People across Lincolnshire can now access confidential urgent mental health support through a new text and online chat service called ChatHealth. The service offers a discreet and accessible alternative for people who may find phone calls or face‑to‑face contact difficult.
ChatHealth has been developed to support individuals experiencing a mental health crisis and is an extension of the NHS 111 option 2 mental health support provided by the Lincolnshire 111 Mental Health Team. It enables secure two‑way messaging between people seeking help and trained healthcare professionals.
Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with the team aiming to respond to messages within two hours. Anyone needing urgent mental health advice can send a text or start an online chat.
Two dedicated text numbers are available:
- Adults (18+): 07312 263027
- Children and young people (under 18): 07480 635303
To chat online, visit:
- Adults (18+): https://chathealth.nhs.uk/start-a-chat/h/LincsMentalHealth
- Under 18: https://chathealth.nhs.uk/start-a-chat/h/LincsCYPMentalHealth
After sending a message, users will receive an automated reply confirming receipt. Demographic details are requested, but people can choose to remain anonymous.
ChatHealth is available to anyone experiencing emotional distress or mental health concerns, including low mood, anxiety, overwhelming feelings, self‑care difficulties, or thoughts of self‑harm, and to support anyone worried about a loved one.
The service cannot provide prescriptions, medication reviews, diagnoses, face‑to‑face assessments, hospital admissions, welfare checks, or GP referrals. People already supported by a mental health team should continue to contact their usual service during office hours.
This service is free, however text messages may be charged at the network’s standard rate. Check with the mobile provider for details.
For immediate physical danger or life‑threatening emergencies, people should continue to call 999 or attend A&E.
ChatHealth is delivered by Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. For more information, visit www.chathealth.nhs.uk.
