackney – 0800 073 0006
• Newham – 0800 073 0066
• Tower Hamlets – 0800 073 0003