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Public and voluntary sector organisations across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are coming together to raise awareness of the wide range of mental health support available to residents ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week 2026.

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, together with Herefordshire Council, Worcestershire County Council and Community First are working in partnership to ensure people understand the breadth of services available locally – from early help and preventative support through to urgent care for those in crisis. 

Support available across the two counties includes confidential text-based support, group therapy and courses, as well as the urgent mental health helpline and Safe Havens for individuals who need immediate crisis support.

For children and young people, support is available through digital wellbeing platforms such as Kooth or Lumi Nova. Wellbeing and Emotional Support Teams in Schools (WEST) also work with children and young people across the two counties, providing early help and guidance for those feeling anxious, worried or low.

The campaign highlights that help is available at every stage of a person’s mental health journey and encourages people to learn more about the support available for themselves and their loved ones.

This includes community-based activities that that help people stay well by connecting with others, learning new skills and staying active. Residents are encouraged to explore Worcestershire’s Community Services Directory and Herefordshire’s Talk Community Directory to discover local opportunities and support.

David Thomas, Associate Director, Primary Care and Community Mental Health Services at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, said
“Across Herefordshire and Worcestershire, we offer a wide range of services – from early help and preventative support through to urgent care when people need it most.

“If you or someone you care about is struggling, please remember that you’re not alone. Help is available, and we encourage you to reach out to access support.” 

Prof Lisa McNally, Director of Public Health at Worcestershire County Council, said
"This week, we want to shine a light on activities and resources that can help Worcestershire residents to stay well and seek support for their mental wellbeing when they need it.  We encourage everyone to take a moment to explore what’s out there, whether for themselves or for someone they care about. 

"Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 is a valuable opportunity to share this message. I’m incredibly grateful to colleagues across health services, including the NHS and voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations, who have come together to highlight the wide range of support available locally. This includes everything from early help and preventative support through to urgent care for those in crisis."

Zoe Clifford, Director of Public Health at Herefordshire Council said
“Mental Health Awareness Week highlights our collective responsibility across organisations and communities to improve mental health. We’re asking people to join us in taking action to strengthen support networks, reduce inequalities, and create environments where everyone can thrive to support good mental health.”  

Mental Health Awareness Week takes place between 11^th – 17^th May and provides an opportunity to start conversations, reduce stigma and remind people that they are not alone.  

By taking action and working together, local partners hope to make it easier for residents to find the right support, at the right time, in a way that works for them. Anyone needing support is encouraged to explore the services available locally and to reach out if they are struggling.

For more information visit: Mental Health Awareness Week 2026

Support for people of all ages in Herefordshire and Worcestershire: 

• NHS111  — Whether you feel your mental health problems have become much worse or are experiencing problems for the first time, you may need help quickly. Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option for their 24/7 helpline. You can also find out more by visiting the website here: Urgent help and support for your mental and physical health.
• Herefordshire and Worcestershire Talking Therapies   —  Available for people aged 16 and over, they offer online therapy, support groups, and one-to-one counselling. You can self-refer online or call the team at 0300 013 57 27. 
• Shout text service - If you just need to talk, any time of day or night, Shout offers confidential advice from trained volunteers. You can talk about anything that's troubling you, no matter how difficult. Text "REACHOUT" to 85258. 
• Worcestershire Community Services Directory – A platform for all residents in Worcestershire to find helpful information about registered health and wellbeing groups, services, and activities locally and across the county. 
• Herefordshire Talk Community Directory – Information connecting people to services, groups, information and events in Herefordshire. 

For children and young people: 

• Melo - For young people aged 25 and under, Melo offers therapy, workshops, and online counselling for mental health support. Referrals can be made via their website, telephone, or WhatsApp. Contact Melo Hereford on 01432 800809 or Worcester on 01905 673549.  
• Kooth  — a helpful website offering online counselling and support through text, e-mail or chatting on the forum. Kooth is suitable for ages 10-18 years. 
• Lumi Nova  — a personalised digital therapeutic game for childhood anxiety, co-designed with children, parents, NHS clinicians and experts in mental health, human-centred design and ethical gaming technology. It empowers young people aged 7 to 12 years to overcome mental health challenges and create life-long skills using immersive experiences that are self-guided, interactive and fun.  Sign up for free here. 
• Worcestershire ChatHealth —  a service where 11-19 years olds can text 07507331750 to speak to their School Health Nurse for confidential advice and support around a variety of issues, including bullying, emotional health, relationship problems, alcohol and drugs. 
• Herefordshire school nurse support - The Single Point of Access (SPOA) provides children and young people aged 5-19 and their families with advice from the school nursing service. The Single Point of Access can provide advice and support over the phone, and you can also be signposted to other appropriate services.