Information from Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board

New 24/7 mental health support text services launched across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent

Anyone across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent can now access 24/7 mental health support by text with the launch of two new free text services across the area.

The text services are delivered by Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (MPFT) and North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust (NSCHT), commissioned by Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board (ICB).

Individuals can text the following numbers to receive support for their mental health at any time of the day or night:

  • For South Staffordshire – 07507 330605 (MPFT).
  • For North Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent – 07312 263117 (NSCHT).

Ben Richards, Senior Responsible Officer for Mental Health, Learning Disability and Autism across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care System, said:

“As part of the NHS Long Term Plan, we’re transforming how mental health care is delivered – making it more accessible, responsive and tailored to individual needs.

“A major milestone was met recently in the launch of NHS 111’s urgent mental health support option, and thanks to significant national funding we are now introducing locally commissioned mental health text services, fully integrated into our mental health pathways. This will give our communities another discreet way to reach out for help – anytime, anywhere.”

Benefits to patients

  • Easy access – You don’t need to speak on the phone or wait for an appointment. You can simply text when you’re in need of mental health support— anytime, anywhere.
  • 24/7 support – The service is available day and night, so you can reach out when you need help the most, including evenings, weekends and holidays.
  • Mental health-focused – The service is tailored to people facing mental health difficulties, ensuring that the support you receive is appropriate, understanding, and compassionate.
  • Discreet and private – Ideal for those who may feel anxious talking on the phone or who need support in a private or public place without drawing attention.
  • Inclusive and equitable – Offers support to people across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, helping to reduce inequalities in accessing mental health care.
  • Integrated with other services – If needed, text responders can help you connect with local services like NHS 111, crisis teams, or other community-based mental health support.

Anyone feeling unsafe, distressed or worried about their mental health can also call NHS 111 and select the mental health option. The text service is not for urgent or emergency support; the NHS advises people to call 999 if there is a serious risk to life.