Shout textline now offers mental health help to emergency service workers

The UK's first, free mental health textline is now expanding its support offering to those on the frontline.

Shout, which was launched by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex back in May, will now provide support for emergency responders.

The aim is for the anonymous 24/7 crisis service for people experiencing a "tough time" to add an additional layer of support for the emergency services - on top of the number of existing charities offering support such as Police Care UK and the Fire Fighters Charity.

Shout's announcement came ahead of Prince William's visit to the Fire Fighters Charity headquarters in Devon, where the Prince and Shout volunteers will meet with members from the emergency services community.

The Fire Fighters Charity endorse the move by Shout (PA)

Dr Jill Tolfrey, chief executive of the Fire Fighters Charity, said: "Supporting the mental health and well-being of the fire and rescue services community is central to our ambitions as a charity.

"So we are delighted to support an initiative that complements our own work and shares our desire to make mental health support available and accessible to as many people in need as possible."

How does it work?

Currently, if someone is experiencing a problem, whether that be relationship issues or suicidal thoughts, then they can text Shout to 85258. However, if you're a member of the emergency services community - whether retired or serving, and their family members - can now text BLUELIGHT to 85258.

Once a text has been sent, you will be connected to a trained and supervised volunteer.

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Service director for the National Police Wellbeing Service, Chief Constable Andy Rhodes, added: "We know that there is still a lot of stigma attached to seeking help and that many officers and staff don't feel comfortable seeking help from their own force. "Having this helpline as another option for them to get help if they need it in a time of crisis is vital and very much welcomed."