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Anxiety about around health, employment and money, social isolation and changes in routines and family relationships are some of the many ways a person’s mental health can worsen during the current pandemic.

But there is support in place across Herefordshire to support those who are experiencing distress or anxiety in the wake of the outbreak.

Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, who took over the provision of mental health and learning disability services in the county last month, have launched the helpline to support local residents who are experiencing emotional distress or anxiety as a result of the Covid-19 crisis.

The telephone line, which is in operation 24 hours a day/7 days a week, offers a one-to-one support and advice session with a clinician from the counties community mental health services.

It is open to people of all ages and provides support, advice and signposting to anyone living in the county.

Diane Topham, Community Service Manager at Herefordshire Mental Health and Learning Disability Services said, “In these challenging and unprecedented times, it's normal to experience increased levels of stress, anxiety, low mood or depression. We have setup this helpline to support people who may be struggling to manage their increased levels of distress and to support them to access appropriate services that can help them to better manage these feelings during the outbreak”.

The service can be accessed by phoning 01905 681915 (24 hours, 7 days a week).

The operator will arrange a suitable time for a trained clinician to contact the caller to discuss their worries and provide emotional support and advice.

Where required, the helpline can also support callers to access additional services such as mental health support, social care or housing.

Mental health support available in Herefordshire

Click here to access mental health support in Herefordshire and Worcestershire

• Online resources and self-help support for mental health and coronavirus – www.hacw.nhs.uk/coronavirus-and-mental-wellbeing

• Let’s Talk offers talking therapies to people aged 18 and over, and registered with a GP Herefordshire, who are experiencing mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression - call 0800 073 2200 or www.talk2gether.nhs.uk

• The Samaritans - 116 123 or www.samaritans.org

• Childline (0800 1111) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won’t show up on your phone bill.

• PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is an organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal.

• Mind (0300 123 3393) is a charity providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.