Millions of patients experiencing a mental health crisis can now benefit from support through NHS 111.

The 24/7 mental health crisis support service has been rolling out across the East of England in recent years but is now available across the whole of the country through one single phone line, ensuring that anyone in mental health crisis can receive help at any time, regardless of their location, with the goal of providing timely support and reducing the need for A&E visits.

People of all ages who are in crisis, including children, or concerned family and loved ones on their behalf can call 111, select the mental health option and speak to a trained mental health professional.

NHS staff will guide callers through support, such as organising face-to-face community support or access to specific services.

Previously, many local health systems had their own separate phone lines, which were fast-tracked during the Covid-19 pandemic.

It is expected that this will significantly improve the response times and outcomes for individuals experiencing mental health crisis. However, for people who need support at A&E, if there is a risk to life, every emergency department in England now has a mental health liaison team available to offer specialist care.

NHS Talking Therapy services are also available for people who need help with other conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder and PTSD. Anyone can refer themselves online via nhs.uk or by contacting their GP.

The NHS continues to advise people to call 999 if there is a serious risk to life.

Helen Hardy, Regional Head of Mental Health at NHS England – East of England, said: “We know more people than ever are struggling with their mental health, so it’s crucial that, when needed, crisis support is easy and straightforward to access.

“We’ve been rolling out NHS 111 support for people with mental health issues across the East in recent years, so it’s fantastic that this free, universal package of support through one phone line is now fully established across the region and the rest of the country.

“So, if you or someone you know needs urgent mental health support, please call 111, and select the mental health option.”

A full list of mental health support options is available via the NHS website. The service is also suitable for deaf people, with tailored services available via the NHS 111 website.

The development of these services is complementing free listening services such as The Samaritans or SHOUT text service.

The NHS has invested an extra £2.3 billion into expanding mental health services, and this latest innovation will help patients in crisis get directed to the support they need quickly.