Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust has launched ChatHealth – a 24/7 service offering immediate access to advice and support for people experiencing a range of mental health challenges.

The service provides a simple and discreet way for people to seek help with issues such as low mood, loneliness, relationship difficulties, panic attacks, anxiety, stress, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.

How the service works

• Text 07312 263 127 to start a conversation
• A confirmation message is sent immediately
• The team aims to respond within one hour
• The service operates 24 hours a day, including weekends and bank holidays

ChatHealth is entirely text-based, offering an accessible alternative to traditional services and enabling people to reach out in moments of crisis when speaking on the phone or attending in person may feel difficult.

Dr Rob Bale, Oxford Health’s Chief Operating Officer for Mental Health and Learning Disability said: “ChatHealth provides a vital safety net for people when they need support most. Through ChatHealth, we aim to help individuals who reach out to de-escalate distress, develop safety plans, and feel safer than they did when they sent their first text.

“It is a different offer to existing services – it’s a dedicated crisis text service that makes support more immediate and accessible. Where needed, people can also be referred on for face-to-face support.

“Ultimately, this is about providing the best possible support for the communities we serve, ensuring care is more joined-up and available whenever people need it.”

The introduction of ChatHealth strengthens local mental health support by offering a flexible and responsive way for people to access help, complementing existing services across the region. Texts sent will be charged at the senders’ network’s normal rate.